Intrauterine device - types, pros and cons, reviews. All about the contraceptive device

The choice of contraception is a sensitive issue. I would like to choose a product that not only provides high protection against pregnancy, but also does not cause discomfort and is safe. Condoms are used as contraception, hormonal pills, many women put in a spiral. Can a woman with an IUD get pregnant?

Before you find out what the probability of getting pregnant with the IUD is, you need to find out what it is and how it works.
IUDs are sticks that are T-shaped. I make them from plastic coated with metal. The essence of protection is to prevent sperm from penetrating into the uterine cavity and preventing the fertilized egg from attaching to the uterine mucosa. If the IUD is placed correctly, the woman does not feel it at all.

The spiral has the following effects:

  • increases the contractility of the uterine walls, thereby preventing egg implantation;
  • increases contractility fallopian tubes, accelerating the passage of the egg through them. The walls of the uterus are unable to accept the embryo;
  • limits sperm motility;
  • copper and silver on the VMF have an additional spermicidal effect;
  • hormonal IUDs affect the condition of the endometrium and ovulation.

Spiral is known means protection against unwanted pregnancy

Spirals first appeared in the second half of the last century. Since then it has been modernized and many varieties have been invented. Each of them has its own characteristics. Today the most common categories include:

  • inert (Lipps loop) - a first-generation design that is practically not used today due to constant displacements and, compliance, low efficiency;
  • spiral with copper - there are different shapes: in the form of a ring, loop, umbrella. The most popular are Multiload, Nova T, Copper-T, ParaGard;
  • with hormones (progesterone, levonorgestrol). Hormones are released in small quantities during the life of the device. When using such coils, ovulation is suppressed. The most popular today are Mirena, Progestasert, LNG-20.

The latest generation is one of the most effective. But, nevertheless, the question of whether a woman with an IUD can get pregnant and which IUDs are the best remains relevant.

The pros and cons of using an intrauterine device

Pros of using an IUD:

  • degree of protection above 90%;
  • effective immediately after installation;
  • does not cause discomfort, provided that it is placed correctly;
  • The average duration of a contraceptive is 3-5 years;
  • reversibility of the contraceptive method. If a woman decides to have a child, it is enough to visit a gynecologist and have the IUD removed. Conceiving a child is possible after the first ovulation;
  • availability. Contraception can be installed at any gynecologist;
  • After insertion of the IUD, there is no need for additional contraception.
  • The main disadvantage of the spiral is that after insertion the uterine cavity remains slightly open. This means that penetration is not excluded pathogenic microorganisms and infections. To reduce this likelihood, modern structures are made of metals that have disinfecting properties;
  • the presence of a foreign object in the body of the uterus helps to lengthen menstruation and increase the volume of discharge;
  • there is a possibility of implantation of the fertilized egg outside the body of the uterus (ectopic pregnancy), which threatens the patient’s life;
  • any deviations in the structure of a woman’s genital organs are a contraindication to the installation of an IUD, since there is a high probability ectopic pregnancy and development of inflammatory processes;
  • in those who give birth, it may fall out, and this goes unnoticed by women. Only a gynecologist can notice the prolapse during an examination;
  • the IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections;
  • You cannot remove or insert the device yourself. After installation, it is necessary to periodically visit a gynecologist for preventive purposes.

The presence of an intrauterine device as a foreign body in the uterine cavity is reliable means contraception

Is it possible to get pregnant with the IUD?

Is it possible to get pregnant and in what cases if you have an IUD? The most common reasons for conception:

  • incorrectly placed IUD;
  • the spiral may fall out or become dislodged.

The likelihood of pregnancy arises when you visit a doctor with little experience in using contraceptives, or install them on the wrong day of your cycle. Optimal time for administration – 3-4 days of menstruation. Then the cervix is ​​slightly open and the device easily enters and is installed correctly.

More often, displacement or loss of the IUD occurs in women who have given birth or had abortions. The cervix does not close tightly enough, and the device comes out along with the blood when menstruation occurs. The risk of loss also exists on other days of the cycle, but this happens much less frequently.

