IUD (Intrauterine Device)

Intrauterine Devices, or IUDs, are small, soft, T-shaped device with a nylon string attached to it. It is put in the uterus to help prevent pregnancy. Depending on the type of the IUD, it can help prevent pregnancy for 3 to 10 years.

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Copper IUDs are favored by patients who hormone free birth control that is more effective than the pill. It is also a great option for people who want to have monthly bleeding, either for reassurance or beliefs.

Copper IUD users can expect heavier and longer periods with more cramps, so may not be a great option if you already have heavy or painful periods. They are often not covered by insurance, but cost much less than the hormonal IUDs.  

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Hormonal IUDs come in 2 sizes. The smaller one (Kyleena) is recommended for those who are  younger (including teens)  or those who never had a pregnancy. They last 5 years and are covered under most drug plans, including OHIP+ if you are under 25 yo. Hormonal IUD users like that their periods are often much lighter, and about 20-40% will report that their periods stop altogether, which is completely ok.

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We place over 700 IUDs a year and complications are very rare. Everyone's IUD insertion experiences are different and most do very well. The whole procedure will only take 1-2 minutes usually. It will help to take some pain relievers just before your insertion appointment. 

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