The gynecologist and sexologist Mauren Castilla in Cartagena explains the different intrauterine devices such as copper T, Mirena, Jaydess and IUD Gold T.
What is the IUD or Intrauterine Device?
The IUD is a birth control method that is shaped like a "T" and slowly releases hormones into the uterus. It can last anywhere from 3 to 12 years, depending on the type you get.
There are two types of contraceptive IUDs: hormonal and non-hormonal (copper). The hormonal IUD (Mirena) releases small amounts of the hormone progestin into the uterus. The non-hormonal IUD (ParaGard T 380A) uses copper to prevent pregnancy and can be used for up to 12 years.
Your doctor inserts both types of IUDs into the opening of your cervix.
How does contraceptive T work?
The hormones in the IUD prevent your body from releasing an egg each month. It also causes the cervical mucus to thicken, which prevents sperm from reaching the egg. If you are already pregnant when the IUD is inserted, it will not work for you.
Gynecologists recommend that a copper-bearing IUD be inserted within 7 days of the start of your period. A hormonal IUD can be inserted at any time, as long as you and your doctor are sure you are not pregnant.
What types of intrauterine devices are on the market?
Hormonal IUDs are Mirena and Jaydess used for up to five years.
Copper T IUD: ParaGard T 380A, which can be used for up to 12 years.
Why is the contraceptive IUD a good choice for women? ?
The IUD is a good option for women who want a long-term reversible method of birth control. It is one of the most effective forms of birth control and does not require any daily action on the part of you or your partner. You can also take it out at any time.
Are intrauterine devices safe?
An IUD is a very low-maintenance birth control method, which means it's as safe as using a condom or using the pill. You should know that there are some rare risks associated with both types of IUDs, such as:
- Irregular bleeding during the first 3 to 6 months of using an IUD
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Serious infection called sepsis
However, these risks are rare and most women do not experience them. The copper IUD may also be linked to a shorter lifespan of the endometrium (the lining of the uterus), but this is also a rare risk.
Can I have an intrauterine device inserted if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, it is safe for your doctor to insert a copper-bearing IUD while you are breastfeeding. Hormonal IUDs may not be right for you if you're breastfeeding because they can decrease the amount of breast milk you make.
How is an intrauterine device placed in the uterus?
Your gynecologist will use a speculum to open your vagina and view your cervix. You may feel a slight pinch, sting, or cramp when the insertion tube is placed into your uterus to place the device.
Your gynecologist might also check to make sure the IUD is in place.or properly within you. After insertion, you may experience pain, cramps, dizziness, fainting, and spotting for a few hours. Your next period may be heavier than normal.
After inserting the IUD, you can use tampons. You will also need to check the strings every month to make sure your IUD is still in place. If you no longer feel the strings, call your doctor right away to make an appointment.
What are the contraindications for IUD use?
The copper-bearing IUD should not be used if you have a pelvic infection, cervical cancer, uterine cancer, or unexplained vaginal bleeding. The hormonal IUD should not be used if you are pregnant, have breast cancer, liver disease, or a history of heart attack, stroke, and blood clots.
How do I know if my intrauterine device is still in place?
Your gynecologist will show you how to check your IUD strings. If you can no longer feel the threads, call your doctor right away.
Do intrauterine devices protect against sexually transmitted infections?
No, IUDs don't provide protection against STIs, so you'll need to use a condom if you don't want to get one.
What else should I know about intrauterine devices?
Both types of IUDs can make your periods lighter and shorter; however, the hormonal type can make them heavier. You may also experience pregnancy-like side effects when using an IUD, such as:
- Mood swings
- Swelling
- Headaches
- Acne
- Back and leg pain
Although your period may be lighter and shorter, you can still have your periods while using an IUD. If you don't want to have a monthly period while using the IUD, ask your doctor about using birth control pills to suppress bleeding and keep your hormone levels in balance.
Can I use tampons if I have an intrauterine device?
Yes, you can use them, although it is not recommended to leave a tampon in for more than 6 hours. This means that if you insert a tampon at 9:00 a.m. m., you must pick it up by 3:00 p.m. m.
Can I use a menstrual cup with an intrauterine device?
No, do not use a menstrual cup during your period while using the IUD. A menstrual cup is designed to be used inside the vagina and can dislodge the IUD from its position.
