Birth control puts women in charge of their fertility. However, just thinking about the sheer number of birth control options can overwhelm you.
If you're looking for a contraceptive that requires minimal effort on your part but offers long-lasting protection, intrauterine devices (IUDs) could be the perfect solution.
At Monarque Health and Wellness in Ashland, Oregon, we're committed to helping you understand your birth control options and make the best choice for your health and lifestyle.
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a very small, flexible and light T-shaped device that goes inside the uterus. IUDs can be hormonal or copper, and their effectiveness lies in how they work. Both types primarily function by changing the way sperm cells move so they can't reach an egg to fertilize it.
Hormonal IUDs release a small amount of progestin into the uterus, thickening the mucus in the cervix and making it more challenging for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg. It also thins the lining of the uterus, making it less likely for a fertilized egg to attach and develop.
Copper IUDs use copper’s natural spermicidal properties, which produce an inflammatory reaction that is toxic to sperm, preventing fertilization. This type of IUD does not release hormones, making it an attractive option for those who prefer or require non-hormonal birth control.
IUDs are increasingly popular due to their set-it-and-forget-it nature. They offer several significant advantages: They’re highly effective, convenient, and hassle-free.
When you opt for an IUD, you can be confident thanks to its track record of better than 99% effectiveness, making IUDs one of the most reliable forms of birth control. Depending on the type, IUDs provide protection against pregnancy for 3-10 years.
IUDs require no daily action on your part. You won’t have to think about it the way you would with the birth control pill, which you take daily. Once inserted, IUDs provide continuous contraception.
If you decide you want to become pregnant, you can have the IUD removed, and fertility typically returns quickly.
IUDs can be an excellent choice for women who desire long-term and reversible contraception that’s both low maintenance and highly effective. They're also a great option if you have a busy lifestyle or simply prefer not to have to remember to take a pill every day.
If you're sensitive to hormones, the copper IUD is hormone-free. The team at Monarque Health and Wellness provides a thorough consultation to determine if an IUD is a good fit for you.
The process typically involves a brief, in-office procedure to insert the IUD into your uterus. Some women may experience discomfort or mild side effects, like irregular bleeding or cramping, but these typically subside after a few months.
Choosing the right birth control is a personal decision that should be based on your lifestyle, health, and future family planning goals. At Monarque Health and Wellness, we're dedicated to providing you with the information and support you need to make the best decision for you.
If you're considering an IUD or want to learn more about your birth control options, don't hesitate to reach out to Monarque Health and Wellness. Give us a call at 541-326-4777 to schedule your visit, or send us a message here on our website.
We're here to guide you through your contraceptive journey with care and expertise, making sure you feel empowered and confident in your choices.