The displacement occurs due to incorrect installation or, if a first-generation spiral is installed, the shape of which is imperfect.

You can get pregnant with the IUD if its expiration date has expired. This applies to IUDs with hormones, the supply of which is depleted over time. An expired structure does not hold well in the uterus, it can move and increase the chances of penetration of the fertilized egg.

It is worth noting that sometimes gynecologists diagnose pregnancy with an intrauterine device that is positioned correctly, has not shifted or expired. The reasons for conception in this case are unknown.

If your period is any late, you should be checked for pregnancy.

Signs and symptoms of pregnancy with IUD

So how can you get pregnant with an IUD, how to find out about it in time? Signs of pregnancy with an IUD are no different from a normal pregnancy. What are the signs?

  • delayed menstruation;
  • change in sense of smell;
  • nausea;
  • breast swelling and tenderness;
  • increase in the hCG hormone (shown by a blood or urine test).

With spirals, it is important not to miss these signs and immediately contact a gynecologist, as there is a risk of embryo implantation in in the wrong place, for example, pipes. Considering its properties, intrauterine pregnancy very dangerous as it leads to pipe rupture. This is fraught heavy bleeding and shock. If you react in time, doctors remove the tube; if not, the woman may die.

Cervical pregnancy is also fraught with injury, bleeding, and subsequent insufficiency of the cervical canal.

What to do if conception occurs through an IUD?

If a woman becomes pregnant with an IUD, is it possible to give birth? What to do in this case?
Previously, doctors were of the opinion that pregnancy with an IUD was an indication for termination. The point is that this method birth control increases the risk of miscarriage at 6-8 weeks. There were cases when the device grew into the body of the uterus, and this led to the development of pathologies in the fetus.

Today everything depends on the patient’s wishes. Modern designs and modernized methods of patient management make it possible to minimize pregnancy complications and most children are born healthy.

If a woman has achieved fertilization with an IUD and decides to continue the pregnancy, she needs to undergo examination. A gynecologist performs an ultrasound to study the location of the IUD and the implanted fertilized egg.

If the results show that the contraceptive does not affect the development of the baby, and the woman does not want to terminate the pregnancy, she can only be constantly monitored by a specialist.

Pregnancy and IUD: consequences

The development of a fetus conceived in the presence of an IUD must be constantly monitored, as there is a chance of undesirable consequences:

  • the contraceptive method can injure the wall of the uterus and cause it to contract. This leads to miscarriage in the first month of pregnancy;
  • although rare, the spiral can become an obstacle to the growth and development of the embryo. This is also fraught with miscarriage.

Removing an intrauterine device is an individual issue. If the diagnosis shows that it does not interfere with the child’s full development, they can leave it and simply monitor the patient. If there is a shift of the structure to another place and this poses a threat of damage to the baby, then it must be removed. Miscarriages often occur after this procedure.

Is it possible to give birth with a device?

Due to the risk of miscarriage, the IUD, provided that it does not interfere with the development of the fetus, is often not removed. As a result, women go with her throughout their pregnancy and manage to give birth.

It is important to contact an experienced specialist who will prescribe the necessary examinations and tell you what to do next.

It often happens that contraception falls out in the middle of pregnancy, that is, the fetus rejects it. Some doctors still advise removing the IUD so that it does not endanger the child, which is dangerous. The fact is that it can cause infection to enter the uterus. But this is not at all necessary.
In general, pregnancy with an IUD is a risky event. IN equally a woman can both carry and provide birth healthy baby, and don’t go out for the entire term. A miscarriage can happen at any time due to infection or the fact that the IUD does not allow the fetus to fully develop.

How to reduce the likelihood of fertilization

We found out whether it is possible to get pregnant using a method of contraception such as the IUD. This probability ranges from 1-3%. Are there ways to avoid unwanted pregnancy?

