Tuesday, 23 October 2012

Intrauterine device (IUD).


It is a T-shaped device made of plastic with a copper coil that has threads with two threads to allow an easier removal. It is inserted into the entrance of the womb usually during woman’s period and it can stay there for 5-10 years. It prevents the sperm from entering the uterus and in case it does the IUD makes the womb’s inside inhospitable, which means that a fertilized egg won’t be able to implant and develop. It is 98% effective.
From the way the device works, it can also be used as an emergency contraception for up to 5 days after the sexual act or after earliest ovulation.
It is a reversible method of contraception, but it is not a barrier method, so you are not protected from sexually transmitted diseases.
The advantages of IUD are not having to think about forgetting contraception, it does not have effects on the rest of the body as it does not contain hormones and it does not interfere with sexual process.
The possible side effects of IUD are cramps in the beginning, chance of infection, longer, heavier and more painful periods, damage to the womb when inserting and expulsion, when it may come out without you noticing.
The IUD can be fitted and removed by trained medical professionals only, who sometimes test for infection or provide antibiotics in case of infection.

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