Leading edge contemporary birth control
IUDs
Long-acting, immediately reversible and highly effective (99.2-99.8%), the IUD is recommended as the first-line method of contraception. They are great for youth, adolescents, adults, immediate postpartum and for later reproductive years including peri-menopausal women experiencing abnormal periods.
Hormonal IUDs are also used for cycle control in women struggling with heavy and/or painful periods.
One of the greatest benefits of an IUD ,is that its success does not depend on the user, as once it is placed, you can simply forget and not worry. Also, it is discrete and cost-effective.
IUDs are also effective as emergency contraception if placed within seven days of unprotected intercourse.
Many GPs do not offer IUD insertions or placements, so we’re here for you.
IUD Basics
The IUD is a small, soft T-shaped device that is inserted into your uterus, also known as your womb, to prevent pregnancy.
Some IUDs contain a hormone (Mirena and Kyleena LNG IUS) called progesterone which can reduce menstrual bleeding or stop menstruation altogether.
Whereas , Copper IUDs , are hormone free and the top choice for women who want to avoid hormones.
Let’s sit down and see what best suits your lifestyle.
How effective is an IUD?
An IUD is one of the most effective contraception methods – it is 99% effective and lasts between 3 to 8 years, depending on the type.
Types Of IUDs Offered In Our IUD Clinic in Langley
There are two styles of IUDs available in Canada.
1. Mirena or Kyleena are hormonal (progesterone-based) IUDs and are free of Estrogen . Mirena can be used for up to 8 years for contraception in women 25 years or older. For women younger than 25, it's effective for 5 years. Kyleena IUD is a 5 year device. Mirena is also indicated for management of heavy or painful periods.
Mirena and Kyleena IUD continuously release low levels of levonorgestrel, which is a progestin, much like the hormone progesterone produced by the ovaries. Levonorgestrel thickens cervical mucous so sperm and ovum do not meet. It also thins the lining of the uterus, which means your periods will become lighter and might stop altogether, making it an excellent choice for women with heavy periods, or for athlete’s, or any women wanting to avoid menstrual bleeding.
The IUD can be removed at anytime, is safe in breastfeeding and does not effect fertility .
2. Copper IUD is the only form of brith control that is completely hormone free and are an excellent choice for women who prefer to avoid hormones for whatever reason including breastfeeding mothers and women with depression or anxiety who want to avoid hormones that might alter mood.
Copper IUDs have a lifespan of 3, 5 or 10 years depending on the style.
It consists of a small piece of flexible plastic, shaped like a T , that has copper wrapped around it. That’s why it’s called a copper IUD.
Non-hormonal Copper IUDs release copper into the uterine cavity preventing pregnancy by stopping sperm from fertilizing an egg and reducing sperm movement. It also causes thickening of the cervical mucous which acts as a plug preventing sperm from entering the uterus.
The copper that is released inside the uterus can make the periods last longer, or they might become more painful and/or heavier which ususally settles after the first few cycles . However, if this persists at 6 months speak to your health-care provider heavy flow can lead to Iron loss and anaemia.
IUD Insertion
The IUD can be inserted anytime during your cycle as long as we can confirm you are not pregnant. For women who have never been pregnant, it is sometimes best to book your appointment for an IUD insertion during or just after your period.
IUD Care
Most women return to work immediately after an IUD insertion or IUD removal. For the first 24 hours, avoid placing anything inside the vagina - this lowers the risk of infection. We recommend showers and use of pads or panty liners during this time. After 24 hours, resume all normal activities including hot tubs, swimming, use of menstrual cups or tampons.
IUD Removal
When you choose to change contraception methods, plan a pregnancy, replace your expiring IUD or simply discontinue use, the IUD can be easily removed at our clinic.
