intrauterine contraceptive device

IUCD

What?

The intrauterine device (IUD) is a form of birth control; it is an object placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy.^[1] 

Types?

Among modern IUDs, the two types available are copper-containing devices, and a hormone-containing device that releases a progestogen.

Currently, there are over 10 different kinds of copper IUD available in different parts of the world, and there is one hormonal device, called Mirena.

Copper IUCD

·        Copper IUDs work by impairing the mobility of sperm and preventing them from joining with an egg.

·        Additionally, the foreign body irritates the lining and wall of the uterus making it hard for an embryo to implant.^[5]

Hormonal IUCD

·        The hormonal I.U.D. (brand name Mirena) does not increase bleeding as copper-containing IUDs do.

·        Rather, they reduce menstrual bleeding or prevent menstruation altogether, and can be used as a treatment for menorrhagia (heavy periods).

·        Although use of the Mirena results in much lower systemic progestogen levels than other very-low-dose progestogen-only hormonal contraceptives, they might possibly have some of the same side effects.