Gynecologists do not recommend using additional means protection. It is better to adhere to the following rules:

  • undergo an examination by a doctor and an ultrasound scan every six months in order to detect signs of displacement or prolapse in time;
  • periodically independently check the length of the threads protruding from the cervix. Elongation of the threads indicates displacement, disappearance indicates loss;
  • monitor the expiration date of the contraceptive. After the expiration date, remove the IUD and insert a new one.

How long before you plan to get pregnant after removing the IUD?

Another question that worries women: “When can you get pregnant after the IUD?” Gynecologists assure that conception is possible immediately after extraction of this product, already at the first ovulation.

In fact, conception does not always happen so quickly, especially if there was an IUD containing contraceptive hormones. Changes occur in the girl’s body, reproductive function is being established.
When planning a pregnancy, doctors advise removing this contraceptive several months before the expected date of conception. The uterine mucosa should be completely restored.
What do the statistics say?

  • 30% of women become pregnant in the first month after removing the device;
  • 60% conceive within 3-4 months;
  • 10% have been trying to have a child for at least a year.

After removing the IUD, pregnancy will be no different from normal.

Intrauterine devices this is one of the earliest types female contraception. The introduction of an IUD is one of the most reliable and frequently used means of protection among women against unwanted pregnancy; the probability is 90-98%. They exist large number, differing in configuration, principle of action, rigidity, difference in shape, containing hormones and not. For each woman, the spiral is selected purely individually, based on the characteristics of her body and the results of the examination.

What is the operating principle? intrauterine device. The effect of the intrauterine device, unlike other contraceptives, is that with their help there is an obstacle to the fertilization of the egg; the egg passes through the fallopian tubes into the uterine cavity 5-7 times faster, as a result of which it does not have time to accumulate those qualities that will allow it to penetrate the wall of the uterus for its further development. That is intrauterine device takes the place of the fertilized egg and thus interferes with its location, and the egg, not finding a place for implantation in the uterus, leaves the woman’s body with the next menstruation. There is an opinion that the intrauterine device causes inflammation of the lining of the uterus, as a result of which, during the next menstruation, very early pregnancy occurs. The copper contained in the intrauterine device has a cytotoxic effect on sperm and blastocyst, thereby enhancing the contraceptive effect.

It is worth considering that intrauterine devices have both positive aspects, and no.

The advantages are that they are easy to use and highly effective; the introduction of a spiral will not affect your everyday life, pregnancy does not occur, there is no discomfort during intimacy, not for the woman, not for the partner. The intrauterine device is ideal for use by women who have recently given birth and who are breastfeeding; it does not affect the lactation period in any way. After removing them, you can get pregnant quite quickly and easily.

But on the other hand, the spiral has a fairly large list of contraindications. Intrauterine device is a foreign body introduced into a woman’s body, and there is a high probability of causing inflammatory processes.

Also, do not forget that the procedure for inserting an intrauterine device is quite painful, in some cases the amount of bleeding increases during menstruation. It is not suitable for everyone, and its administration has contraindications, for example for nulliparous girls, because due to possible appearance inflammation, in the future there will be difficulties in conceiving and bearing a child. Chronically inflammation, uterine bending and erosion, tumors, uterine fibroids, ovarian dysfunction. Like any other contraceptive, the intrauterine device does not 100% protect against pregnancy.

Nowadays it is not difficult to choose effective remedy contraception. Married couple has the right to choose a method independently, taking into account all the pros and cons. It is very important to visit a doctor and consult on this issue. After all, the health of a woman who wants to become a mother or already has children primarily depends on this. One of the most popular methods is the intrauterine device. Let's look further at the pros and cons of the intrauterine device.

How does the IUD work?

The purpose of the IUD is to protect against unplanned pregnancy. The name suggests that it is inserted into the uterine cavity, and it was obtained due to the previous appearance of the product, as it looked like a spiral. Currently, the IUD is a T-shaped stick made of flexible inert plastic. This material is completely safe for women's health.

