How does an IUD work? | 3D animation

Summary

An IUD (Intrauterine Device) is a highly effective, long-term form of contraception, available in hormonal and copper types. It works by preventing sperm from reaching an egg or making it difficult for an egg to implant. The insertion procedure is quick, and while cramping and spotting may occur initially, they typically subside over time. IUDs are reversible and offer immediate protection if inserted during certain times of the menstrual cycle. Additionally, IUDs can be used as emergency contraception within five days of unprotected sex. They do not affect weight or libido, but they don’t protect against STDs.

Takeaways

• 😀 IUDs are small devices inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy, and they are over 99% effective.
• 😀 There are two types of IUDs: hormonal IUDs, which release the hormone levonorgestrel, and copper IUDs, which affect sperm movement.
• 😀 The string attached to the IUD is there for removal purposes and won't be noticeable to the person using it.
• 😀 Insertion of the IUD involves using a speculum and special inserter; the process usually takes less than 5 minutes.
• 😀 Some people may experience cramps, dizziness, or even fainting during or immediately after insertion.
• 😀 After insertion, cramping and spotting may occur, but these typically resolve within 3 to 6 months.
• 😀 Hormonal IUDs can make periods lighter or even stop them, while copper IUDs can make periods heavier and cramps worse.
• 😀 If you decide to get pregnant, an IUD can be removed quickly, and you can try to conceive right away.
• 😀 IUDs are immediately effective if inserted within the first four days of your period; otherwise, they take seven days to become effective.
• 😀 IUDs can also be used as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex, with over 99% effectiveness.
• 😀 IUDs do not cause weight gain, change your sex drive, or protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

Q & A

What is an IUD and how does it work?

An IUD (Intrauterine Device) is a small device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It works by either thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg (hormonal IUDs) or altering sperm movement (copper IUDs).

How effective is an IUD in preventing pregnancy?

IUDs are more than 99% effective, meaning fewer than 1 out of 100 users will get pregnant each year.

What are the two types of IUDs and how do they differ?

There are two types of IUDs: hormonal IUDs and copper IUDs. Hormonal IUDs release levonorgestrel to thicken cervical mucus and thin the uterine lining, while copper IUDs use copper to alter sperm movement, preventing sperm from reaching the egg.

What should I expect during the IUD insertion procedure?

During insertion, a doctor will use a speculum to access the cervix and insert the IUD through the cervix into the uterus. The procedure typically takes less than five minutes. Some pain medication may be recommended to reduce discomfort and prevent cramping.

Does the IUD insertion process hurt?

Many people experience some discomfort or cramping during insertion, but it usually lasts only for a short time. There may also be a slight chance of dizziness or fainting.

What are the side effects or symptoms I may experience after getting an IUD?

After insertion, you may experience cramping, spotting, or changes in your menstrual cycle. Hormonal IUDs often lead to lighter periods or no periods at all, while copper IUDs may cause heavier periods and more cramps.

Can I get pregnant right after getting an IUD?

If you decide to get pregnant, the IUD can be removed, and you can try to conceive immediately. The IUD does not impact your ability to get pregnant once removed.

How soon after getting an IUD can I have sex?

If the IUD is inserted during the first four days of your period, it starts working immediately. If inserted at another time in your cycle, protection begins after seven days.

Can IUDs be used as emergency contraception?

Yes, IUDs can be used as emergency contraception if inserted within five days after unprotected sex. They are more than 99% effective as emergency contraception.

Do IUDs affect weight or sex drive?

No, IUDs do not cause weight gain or affect sex drive. They are designed to be a non-hormonal or minimally hormonal form of contraception.

Do IUDs protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

No, IUDs do not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Condoms are still recommended for STD prevention.

What should I do if I want to learn more about fertilization or menstruation?

If you're interested in learning more about fertilization or how menstruation works, be sure to check out the next video in the series.