Birth control is a very personal choice for women. For those who want long-term birth control without taking daily, weekly or monthly contraceptives, intrauterine devices, or IUDs, may be a solution. There are a few different options in IUD birth control, which can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. Our GYN team at FEM Women’s Wellness offers intrauterine devices (IUDs) insertion and removal at our medical clinic in the Lake Tahoe and Reno, NV, area.
IUDs work by preventing sperm from reaching the eggs in the fallopian tubes. These are very small plastic devices that contain either hormones or copper, both of which can impact sperm movement through the uterus. The intrauterine device is inserted into the uterus to block the pathway of sperm traveling through to the fallopian tubes.
Hormonal IUDs release hormones that provide two methods of preventing pregnancy. The hormones thicken the mucus lining of the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to pass through to the uterus. Secondly, hormones released impact egg release. These effects combined together make hormonal IUDs very effective.
Copper IUDs use copper wire wrapped around a small plastic, T-shaped device to prevent sperm passage to fertilize eggs. Copper is toxic to both sperm and eggs, helping to prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years.
IUD Birth Control Procedures
At FEM Women’s Wellness, we offer placement or insertion of IUD birth control at our facility. IUDs are not right for everyone – these devices are best for those who want a long-term birth control device and do not have any reproductive abnormalities, infections or uterine disorders. Once the IUD is inserted, pregnancy may be prevented for up to 10 years, depending on the device. The IUD can be removed at any time when a woman is experiencing complications or is ready to try to conceive.
There are several IUDs to choose from, with various pros and cons for each device. If you are interested in learning more about IUD birth control or you need an IUD removed, contact us at FEM Women’s Wellness. Call our clinic in the Reno and Lake Tahoe, NV, area to schedule your appointment.