Mirena
How does the Mirena device work?
The Mirena intrauterine device is a small, T-shaped plastic device that contains the hormone progestin. This hormone prevents your body from releasing an egg each month. It also causes the cervical mucus to thicken so that sperm cannot reach the uterus and fertilize an egg. The progestin in this IUD also reduces bleeding and menstrual cramps. Mirena is effective for up to 5 years.
What are the benefits of the Mirena device?
The Mirena device can stop your periods altogether or make them lighter and less painful. This IUD is also effective for up to 5 years, so you don't have to think about contraception as often.
What are the side effects of using the Mirena intrauterine device?
Some women may experience pain and bleeding when they first start using the Mirena device. This usually goes away after a few weeks. Side effects may also include:
- Mood swings
- Vaginal dryness
- Headaches
- Acne
Some women may experience weight gain or changes in their sex drive while using this IUD.
Do not use Mirena if you have breast cancer or are at high risk of breast cancer.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- Fever
- Vaginal bleeding that is not related to your period
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
Diu Jaydess Bayer
How does the Jaydess Bayer device work?
The Jaydess Bayer intrauterine device releases a low dose of the hormone progestin. This IUD is smaller than the Mirena device and is recommended for women who have not had children. Like the Mirena, this IUD also thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from fertilizing the egg. And, like the Mirena, this IUD makes your period lighter and less painful.
The Jaydess Bayer device is effective for up to 3 years.
What are the benefits of using the Jaydess Bayer intrauterine device?
Jaydess Bayer can also stop your periods altogether or make them lighter and less painful. This IUD is also effective for up to 3 years, so you don't have to think about contraception as often.
What are the side effects of using the Jaydess Bayer intrauterine device?
Some women may experience pain and bleeding when they first start using the Jaydess Bayer device. This usually goes away after a few weeks. Side effects may also include:
- Mood swings
- Vaginal dryness
- Weight gain or changes in your sexual desire
Do not use this IUD if you have breast cancer or are at high risk for breast cancer.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- Fever
- Vaginal bleeding that is not related to your period
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
Differences between Jaydess and Mirena
- Size - Jaydess is smaller than Mirena.
- Efficacy: Mirena is effective for 5 years, Jaydess is effective for 3 years.
- Duration of use: In terms of time of use, Jaydess wears out after three years, while Mirena can be worn for up to five years.
- Price: Mirena costs more than Jaydess.
In the end, both IUDs have different benefits, but they do exactly what they're supposed to do: protect you from unwanted pregnancy. After all, a decision is personal and depends on your circumstances, so if you have any further questions or concerns, be sure to ask your doctor.
Copper T - ParaGard
The Copper T device does not contain hormones and is wrapped with a small amount of copper. This IUD can be used for up to ten years and is more effective than hormonal IUDs. Paraguard is effective for up to 12 years.
What are the side effects of using the Copper T intrauterine device?
Some women may experience pain and bleeding when they first start using this IUD. These symptoms usually go away after a few weeks. Side effects may also include:
- Mood swings
- Vaginal dryness
- Weight gain or changes in your sexual desire
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- Fever
- Vaginal bleeding that is not related to your period
- Coughing up blood
What are the advantages of the Copper T?
This IUD is very effective for up to 12 years, so you don't have to think about contraception as often.
- Low cost
- No effect on hormones or periods
What are the disadvantages of the copper T?
The disadvantages of the copper T are:
- Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy
- Requires a follow-up visit with a doctor to remove the device due to the high possibility of perforating the uterus during insertion.
Differences between copper T and hormonal T
- Size: The Copper T is about the same size as the Mirena IUD.
- Hormones - Copper T has no hormones but Hormonal T does.
- Duration of use: Copper T can be used for up to 10 years, while Hormonal T can be used for 5 years.
- Price: Mirena costs more than Copper T.
In the end, both IUDs have different benefits, but they do exactly what they're supposed to do: protect you from unwanted pregnancy. After all, a decision is personal and depends on your circumstances, so if you have any further questions or concerns, be sure to ask your doctor.
IUD Gold T
IUD Gold T is a hormone-free intrauterine contraceptive device. No unwanted side effects
Schedule your appointment with the gynecologist and sexologist Mauren Castilla in Cartagena.