The intrauterine device (IUD)

An IUD is a small plastic and copper device that is fitted into your womb. It has one or two soft threads on the end. These thin threads come through the opening at the neck of your womb (cervix) into the top of your vagina. IUDs should only be fitted by a trained doctor or nurse. An IUD can stay in for three to ten years, depending on type. An IUD used to be called a 'coil'.

How effective is an IUD?
Out of every 100 sexually active women who don't use any contraception, 80 to 90 will become pregnant in a year.

Out of every 100 women who use an IUD, up to two women may become pregnant in a year. With newer types of IUD less than one woman in 100 will become pregnant in a year.

How does an IUD work?
The main way an IUD works is to stop sperm reaching an egg. It may also do the following:Affect the movement of the egg within the fallopian tube to reduce the chances of fertilisation.Stop a fertilised egg from settling in the womb.

What are the advantages of an IUD?it works as soon as it is put inyou don't have to think about contraception for as long as it is in placeit works for three to ten years depending on typeit doesn't interfere with sex unless the threads are cut too short, when it can make deep penetration a little 'spiky' for the man. What are the disadvantages of an IUD?
Your periods may be heavier, or longer or more painful. This may improve after a few months. There is a very small chance of you getting an infection during the first 20 days after an IUD is put in. Many doctors advise you to have a swab to for any possible existing infection before they will fit an IUD. If you are at risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection (by having more than one sexual partner or if your partner has other partners) you could get a pelvic infection at any time. The IUD can be pushed out by your womb (expulsion) or it can move (displacement). This is more likely soon after it has been put in and you may not know it has happened. This is why your doctor or nurse will teach you how to check your IUD threads every month. Rarely an IUD might go through (perforate) your womb or cervix when it is fitted. It may cause pain but often there are no symptoms. If this happens, the IUD may have to be removed by surgery. Perforation is rare when an IUD is fitted by an experienced doctor or nurse. If you do become pregnant while you are using an IUD there is a small risk of you having an ectopic pregnancy. This is when the pregnancy develops outside your womb, usually in a fallopian tube. Although this is rare, it is dangerous. An IUD does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections, so you may have to use condoms as well. For further information contact the fpa