There are two types of spirals:

  1. The upper part of the spiral is in the form of a thin copper wire.
  2. The spiral contains a container with hormones that enter the uterus throughout its entire lifespan.

It has both the first and second types of pros and cons. The photo above shows what this type of contraception currently looks like.

The principle of operation of the spiral:


Who can install a spiral:

  • A woman who has given birth and is over 35 years old.
  • Women who have children after an abortion without complications.
  • Without cervical pathologies.
  • If you protect yourself with oral contraceptives not recommended.
  • Women who have low level sexually transmitted infections.

Contraindications to the IUD

Before using this method of contraception, it is necessary to consider all the pros and cons of the intrauterine device.

And also make sure that there are no following contraindications:

  • There was no birth yet.
  • Constant change of sexual partner.
  • Cancers of the pelvic organs.
  • The presence of injuries and stitches on the cervix.
  • Ectopic pregnancy.
  • Blood diseases. Anemia.
  • Infertility.
  • Vaginal infections.
  • The presence of inflammatory processes in the reproductive system.

How to prepare for installing a spiral

First of all, you need to select a suitable spiral and undergo an examination, which includes:


Next, the doctor must probe the uterine cavity and determine the distance between the uterine angles. And only after thorough examination and there are no contraindications, an intrauterine device is installed. The pros and cons of BMC should already be considered by you.

Features of the first days with a spiral

It is worth noting that only a doctor can install and remove an intrauterine device. Within a few days after installing the coil, the following may appear: side effects:

  • Pain in the lower abdomen.
  • Bloody discharge.

You should also avoid elevated physical activity. Must be adhered to proper nutrition, rest more, lie down.

The manifestation of side effects can be observed for six months and will disappear completely over time.

Must be taken regularly medical examination after the IUD was installed. After installation, a month later, then after 3 months, then once every six months.

What are the advantages of the IUD?

If you have chosen a contraceptive method such as an intrauterine device, you need to know all the pros and cons.

Let's look at the positive aspects:

  • Does not require special care. After installation, after a period of rehabilitation, it is practically not felt.
  • Efficiency is 95-98%.
  • Can be installed for several years.
  • For many women, the menstrual cycle becomes shorter, and the periods themselves become almost painless.
  • Has a positive healing effect for uterine fibroids and other gynecological pathologies.
  • Can be used during breastfeeding.
  • Does not affect reproductive function in the body.
  • The effectiveness remains regardless of taking any medications.
  • Economical and convenient. There is no need to follow a dosage schedule or spend money on regularly purchasing contraceptives.

What are the disadvantages of the IUD?

There are also negative aspects IUD use:

  • There is a high risk of ectopic pregnancy.
  • There is no protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
  • Risk increases inflammatory diseases.
  • Cannot be used by nulliparous women.
  • Painful periods for the first six months.
  • Large blood losses are possible.

We looked at the pros and cons of such a contraceptive as the intrauterine device. We will consider the consequences of BMC further.

What complications can there be when using an IUD?

The qualifications and experience of the doctor are of great importance, since correct installation or removal by an inexperienced specialist can lead to removal of the uterus. Knowing the pros and cons of the intrauterine device, you need to know what complications are possible when using it.

Possible complications when using an IUD:

  • Perforation of the uterine walls.
  • Cervical rupture.
  • Bleeding after installation.
  • The IUD can grow into the uterus.
  • The antennae can irritate the walls of the cervix.
  • The spiral may move or fall out if incorrectly selected and installed.
  • Pain in the lower abdomen.

You need to urgently visit a specialist if:

  • Appeared severe pain lower abdomen.
  • There is a suspicion of pregnancy.
  • The bleeding continues long period time.
  • There are signs of infection: elevated temperature body, unusual vaginal discharge.
  • Pain or bleeding occurs during sexual intercourse.
  • The IUD strings have become longer or shorter.

We looked at what an intrauterine device is, the pros and cons of this method of contraception, as well as possible complications. Next, consider patient reviews.

