Advantages and disadvantages of the IUD as a contraceptive method

Many women opt for the IUD as a contraceptive method in order to avoid pregnancy. It is a device with a characteristic T-shape that is placed in the uterus and must be inserted by a gynecologist through the vagina and cervix. The IUD is a very comfortable method that has a 99% contraceptive effectiv

Many women opt for the IUD as a contraceptive method in order to avoid pregnancy. It is a device with a characteristic T-shape that is placed in the uterus and must be inserted by a gynecologist through the vagina and cervix.

The IUD is a very comfortable method that has a 99% contraceptive effectiveness. But, what are its benefits and disadvantages? In Guiainfantil.com we find the pros and cons of the IUD so as not to get pregnant.

4 advantages of the IUD as a contraceptive method

1.Comfort: Unlike other contraceptive methods such as the pill, the vaginal ring or the contraceptive patch, the copper IUD can remain implanted in the uterine cavity for five years. You do not have to remember to change it during each cycle of ovulation or with the arrival of menstruation.

2.Easy implantation and removal: Putting and removing the IUD is a very simple process carried out by a gynecologist quickly. This is another advantage of this hormonal device, since it is the gynecologist who implanted it in the uterus and who has to withdraw it when desired. This intrauterine copper device is inserted normally in the first days of the period, with the help of a thin plastic tube that is finally removed so that the T remains in the uterus.

3.Does not imply hormonal rest: When a woman stays for a few years taking the contraceptive pill, it is advisable to take prolonged breaks in which she does not take it, as recommended by gynecologists, because it can cause menstrual problems or affect fertility in the future. However, this does not happen with the IUD, since it may be implanted in the uterus for up to five years without it being necessary to change it. This is because there are no conception problems after using the IUD for several years. 4. Long-term method

: Undoubtedly, it is the most successful contraceptive method for women who do not want to get pregnantin a long period of time because the gynecologist does not have to remove it once a month as is the case with the patch or vaginal ring, nor is it necessary to remember each day as it happens with the contraceptive pill, which must be taken daily to avoid pregnancy and regulate hormones.4 disadvantages of the IUD as a contraceptive method 1. Implantation and withdrawal by a gynecologist

: Although for many women the implantation and removal of the IUD in the gynecologist's office is an advantage in terms of comfort, for others it may be something negative unable to take it off or put it on themselves. The fundamental difference of this device with other contraceptive methods is that it can not be placed or removed without the help of a medical professional, who is the one who must implant it and remove it once you want to rest or become pregnant.

2.Does not protect against STDs: While the condom is the safest method of contraception, since it prevents pregnancies and also

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), the IUD does not protect against contracting any of them. Therefore, if you want to have completely safe sex you should use a condom even if the woman has implanted the device inside the uterus.3. Risk of ectopic pregnancy:An important counter of the IUD as a contraceptive method is that it can cause ectopic or extra-uterine pregnancies. This occurs when the egg that has been fertilized by a sperm is implanted

outside the uterus, and that occurs in one in every fifty pregnancies. The fact that the IUD is implanted inside the uterus, multiplies the chances that the woman suffers an ectopic pregnancy, despite its high contraceptive reliability.4. Side effects: Although for many women it is very comfortable and does not generate gynecological problems, for many others the IUD is a real torment. Many gynecologists recommend a previous study so that there are no menstrual problems, since some women have irregular bleeding between ovulation cycles, and it may be painful for them to wear this device. The IUD can be very comfortable as a contraceptive method, but it can also lead to side effects such as very heavy and painful rules or abdominal pain.