HowUKnow - Intrauterine System (IUS)

REGIMEN

Every 3-5 years

EFFICACY TYPICAL USE

The IUS is a small, soft, T-shaped device with a reservoir containing the hormone progestin that is placed in the womb by your healthcare provider. The IUS works by continuously releasing a low dose of progestin from the intrauterine system into the womb. It thickens the mucus of your cervix, which makes it harder for sperm to move freely and reach the egg and it also thins the lining of your uterus. At 99.8% effectiveness, you’re about as protected as you possibly can be by a contraceptive method.

How To

Consult your healthcare provider to make sure whether the IUS is the right method for you. Once the IUS has been fitted by a well-trained healthcare provider, you’re highly protected from pregnancy for up to 3 or 5 years, depending on the type. After the IUS is taken out, the contraceptive effect wears off quickly and you can become pregnant as rapidly as women who have used no contraceptive at all.

Reference: http://www.fpa.org.uk/contraception-help/your-guide-contraception
Accessed on September 6, 2016

PROS

Can stay in place for either 3 or 5 years (depending on the type), but can be removed any time
At 99.8%, it’s one of the most effective contraceptive methods
Does not interrupt sex
Heavy periods can become lighter and less painful
Some women may have shorter lighter or less frequent periods, which reduces the chances of becoming anemic
Can be used when breastfeeding
Fertility returns to its previous level once the IUS is removed

CONS

Requires a trained healthcare provider for insertion and removal
Irregular bleeding and spotting can be common in the first 6 months of use
Some women experience headaches, tenderness and acne after an IUS is fitted
May cause cramps and/or irregular bleeding
Small risk of infection at insertion and of expulsion
Does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)