by Rachel Burt, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner at Roswell OB/GYN………………………………….
You might be like some of our patients who have decided they want a lower maintenance birth control option. Women choose an IUD (intrauterine device) for a variety of reasons. Some of our patients do not plan to have children and want a long term birth control option. Other patients with children may want a dependable birth control method that enables time to consider more permanent options. And, some of our patients just have difficulty remembering to take a birth control pill every day. IUDs are more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. Once the IUD is removed, there is immediate return to fertility. We insert IUDs in the office during a short office procedure. Typically women experience menstrual like cramping during insertion and then return back to their normal activities the same day. There are two IUD options.
Mirena IUDs contain progesterone that helps keep the lining of the uterus thin. The progesterone works to thicken the cervical mucous and thin the uterine lining. It is more than 99% effective as a form of birth control for 5 years. Periods with the mirena are typically very light.
The Paragard IUD contains copper. By preventing fertilization and implantation, the Paragard is more than 99% effective as a form of birth control. It is a non-hormonal birth control that is effective for up to 10 years. Periods with the Paragard tend to be heavier for at least the first year.
Please contact your healthcare provider to discuss if this is an option for you. If you have any concerns, please schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider at 770 751 3600.
