Intrauterine device (IUD) has been in use since a very long time to control the unwanted pregnancies. Intrauterine device (IUD) is a T-shaped device made up of plastic. This device is put into the uterus of the women; it acts by killing the sperm.
Levonorgestrel (LNg) IUD and Copper IUD are the two types of IUD which are generally used. The LNg releases levonorgestrel which is a type of the hormone progesterone; it can be effective up to five years. It not only kills the sperm but also makes the mucus very thick which prevents the sperm from entering into the uterus. Thus during ovulation there is no chance of the formation of zygote and hence no chance of pregnancy.
The Copper Intrauterine device (IUD) is very commonly used and it is effective up to 10 years. The copper IUD kills the sperms by producing poisonous fluids. The fluid contains enzymes, copper ions, prostaglandins and white blood cells.
The IUD can be implanted at any time; the only criterion is that you should not be pregnant. You require a doctor for insertion; the process gets completed in just few minutes. The presence of IUD can be ensured by feeling the string, a small portion of which remains outside. After insertion, bleeding and cramp may occur for one or two days and then everything becomes normal.
The IUD may result inn hormonal imbalance and may also create some menstrual problems. It can also cause inflammation of the uterus. If pregnancy takes place even while you are having IUD, then you have to get it removes.
Never go for Intrauterine device (IUD) if you have sexually transmitted disease, have an infection in your vagina or uterus, have pelvic inflammatory disease, have bleeding from uterus or other related diseases.
It is a simple and reliable method but requires proper guidance; take proper advice from the doctor.