Insertions:
About Copper IUD insertions — Many women choose copper IUD insertions because they are generally the less expensive type of IUD to purchase and they contain no hormones. They are very effective contraceptives and only about 1% of women will get pregnant in a year. Copper IUDs usually make a woman’s period heavier and longer but there are no adverse effects from a copper IUD outside the uterus: for example, there is no: weight gain, mood changes, nausea, or sore breasts that might be associated with other types of IUDs.
Is IUD insertion a safe procedure ? — Yes. IUD insertions are easy to do when performed by trained medical professionals. Consult your doctor. The insertion of an IUD is usually uncomplicated. Some doctors may prescribe a pain medication before an IUD is inserted. Your doctor will measure the size of your cervix to ensure a proper IUD fit and placement. If you have any fears about uterus perforation, ( there is less than 1/1000 chance that a hole could be made in your uterus when the IUD is inserted ); rest assured that perforation of the uterus is quite rare during insertions and that these types of holes heal within weeks.
After an IUD insertion — Women can feel slight pain when the IUD is inserted but this quickly goes away. After the insertion of an IUD, most women feel like they are having a period with light bleeding and maybe some cramps. Periods can be heavier and longer after the insertion, but this will improve after the first 3 months.
Consult your doctor — It is always a good idea to schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor after your first period ( within 4 to 6 weeks of the IUD insertion ) just to make sure that the IUD is in place and functioning properly; thereafter, a woman can have an IUD checkup at her next gynecological exam. Your doctor can advise you more about IUDs, insertions and checkups.
Benefits:
Benefits of Copper IUDs — Copper IUDs generally last from 5 – 10 years after insertion. These kind of IUDs are very effective as an “emergency contraception.” Copper IUDs are over 99% effective to prevent pregnancies if inserted within 7 days AFTER unprotected intercourse ( for example, when a condom breaks during sex ). This is because the copper ions released from the IUD work directly against the sperm and egg and prevent a fertilized egg from attaching to the uterus. Note: This is not an abortion, because you are not pregnant until an egg has attached to your uterus.
PATIENTS: On the rare occasion that you experience any difficulties after an IUD insertion, please contact your doctor.
DOCTORS/CLINICS: If you experience difficulties with an IUD insertion, please refer to the page link for details about replacements; Download and reference the forms here ( .doc or .pdf files ) : Replacement Authorization Forms
Medisafe Distribution Inc. provides the above information for IUD guidance only; do not consider it accurate or comprehensive in any way — Only a trained medical professional can give you the best advice for your health needs; Consult your doctor for the most up-to-date information about IUD insertions — they are trained to assist you and can answer all of your questions.