intrauterine device
T-shaped birth control device placed in the womb
Key facts
- Type
- Intrauterine
- First use
- 1800s
- Synonyms
- Intrauterine system
- Perfect use
- <1%
- Typical use
- <1%
- User reminders
- None
- Sti protection
- No
- Periods
- Depends on the type
- Weight
- No effect
via Wikipedia infobox
Research
16,910 papersArticle
The intrauterine device (IUD), also known as an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD or ICD), is a small, T-shaped birth control device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. IUDs are a form of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC).
IUDs are a safe and effective birth control method that can be divided into two major categories based on the mechanism the device uses to prevent pregnancy: hormonal (levonorgestrel) IUDs and copper IUDs. Both types of IUDs can be used in most women, including adolescents, those who have never been pregnant, and those who have previously had children. They do not affect breastfeeding and can be inserted immediately after delivery. They may also be used immediately after an abortion. Globally, 19.4% of women of reproductive age use intrauterine contraception according to 2019 data. The IUD has a more invasive insertion procedure than other birth control methods. However, among birth control methods, IUDs, along with other contraceptive implants, result in the greatest satisfaction among users.