Advantages and disadvantages of intrauterine devices (IUDs)
The following table lists the advantages and disadvantages of using intrauterine devices (IUDs) as a birth control method.
Consideration
IUDs
Advantages
- More than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy1
- Most cost-effective method of birth control over time
- Easy to use
- Does not require interruption of foreplay or intercourse
- Does not require co-operation of sexual partner
- Safe to use while breast-feeding
- Can be removed whenever you have problems or want to stop using it. Fertility returns with the first ovulation cycle following IUD removal.
- Progestin (LNg IUD) relieves heavy menstrual bleeding and cramping in most women
- Copper IUD can be used for emergency contraception within 5 days of unprotected intercourse
- Can be inserted after a normal vaginal delivery, a caesarean section, or a first-trimester abortion
Disadvantages
- Costs several hundred dollars for insertion. (Some community clinics may offer insertion and removal at a reduced rate or free to low-income clients.) If the IUD is expelled, it costs just as much to get a new one. Having an IUD removed is also costly. The costs of IUD insertion and removal may be covered by your provincial health plan.
- Only a health professional can remove the IUD. Never attempt to remove the IUD yourself or allow a partner to try to remove it.
- Does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or HIV. (A condom is needed for STI protection.)
- When inserted, can spread a genital infection into the uterus, leading to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in the first months after insertion. This is why you are screened for STIs before getting an IUD.
| Author: | Merrill Hayden Carrie Henley | Last Updated: August 16, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine | |
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