Intrauterine device (IUD)
PROS/CONS
Pros
Don’t need to remember to take/use it every day or every time you have sex.
Can’t forget to take it or use it in the wrong way. It is also not affected by vomiting or diarrhoea like some methods of contraception.
Is >99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Upon discontinuation of use, fertility should return to normal.
Prevents pregnancy for up to 5-10 years, depending on the IUD.
The IUD doesn’t contain any hormones.
With the IUD in place you don't need to worry about contraception in the moment.
It can be used when breastfeeding.
No hormonal side effects such as weight gain, mood swings and breast tenderness.
Cons
Periods may be heavier and more painful than with hormonal methods.
Does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
It requires a trained healthcare provider to fit and remove the IUD.
The pros and cons listed are not exhaustive. Talk to your doctor or nurse for more information.
SIDE EFFECTS
IUD side effects
There are no hormonal side effects with the IUD, such as acne, headaches, or breast tenderness.
Women with an IUD may experience heavier and longer bleeding.
Weight gain has not been reported as a side effect of the IUD.
Mood swings has not been reported as a side effect of the IUD.
Acne has not been reported as a side effect of the IUD.
Women with an IUD may experience painful periods and lower abdominal or back pain
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Pelvic infection - There is a small risk of infection when the IUD is put in.
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Anaemia - If menstrual bleeding is prolonged and heavy.
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Damage to the womb - There’s a very small risk that the IUD might go through your uterus (womb) or cervix when it’s put in. If it does happen, the IUD may have to be removed by surgery.
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Rejection - Risk of expulsion of the IUD.
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Pregnancy outside the womb (ectopic pregnancy) - Possible but rare. If the IUD fails and you become pregnant, there is an increased risk the pregnancy will be ectopic.
PP-UN-WHC-GB-0074 September 2023
