IUC/IUD's - Inexpensive, Discreet, Effective Birth Control

The next article in my birth control method series is on Intrauterine Contraceptives, otherwise known as IUC's. These methods are also referred to as Intrauterine Devices, or IUD's. If you have missed any other article, be sure to check out the Choosing a Birth Control Method, the Birth Control Pill, and the Birth Control Patch.

IUC's are tiny, flexible, t-shaped devices available by prescription only and must be inserted by a health care professional. Two types of IUC's are available in the United States. ParaGard is a copper version of the IUC that provides effective birth control without the use of hormones, and can be left in place for up to ten years from the date of insertion. Mirena, a plastic version of the IUC works by continuously releasing small amounts of hormones (as the pill, but much smaller amounts because the source of the hormones is close to where they need to be in the body) and can be left in place for up to five years from the date of insertion.

Which type is right for you is based on your preferences, and your doctor's recommendations. If you are looking for a form of birth control without having to rely on the not-so-accurate periodic abstinence or fertility awareness method that does not have hormones, then the ParaGard is about all you have left. ParaGard is also perfect for those who cannot take hormonal birth control for any of the various reasons.

IUC's work by altering the uterine environment and making conception and implantation impossible. If the device moves or is rejected by the body, pregnancy becomes possible, and the pregnancy may have to be terminated for the safety of the mother. Ectopic pregnancies are also more common in users of the IUC if a pregnancy occurs while the device is in place. These pregnancies are very dangerous and must be terminated. Call your doctor immediately if you suspect you may be pregnant with an IUC.

Very rarely, the uterus can become perforated during the insertion and use of an IUC, and pelvic infection can incur. While this is not likely, this should be known before deciding to use one.

The IUC is the most discreet method of birth control, as no one can tell you are using it. A partner may experience some irritation from the string, but that can be adjusted by your practitioner. The IUC is a completely reversible method of birth control and fertility returns quickly after removal.

Though the insertion process is painful for some, it is easy to quickly bounce back from. Like all other methods of birth control your options should be
discussed with your doctor and chosen based on your health and other lifestyle factors.