Now Offering Same-day Appointments to Get an IUD
An intrauterine device (IUD – or sometimes referred to as an IUC) is a highly effective, long-acting, reversible contraceptive method of birth control that is successfully used by people all over the world to plan their families and space their pregnancies. It takes only a few minutes to be inserted into the uterus and, once in place, is one of the most effective methods of birth control out there. Insertion by a trained clinician is super easy and does not require general anesthesia or any type of surgery — and it’s super safe. Did we mention you can’t feel an IUD after it’s inserted? Talk about amazing.
- Highly effective: IUDs are over 99% effective preventing pregnancy!
- Long acting: IUDs can be used effectively for anywhere from 3 to 12 years!
- Reversible: You can have your IUD taken out anytime you like — either to switch birth control methods or to start trying to conceive right away!
What is an IUD (Intrauterine Device)?
IUDs are small plastic devices that are placed inside your uterus where they work to prevent pregnancy. It takes only a few minutes to be placed and they are one of the most effective methods of birth control available. Insertion by a trained clinician is super easy and does not require general anesthesia or any type of surgery — and it’s super safe.
There are some major benefits to using an IUD over other birth control methods because it is really effective, can last up to 12 years, and can be taken out as soon as you are ready to stop using them. Did we mention you also can’t feel an IUD after it’s inserted? Talk about amazing.
What are my IUD Options?
There are several major brands of IUDs that are FDA approved in the United States including Paragard, Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla. The types of IUD carafem offers can be pooled into two choices: hormonal and non-hormonal.
Hormonal IUD
The hormonal IUD releases a small but steady dose of the hormone levonorgestrel. It can be in place for up to 3-6 years and takes around a week to be effective. It often makes periods lighter and shorter.
This type of IUD works by thickening the mucus in your cervix to block sperm from reaching an egg. Be aware, they can also stop your ovulation cycle so that there are no eggs present to be fertilized.
Non-hormonal (Copper IUD)
The non-hormonal IUD is also commonly known as the copper IUD. It can be in place for up to 12 years, is effective immediately, and is used by people who’d rather avoid hormonal methods of birth control — or those who want something really long-lasting.
The Paragard copper IUD is also one of the most effective methods of emergency contraception. It can be inserted up to 5 days AFTER sex to prevent pregnancy — and then keep you protected from future unwanted pregnancies.
How much does an IUD cost?
Fees vary, but IUD insertions are oftentimes covered by insurance, or medicaid in certain states. carafem accepts most major insurance plans and may be able to work with you if you need financial assistance. We can help you with your insurance provider to learn if your plan covers IUDs. Just call us at (855) Say – Cara or schedule an appointment online 24/7.
How can I get an IUD?
We offer same-day, next-day, evening, and weekend appointments! We make it as easy as possible to come in and have your reproductive healthcare needs met. You can read more about the different types of IUDs here — and hear real experiences from people who use them.
What are the side effects of an IUD?
IUDs are safe, and widely used by more than 150 million people around the world. That makes it the most widely used long acting and fully reversible method of contraception. In the case of the copper IUD, it does not have any hormone-related side effects or complications and has not been associated with weight gain, altered libido, or mood changes.
A small portion of IUD users experience pain, menstrual cramps, or heavier period bleeding when using this method, but in most cases, this can be managed with over the counter pain medications.
Can my partner feel my IUD?
The IUD won’t get in the way of you enjoying sex with your partner. If anything your partner may feel minor contact with the strings of the IUD but it should not cause any discomfort for you or your partner, or disrupt your normal routine.