Every woman at certain periods of her life thinks about choosing a method of contraception. Use for this purpose hormonal drugs in tablet form is not always possible and safe. Gynecological spiral is an excellent alternative to oral contraceptives.

As you know, intrauterine devices can be of two types:

  • coils containing copper (and sometimes silver to extend service life);
  • IUDs containing hormones.

The choice of a specific type of spiral, as well as its insertion, is made by a gynecologist.

What does a gynecological device look like?

An intrauterine device is a small, bendable device that is inserted into the uterine cavity. As a rule, such spirals have a shape resembling the letter T. The copper-containing coil consists of thin copper wire, while the hormone-containing coil consists of mandatory includes a container from which a certain amount of progestin, a hormone that prevents ovulation, is periodically released.

How does the intrauterine device work?

The gynecological spiral works as follows:

  • does not allow the fertilized egg to implant into the wall of the uterus (all types of spirals);
  • reduces the ability of sperm to pass through the cervical canal (hormone-containing coils);
  • prevents the onset of ovulation (hormone-containing IUDs);
  • has a detrimental effect on sperm and eggs (copper-containing coils).

It is believed that the spiral, being foreign body inside the uterus, causes inflammation in its endometrium. Microorganisms do not participate in this inflammation, and it is minimal, but this is enough to ensure that the fertilized egg cannot attach to the wall. In addition, the tone of the uterus is increased due to the presence of the spiral in it, muscle tissue The fallopian tubes work faster, which causes the fertilized egg to enter the uterine cavity too early and makes implantation impossible due to its unpreparedness for this.

Gynecological spirals

Gynecological coils can be various brands. The most popular is gynecological. This is a hormone-containing spiral, the mechanism of which provides for the daily release of 20 mcg of levonorgestrel. This is a T-shaped device, active substance which has a direct local effect on the endometrium of the uterus. Others famous brands are Juno Bio, Multiload, Nova. They all differ in size, shape and quality of material.

Prices for intrauterine devices can vary from 250 rubles to 15 thousand rubles. However, each type of spirals has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, the Juno Bio spiral Russian production attractive price, but insufficient level of efficiency. Mirena, in turn, not only protects against the meeting of a sperm and an egg, but also prevents the attachment of a fertilized egg if a meeting does take place. In addition, Mirena performs a therapeutic function, since the hormones included in its composition allow you to regulate the menstrual cycle.

The influence of the spiral on female body

The presence of a spiral inside the uterus certainly does not go unnoticed for the female body. Its positive effect is to prevent unwanted pregnancy, regulate menstrual cycle(selected brands). The negative impact of the spiral can manifest itself in the strengthening of previously existing inflammatory process, exacerbation. In some cases, the menstrual cycle is disrupted and spotting between periods begins to bother you. Some women experience painful sensations varying degrees intensity during sexual intercourse.

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a contraceptive device that is a loop, ring, or similar appearance letter T and is inserted into the uterine cavity using a special applicator.

The father of this device is considered to be the German gynecologist Richter, who back in 1909 proposed using 2-3 silk threads, twisted into a ring and placed in the uterus, for the purpose of contraception. His invention was improved by another German doctor, Gräfenberg, who in 1929 added copper and silver wire to the silk threads.

However, such products were not particularly popular because they were too hard, caused abdominal pain and provoked bleeding.

It was only in 1960, after the metal in them was replaced by soft, polymer plastic and polymer IUDs were born, that this method of contraception became widespread.

How does the IUD work?

There are various shapes and types of IUDs. However, the principle of operation of the intrauterine device in any case is based on the fact that it represents a foreign body and, by its presence in the uterus, causes several effects:

  • Mechanically disrupts the ability of the endometrium to degenerate and makes it unsuitable for the attachment of a fertilized egg.
  • Stimulates the release of prostaglandins and thereby increases the tone of the uterus, which also prevents the attachment of the egg.
  • Enhances the production of macrophages - special cells immune system which can destroy sperm.
  • Increases the viscosity of cervical mucus, which is why sperm cannot enter either the uterus or the fallopian tubes.
  • Spirals containing copper and silver also have a spermatotoxic effect.
  • IUDs containing homones additionally suppress ovulation and endometrial growth.

