IUD Specialist
Midwifery Women's Care
Midwives & OB-GYNs located in Boca Raton, FL
The team of providers at Midwifery Women’s Care provides several birth control options for women in Boca Raton, Florida and the surrounding areas. One option that many of their patients choose is an IUD.
IUD Q & A
What Is an IUD?
IUD stands for “intrauterine device.” It’s a tiny T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a medical professional to provide long-term, although not permanent, birth control. IUDs are available in both non-hormonal and hormonal forms. Once an IUD is implanted, it can remain in place from 3 to 10 years, depending on the type used. Removal is another simple office procedure. IUDs are an extremely popular form of birth control that offers numerous benefits. It is 99% effective and doesn’t require any thought on a daily basis or every time they have sex.
Are There Different Kinds of IUDs?
IUDs can be categorized into two groups. Copper IUDs produces an inflammatory reaction in the uterus that interferes with sperm and fertilization, which helps prevent fertilization. Copper IUDs can be a great option for women who, for any reason, do not want to use a hormone method of contraception. A copper IUD is actually made of plastic but wrapped in a thin copper wire. The cooper’s ions prevent sperm movement and, therefore, pregnancy. Non-copper IUDs release progestin, which is a hormone that causes the mucus around the cervix to become thick. The thickened mucus physically blocks sperm at the cervix. Some brand names of IUDs include Paragard (which is copper), Mirena, Kyleena, and Skyla (which are non-copper).
How Long Does It Take to Insert an IUD?
Inserting an IUD is a simple procedure that is performed right in a medical provider’s office. It begins just like a pelvic exam, using a speculum to gently widen the vaginal canal. The IUD is then inserted into the uterus through the cervix in a procedure within a matter of minutes. In fact, the entire appointment takes less than an hour. Some women may experience cramping or mild discomfort while the IUD is being inserted into the uterus, and a local anesthetic can be injected to numb the cervix if desired to prevent discomfort.