Intra-Uterine Devices: What All Sexually Active Women Need to Know

Intra-Uterine devices have become widely talked about in this age of casual sexual encounters, and many doctors and health care professionals are becoming cognizant of the increased inquiries a to this type of contraceptive. This is one of the most common birth control methods used around the world by women to avoid pregnancy. The intra-uterine device or IUD is a small device placed into the uterus of the woman (through the cervix) that prevents pregnancy.

Intra-uterine devices come in two major types: copper and hormonal. The copper IUD is very effective since copper is a natural spermicide, that is copper is toxic to sperm. The copper also stimulates the uterus to release their own natural spermicide, this natural spermicide contains copper ions, sperm killing enzymes and a few hormones. The hormonal type of UID's function to prevent pregnancy by releasing a form of progestin called leonorgestrel. This is much more effective and safe than the copper UID's but has a much shorter lifespan, the copper UID has a lifespan of about 10 years while the hormonal type generally lasts about half of that time.

Infection of the pelvic area is a very common problem after the insertion of a UID and it is recommended that all women see a health care professional before and after the insertion of one of these devices.

Intra-uterine devices are not generally noticed by either the man or the woman during sexual intercourse, a string hangs from the bottom of the UID that allows for repositioning. The woman is instructed to check the position of her UID after each menstrual cycle, if the string cannot be found of the device has been damaged on examination, it is advised that the person seek immediate medical care.

The insertion of an intra-uterine device is an invasive procedure that generally lasts about 10 minutes depending on the skill of your doctor and your specific anatomical features. There is generally slight abdominal discomfort during the procedure and many women complain of pain for about 2-4 days afterward. The removal of an intra-uterine device is a quick and easy process and can be performed by the woman at any time.

Intra uterine devices or UID's are known throughout the world as a very effective method of contraception, and is often foolproof when used in combination with another birth control method. Many doctors and health care professionals recommend this type of contraceptive to women of all age groups since it does a very effective job of preventing pregnancy in most women.

References
1. http://www.tripdatabase.com/spider.html?itemid=853548
2. http://www.womenhealthline.com/intrauterine-device-iud-the-effectual-birth-control-coil-part-vi/
3. http://www.accessmylibrary.com/article-1G1-190703147/intrauterine-devices-more-women.html