Which IUD should I choose?

I receive many questions about IUDs (intrauterine devices) and because of older versions of these devices were harmful, their current offsprings have gotten a bad rap. In fact, IUDs are
extremely effecitve and patients who use them are very satisfied.  We only have about 6% of women in the United States who use birth control using IUDs. Part of this is becasue are mothers are remembering IUDs from the 60's and how they decreased fertility and increase the risk of uterine infection. We also still think that they are not for women who have never been pregnant, when in fact, they are a great idea for these women.  Currently, there are three types of IUDs on the market: Click on each for a link to their site.

• Skyla
• Mirena
• Paragard

Hormonal
Skyla are Mirena are progesterone containing IUDs and are made of plastic. The Paragard is a non-hormonal containing IUD made of copper. The Skyla and Mirena work by thickening the cervical mucus and blocking sperm from entering the uterus. They also work to inhibit ovulation and implanation.  

Non-Hormonal
The Paragard IUD works by preventing fertilization.  When there is a foreign body in the uterus, it causes an inflammatory reaction which disruptions fertilization, implanation and is hostle to sperm.

For more information, click of each link to see the prescribers information and talk to your healthcare provider.