For those who have already fulfilled their dream of becoming a mother or want to take a break between children, what is the best way to prevent pregnancy? Nowadays, we have a long list of products and brands aimed at preventing pregnancy, including oral contraceptives, injectables, condoms, contraceptive patches, and the IUD, so you can choose whichever best fits your routine and your body. But when it comes to a safe contraceptive that you don’t have to worry about on a daily basis, we point to the IUD. But is the IUD really a safe option?

The IUD works as a device inserted in the uterus, or intrauterine, as it’s called, and it acts as a contraceptive. It is recommended for women who do not wish to become pregnant for an extended period, since it can remain inside the body for 5 to 10 years, but of course, it can be removed earlier if desired. The procedure for inserting the IUD is performed in the doctor’s office by a gynecologist, who inserts the T-shaped device into the uterus to prevent sperm from reaching the fallopian tubes.

It is always important to emphasize that the IUD works to prevent pregnancy, not sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, for this purpose, using condoms is essential. Currently, there are two types of IUDs available on the market: copper and hormonal (progesterone), both of which are extremely effective, offering 99% contraceptive protection. The copper IUD prevents sperm from reaching the fallopian tubes, making fertilization of the egg difficult. It also causes the endometrium to thin, preventing the egg from implanting if fertilization does occur. The hormonal IUD, also known as the IUS (Intrauterine System), not only prevents sperm from reaching the tubes, but also inhibits the growth of the endometrium, which also prevents fertilization of the egg.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using the IUD

Like any contraceptive method, there are pros and cons, and it is up to each woman to decide whether or not this method is suitable for her, just as it is with any option. The advantages of using the IUD go beyond its high efficacy and include, for example:

  • Minimal chances of becoming pregnant, offering 99.8% contraceptive effectiveness;
  • No need to worry daily about taking it or forgetting a dose.
  • When you compare the cost of other contraceptive methods, the IUD can be much more economical;
  • It is a long-term contraceptive that can be used for 5 to 10 years;
  • It can be removed at any time upon request.

Just the convenience of having the IUD inserted and not needing to worry about whether you are in your fertile period to have sex, or whether your pill failed or you forgot to take the oral contraceptive, is a true blessing. For women who live busy lives with their careers, this is the most recommended method because it provides not just safety, but also practicality. But as we’ve already mentioned, there are also disadvantages to this method, which unfortunately are often only discovered after the IUD has been inserted. This is a decision that must be made by the woman together with her gynecologist, to decide whether or not it’s worth the risk.

  • Some women experience uterine pain and constant bleeding after getting an IUD.
  • Increased menstrual bleeding, often accompanied by strong cramps.
  • It’s important to check that the IUD hasn’t moved out of place. A small string is left to help locate the IUD inside the body.

Another disadvantage is that the insertion and removal procedure cannot be done at home by the woman herself. It must be performed in a doctor’s office by a gynecologist, and before the appointment is made, supplementary exams should be done to rule out possible problems like pelvic inflammation, ovarian cancer, or even issues with endometriosis that could prevent the IUD from being inserted at that time.

See also: What is the Best Contraceptive? – Formulas and Types

Photo: clarissa rossarola