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What is an intrauterine device?

An intrauterine device (called an IUD) is a form of birth control. It prevents pregnancy either by damaging or killing sperm or blocking it from entering the uterus. An IUD is a small, T-shaped device with a string attached to the end. The purpose of the string is to help your healthcare provider make sure that the IUD is still in place. It also is how a healthcare provider removes the device.

There are 2 types of IUDs available in Canada: hormonal and non-hormonal (copper). Copper IUDs (example Liberte, Flexi-T, Nova-T) have copper rings, or coils, that alter the chemicals in your uterine fluid to kill sperm. You should not use these if you are allergic to copper. Hormonal options include Mirena and Kyleena. These release progestin hormones to thicken your cervical mucus and stop ovulation.

Path to improved health

A healthcare provider can insert an IUD. They can insert an IUD at any time during your menstrual cycle. A copper IUD placed for birth control is effective right away. Hormonal IUDs is effective for birth control right away IF it was placed within the first 7 days of your menstrual cycle. If it was placed at any other time in your cycle, then it will be effective for birth control after 7 days. 

The procedure is quick and done in the health care provider’s office. The healthcare provider puts a small plastic tube with the IUD into your vagina. You may have pain or cramping during this process. Discomfort can last several hours or days. Follow the instructions given by your health care provider regarding care after the IUD is inserted.

An IUD is effective for 3 to 12 years, depending on the type and brand. Your healthcare provider can remove it at any time.

Contact your healthcare provider right away if you have the following symptoms or problems.

• You can feel the IUD
• Your IUD comes loose or falls out
• You have a fever or chills
• You have abnormal blood, fluid, or odor coming from your vagina

Things to consider

You shouldn’t use an IUD if you are pregnant or want to become pregnant. You can, however, get an IUD immediately after giving birth. The best time for it to be inserted it is after delivery of the baby and placenta.

IUDs do not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs or STIs). To reduce your risk of getting an STI, use a condom when you have sex. IUDs can affect your menstrual cycle. At first, you may have pain, cramping, or spotting (light bleeding) between periods. This can last for 3 to 6 months. Hormonal IUDs can cause your periods to be irregular. They may also cause you to miss periods. Copper IUDs can cause worse cramps and bleeding during your period.

The benefits of IUDs include:

• Pregnancy prevention success rate of 99% when used properly
• Use of 3 to 12 years, depending on the type/brand
• Can be removed by your healthcare provider at any time
• Convenience
• Safe for people who just gave birth and/or are breastfeeding
• Cannot be felt during sex
• Low risk of side effects

Risks are uncommon, but include:

• Injury to the uterus when the IUD is being inserted
• Increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease if you have an STD
• Chance of getting pregnant, in which case your healthcare provider should remove the IUD (If you become pregnant, the risk of miscarriage and health problems for you and the baby increase.)
• Chance of an ectopic pregnancy (This occurs when an egg fertilizes outside of your uterus. It is rare but can be harmful.)