Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a long-acting form of birth control that are over 99% effective.
Progestin helps prevent pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus, thinning the uterine lining, and inhibiting sperm movement.
In some cases, hormonal IUDs can also help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and cramping.
Esperanza33 / Getty Images
Esperanza33 / Getty Images
What Is a Hormonal IUD?
A hormonal IUD is a small, T-shaped contraceptive rig healthcare providers insert into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
How Is the Hormonal IUD Different from Nonhormonal IUDs?
Nonhormonal IUDs contain copper, which creates a hostile environment for sperm.
Effect on Menstrual Bleeding
Hormonal IUDs help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and ease painful menstrual cramps.
AEH develops when there is an excess of estrogen and too little progesterone.
Side Effects of Hormonal IUDs
Hormonal IUDs are generally well-tolerated, but some people experience side effects.
It begins working immediately if inserted during the first seven days of your menstrual cycle.
Otherwise, it takes about seven days to prevent pregnancy.
Mirena is T-shaped, measuring 32 millimeters (mm) long by 32 mm wide.
The rig contains 52 mg of the hormone levonorgestrel and gradually releases it into the body.
Within the first 24 days, it releases about 21 mcg per day.
Kyleena
Kyleenaprevents pregnancy for up to five years after insertion.
Kyleena is a small T-shaped IUD measuring 28 mm long by 30 mm wide.
It initially releases 17.5 micrograms (mcg) of levonorgestrel per day, decreasing to 7.4 mcg/day over time.
Liletta
Lilettaeffectively prevents pregnancy for up to eight years after insertion.
If inserted during the first seven days of your menstrual cycle, it begins working immediately following insertion.
Otherwise, it takes seven days to work.
Liletta is a T-shaped gear measuring 32 mm wide and 32 mm tall.
It initially releases 20 mcg of levonorgestrel daily, decreasing to about 6.5 mcg/day after eight years.
Skyla
Skyla prevents pregnancy for up to three years.
It initially releases 14 mcg of levonorgestrel daily, decreasing to about five mcg daily.
They may test you for STIs to lower the risk of bacterial infection.
After the Procedure
It’s normal to feel cramping or backachesafter an IUD insertion.
Resting and holding a heating pad over your lower abdomen can help ease discomfort.
This string allows a healthcare provider to remove the IUD when it’s time.
Your healthcare provider will gently pull on the IUD string to slide it out.
Insertion and removal are straightforward procedures, though some discomfort can occur during and shortly after the procedure.
Ask a healthcare provider about the risks and benefits if you are considering a hormonal IUD.
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