A progesterone intrauterine device - proe-JES-ter-one IN-tra-YOU-ta-rin de-VICE - also called an IUD is inserted by a health care professional into a woman's uterus as a contraceptive - birth control method.
The progesterone IUD works by causing changes in the uterus that help to prevent pregnancy. The fertilization of the woman's egg with her partner's sperm is less likely with an IUD in place, but it can occur. Even so, the IUD makes it harder for the fertilized egg to become attached to the uterus walls, making it hard to become pregnant. The hormone, progesterone, released from the IUD is believed to improve the effects of the device. After the IUD is removed, most women trying to become pregnant can become pregnant.
Studies have shown that pregnancy can occur in up to 2 of each 100 women using a progesterone IUD during the first year of use . Other birth control methods such as not having intercourse, taking birth control pills - the Pill, or having surgery to become sterile are as effective or more effective. Methods that do not work as well include using condoms, diaphragms, vaginal sponges, or spermicides. Discuss with your health care professional what your options are for birth control and the chance and benefits of each method.
IUDs do not protect a woman from sexually transmitted diseases - STDs, including human immunodeficiency virus - HIV or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome - AIDS . The use of latex - rubber condoms or abstinence - not having intercourse is recommended for protection from these diseases.
Your lifestyle will determine how safe and reliable the progesterone IUD will be for you . Problems that may occur with use of an IUD are far less likely to occur in women who have a long-term relationship with one sexual partner. Always it is important that your sexual partner not have any other sexual partners. If you or your partner has more than one sexual partner it increases your risk of getting an infection in the vagina. If an infection is present in the vagina or uterus when the IUD is in the uterus it may make an infection more serious If your lifestyle changes while you are using an IUD or you get or are exposed to a sexually transmitted disease, call your health care professional .
Progesterone IUDs are available only from your family doctor or other authorized health care professional in the following form:
Some commonly using brand names are:
In the USA
† Not commercially available in Canada.