The intrauterine device (IUD) is one of the most effective forms of birth control on the market, but only nine percent of women of childbearing age in the U.S. use it. Changing that rate, however, is the aim of many medical groups and professionals. Why? It comes down to three good reasons:

1. It’s effective. IUDs offer a failure rate of one in 100 per year, meaning that only one women out of 100 will become pregnant while wearing an IUD over the course a year. The failure rate for birth control pills in nine in 100; condoms offer about a 12 in 100 failure rate.
2. It’s safe. Studies by organizations such as the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have shown that IUDs are safe. Complications and infections are rare and discomfort is minimal. The AAP even recently recommended IUDs as the best form of birth control for teen girls. The IUD’s safety and efficacy were touted as reasons for that recommendation.
3. It’s hassle-free. A physician inserts an IUD into a woman’s uterus, where it stays for 3-12 years. Progestin or copper, depending on the type of IUD, is emitted from the device to kill sperm.

Despite these facts, women are still are not using IUDs for two reasons: 1) They are unaware of it and its efficacy; and 2) Misconceptions abound. The most popular form of IUD from the 70s and 80s are associated with miscarriages, infections and other adverse side effects and eventually pulled from the market. Today’s options for IUDs are safe and effective.

If you’re interested in learning more about IUDs and how it fits into your family plan, give us a call. We’re happy to discuss the IUD in more detail to determine if it’s right for you.

Interested in women’s sexual health? Contact us for an appointment.