The Pearl index, a coefficient showing the effectiveness of a contraceptive method, for intrauterine devices is 0.2. That is, when correct use During the year, pregnancy occurred only in two out of a thousand cases.

According to this indicator, the spiral is the most effective method contraception, which is more reliable than even some birth control pills.

Types and features

Currently, there are about 50 options for IUDs, which differ in shape, size and materials. Therefore, they are usually classified by generation:

  1. The first is inert IUDs. The most popular were spirals made of polymer materials in the form Latin letter S. Today, due to side effect and low efficiency, this type is practically not used, and in some countries it is even prohibited.
  2. The second generation is copper-containing products. The first representatives of this generation were produced with copper wire inserted into the structure. Their main disadvantage was the too rapid release of copper, due to which the coil had to be replaced every 2–3 years. More modern IUDs come with an additional silver rod, which slows the release of copper and makes its use more durable. The most popular of this series are the Nova T intrauterine device, Multiload Cu-250 and Cu-375, as well as Sopper-T.
  3. Third generation - spirals with hormones. The impetus for their creation was the desire to combine the advantages of the IUD and birth control pills. Externally, they are a T-shaped structure, the stem of which is filled with the hormone levonorgestrel or progesterone. How does an intrauterine device work? hormonal IUD? Almost the same as hormonal pills. The device is designed in such a way that equal doses of the hormone enter the woman’s body every day. The validity period of such products is 5 years, and the most popular of this generation are Mirena and Levonova.

The types of spirals are very diverse. Usually, women who are thinking about using this means of protection have a logical question: which is better, hormonal or non-hormonal intrauterine device?

Only a gynecologist can solve this problem after examination and receiving test results. Despite the fact that you can purchase any IUD at a pharmacy without a doctor’s prescription, you should not make such a purchase yourself.

Advantages

Of course, the main advantage of modern intrauterine devices is that this product is the most effective of all those currently existing. However, a high percentage of reliability is not their only advantage. Their advantages also include:

  • Ease of use. The intrauterine device will be valid, depending on the type, from one year to five years and you will not have to take pills every day or think about any other methods of contraception.
  • Can be used immediately after childbirth and during breastfeeding.
  • Easy reversibility of the method. After removal of the spiral, the reproductive properties of the body are restored in just a few months.
  • Even hormonal IUDs do not have such a strong effect on the female body as birth control pills, and, therefore, have much more fewer contraindications for use.
  • Unlike a condom or vaginal ring, they do not cause discomfort or reduce sensation.
  • Taking into account long term Even expensive products are more cost-effective to use than any other means of protecting against pregnancy.

Flaws

Unfortunately, ideal methods Contraception does not exist and such a reliable means as the IUD has its drawbacks. The disadvantages of this method include:

  • Increased risk of developing acute inflammatory diseases.
  • Not a single contraceptive device protects against sexually transmitted diseases, so this method of protection is more suitable for established, permanent couples.
  • In the first time after installation, menstruation is usually more painful and occurs more abundantly and takes longer.
  • The device may spontaneously fall out, for example, during active sports or lifting weights.

Perhaps the most serious disadvantage of using an IUD is the increased risk of developing an ectopic pregnancy due to a violation contractile activity fallopian tubes and the uterus itself.

Rules of Use

The intrauterine device does not apply to simple methods protection against unplanned pregnancy. Its use will require you to comply with several important rules. And the question of whether this method of contraception is suitable for you should be decided only by a gynecologist after examination and tests. The type of spiral that suits you is also selected by your doctor. Typically, experts advise using this type of contraception if:

  • The woman has increased fertility and unwanted pregnancies happen too often.
  • There are diseases for which pregnancy is contraindicated.
  • The woman or her partner has genetic pathologies that also prevent pregnancy.

How is an IUD installed?

