Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, says an intrauterine device (IUD) is one of the most effective forms of contraception, working for years with very little daily effort.
An IUD, also known as an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) or the “loop”, is a small device, usually shaped like a T, placed inside the uterus. It can prevent pregnancy for several years but can be removed if a woman wants to stop using it or try to have a baby.
IUDs are more than 99% effective. Unlike the pill, their effectiveness does not depend on remembering to take something every day. However, the best contraceptive choice depends on a woman’s health, periods, preferences, and plans for future pregnancy.
What Is the Difference Between Hormonal and Copper?
There are two main types of IUD: hormonal and copper.
A hormonal IUD slowly releases a small amount of progestogen into the uterus. This thickens the mucus in the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to reach an egg. It also thins the lining of the uterus.
A hormonal IUD could prevent pregnancy for approximately three to eight years, depending on the product used. It often makes periods lighter, shorter, and less painful. Some women eventually stop having periods while using it. This is generally not harmful and does not mean that blood is building up inside the body.
A copper IUD contains no hormones. The copper affects sperm movement and function, preventing fertilisation. Depending on the device available, it may provide contraception for approximately five to 10 years.
The copper IUD starts working immediately. It can also be used as emergency contraception when inserted within five days of unprotected sex. A doctor or nurse must first check that it is a safe and suitable option.
Why Do Women Choose an IUD?
Once an IUD is in place, there is no pill to remember, injection appointment to keep, or contraceptive to use every time a couple has sex.
Other possible benefits include Long-lasting protection against pregnancy, a quick return to fertility after removal, no interruption during sex, no oestrogen, lighter periods with many hormonal IUDs, a hormone-free option with the copper IUD, no need to collect repeat contraceptive prescriptions.
IUDs do not cause infertility. Fertility returns quickly after removal, although the time it takes to become pregnant differs from one woman to another.
What Happens During Insertion?
An IUD may be fitted at a clinic, medical practice, or family planning service. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes.
A speculum is placed inside the vagina, similar to what happens during a cervical screening examination. The doctor or nurse then gently passes the IUD through the cervix and into the uterus.
Some women feel mild discomfort, while others experience stronger pain or cramping. Anyone who feels nervous, or who has found gynaecological examinations painful in the past, should ask about pain relief options before the procedure.
Light bleeding, spotting, and cramping similar to period pain may continue for a few days. Most women can return to their normal routine quickly, although resting for the remainder of the day may help.
Condoms or another contraceptive method may be needed for seven days, depending on when a hormonal IUD is inserted. The clinic should explain when protection begins and when to return for a checkup.
Possible Side Effects and Risks
Bleeding changes are the most common side effect. A copper IUD may cause heavier, longer, or more painful periods, particularly during the first few months. This may not be the best option for someone who already has very heavy periods or anaemia.
A hormonal IUD may cause irregular bleeding or spotting for the first three to six months. Periods usually become lighter over time.
Rare complications include the IUD moving, coming out, or perforating the wall of the uterus during insertion. There is also a small risk of pelvic infection shortly after insertion, usually when an untreated sexually transmitted infection is already present.
An IUD does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Condoms are still important when protection against infection is needed.
Conclusion
An IUD provides reliable, long-term contraception with little daily effort. Ask a doctor or nurse about the available options, costs, possible changes to your periods, and where the device can be inserted. Have the IUD checked if you cannot feel the threads, they feel different, or you think the device is coming out. Use another form of contraception until it has been checked.
Seek urgent medical help if you develop severe lower abdominal pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge, very heavy bleeding, pain during sex, or a positive pregnancy test. Pregnancy with an IUD is rare, but an urgent check is needed to rule out an ectopic pregnancy.
Affinity Health can help members access a doctor or nurse to discuss contraceptive choices, side effects, and worrying symptoms.
About Affinity Health
Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading health cover provider, offering you a range of options at affordable rates, including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of having medical insurance that meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Our healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our members peace of mind and the highest standard of service. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X.
