Reasons to Consider Getting an IUD

If you are dissatisfied with your current method of birth control or would simply like to explore other options, you may wish to ask your gynecologist about a hormonal or copper intrauterine device (IUD). This small contraceptive device is placed inside the uterus during one brief appointment and will continue to prevent pregnancy for years. The following are just a few reasons why you may consider IUD insertion in Huston. IUDs are:

Safe

Insertion of an IUD does not require general anesthesia or incisions, so the risk to the patient is very low. If you are prone to pelvic inflammatory disease or are being treated for an infection, your women’s health specialist may suggest further tests before recommending an IUD. It’s important to remember that IUDs also do not prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

Effective

IUDs have proven to be 20 times more effective at preventing unintended pregnancies than birth control pills. On average, less than 1% of women using IUDs become pregnant. Most of these pregnancies occur when the IUD is expelled from the uterus unnoticed; though this is rare, it’s important to check that your IUD is in place every month, which you can easily do at home.

Long-Lasting

Hormonal IUDs are effective for three to five years, depending on the product. Copper IUDs can last for up to 10 years. After just one visit to your gynecologist for IUD insertion, you simply won’t have to worry about your birth control for quite a long time.

Inexpensive

IUDs have a higher upfront cost, but considering that they remain effective for years, they are actually less expensive over time than birth control pills and other short-term contraceptives. Some IUDs are also covered by insurance.

Reversible

Through IUD removal, the effects of the device are immediately reversible. This makes IUDs an especially attractive option for women who wish to take advantage of the benefits of long-term birth control and then have a planned pregnancy at a later time.

Convenient

Women who use oral contraceptives must remember to take their pills at the same time every day and refill these pills on a monthly basis. Using condoms can be similarly inconvenient and may interrupt sexual activities. IUDs, on the other hand, require little effort and cannot be seen or felt by either person during intercourse.