If comfortable and long-lasting birth control is the objective, an IUD may just be the ideal solution. An IUD can last for 3-12 years, depending on the type chosen. Our experienced providers at Women’s Health Group in Chicago, Illinois, can help patients select the right IUD for their birth control and family planning needs.
An Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a long-term birth control device that's placed in the uterus. There are two general options in IUDs: copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs.
Copper IUDs were the first type of IUDs introduced, and they're the longest lasting. This type of IUD uses a small copper coil to repel sperm, which in turn prevents pregnancy.
Hormone IUDs prevent pregnancy by preventing egg release from the ovaries. Additionally, the hormones can cause a thickening of the cervical mucus, which makes it difficult for sperm to get to the ovaries.
Dr. Awad does the IUD implantation process at Women’s Health Group. The IUD implantation is an outpatient procedure that takes only a few minutes in most cases.
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during IUD implantation, and you can resume your routine right away if you wish. It's possible that you may have some minor soreness for a few hours after the implantation, but this goes away quickly.
A copper IUD prevents pregnancy for up to 12 years, while a hormone IUD prevents pregnancy for 3-6 years. There are several different brands of hormone IUDs. If you choose a hormone IUD, Dr. Awad can help you select the right one.
IUDs are one of the most effective types of birth control. Both copper and hormone IUDs are 99% effective. Since there is little chance for human error or misuse with an IUD -- you don't have to do anything once Dr. Awad implants it -- it's a very reliable method of birth control.
If you change your mind and decide that you're ready to have a baby, it's not a problem. Just schedule an appointment so Dr. Awad can remove your IUD. In most cases, it's fine for you to start trying to conceive as soon as you feel ready after the IUD has been removed.
Want to learn more about IUDs or other types of birth control? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Awad now using the online appointment tool.