You can install the IUD regardless of the phase of the menstrual cycle, but doctors still advise doing it from the fourth to the eighth day, if you count from the first day of your period. Before the procedure, microflora smears must be taken, general analysis blood and urine, carried out ultrasound examination to exclude pregnancy and determine the size of the uterus.

The procedure itself is quite simple and painless, so it is performed on an outpatient basis and without anesthesia. However, in the first days after installation you may be bothered discomfort lower abdomen, aching or cramping pain that normally goes away on its own.

A follow-up examination is required after a week, and during this week it is better for the woman to abstain from:

  1. From intense physical activity.
  2. Hot baths.
  3. Taking laxatives.
  4. Sexual life.
  5. Taking aspirin or medicines containing acetylsalicylic acid, as this may cause bleeding.

After each menstruation, you will need to independently check the presence of threads from the spiral, and control examinations, in the absence of complaints, will need to be carried out every six months.

How is an IUD removed?

It is not necessary to wait for the entire duration of the spiral. If you wish, you can ask your gynecologist to remove it at any time. In the absence of complications, removal, as well as installation, is not particularly difficult and is performed on an outpatient basis. The doctor just needs to pull the antennae. However, despite the simplicity of the procedure, you should not carry it out yourself at home.

IN in rare cases, for example, if the tendrils of the spiral break or penetrate the wall of the uterus, its removal can be carried out using a hysteroscope. This device is a tube with special channels for scissors or forceps. In this case, the procedure can be carried out in a hospital.

Before removing the IUD, the gynecologist also necessarily prescribes an ultrasound in order to clarify its location in the uterine cavity. During removal or immediately after it, pain and bloody discharge.

Contraindications

The IUD protection method is not suitable for everyone, although it works well in most cases. Like any contraceptive, the intrauterine device has its own contraindications. Conventionally, they can be divided into absolute and relative, when the final decision is made by the doctor after the necessary tests.

The first group includes:

  • Acute or frequently exacerbating inflammatory diseases of the female sphere.
  • Suspicions about malignant tumors cervix or body of the uterus.
  • Uterine bleeding, the cause of which is not clear.
  • Suspicion of pregnancy.
  • Pathological changes in the uterus that may interfere with the correct insertion or placement of the device.
  • Malformations of the cervix or the uterus itself.

The second group of contraindications includes:

  • Heavy, painful and prolonged, longer than six days, menstruation or the presence of bleeding in the period between them.
  • Endometriosis of the cervix and ovaries.
  • Abnormal configuration of the uterus or too small size.
  • Myomatous nodes, severely deforming the uterine cavity.
  • Previous ectopic pregnancy.
  • Allergies to the components included in the spiral, for example, to polymeric substances or copper.
  • Low hemoglobin levels, bleeding disorders, or other blood disorders.

In some situations with such relative contraindications, like uterine fibroids, abundant and painful menstruation or endometrial pathology purpose hormonal IUDs often, on the contrary, it is justified.

Side effects

Any intrauterine device is inherently a foreign body and even completely healthy body it takes time to come to terms with his presence. Therefore, side effects and discomfort usually occur in the first days after installation.

Most often this is:

  1. Aching or cramping pain in the lower abdomen, which, according to statistics, occurs in approximately 5–10% of patients.
  2. More abundant than usual menstrual bleeding, which happen in 24% of cases. Rarely, such bleeding can lead to the development of iron deficiency anemia.
  3. Increased risk of inflammatory diseases in approximately 0.5–4% of cases.
  4. Spontaneous prolapse of the intrauterine device, occurring in 6–15% of cases.

If you have severe pain, unusual discharge, bleeding unrelated to menstruation and a fever, then you need to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Also, do not delay the visit if your next period is late or if other signs of pregnancy appear, for example, morning sickness or pain and swelling of the mammary glands.

If you did not feel the threads of the spiral or, on the contrary, felt its plastic tip, then, most likely, the IUD has moved from its place and no longer performs its main function. In such a situation, you should also consult a doctor.