Intrauterine device – types

The intrauterine device is one of the most reliable methods of contraception, as it provides more than 98% guarantee of protection against unwanted pregnancy. Types of intrauterine devices differ in configuration, rigidity and principle of operation. In each case, the specialist individually selects the most suitable type of spiral, based on the results of the examination and the structural features of the body. There are many arguments for and against intrauterine devices, as evidenced by the conflicting reviews about this method of contraception, not only doctors, but also the women themselves. But the successful use of the spiral depends on the experience of the specialist and the state of health of the woman herself. The doctor should also advise which intrauterine device is best to buy, based on the capabilities and needs of the patient.

Intrauterine devices – “for” and “against”

Spirals have a large list of contraindications. With benign and malignant neoplasms, with inflammatory processes in the body, with pathologies of the development of the uterus and cervix, with inflammation of the genital organs, you can not use an intrauterine device of any kind. There are also relative contraindications to the use of spirals, which are considered in each case individually. Moreover, this method of contraception is acceptable only in cases where a woman has a permanent partner, and if the woman is confident in him, since any type of intrauterine device increases the risk of infection in the uterine cavity. In addition, there is a risk of spontaneous loss of the spiral, and if this is not detected in a timely manner, then pregnancy may occur. At the same time, such hormonal intrauterine devices as Mirena have a certain therapeutic effect and can be prescribed for certain diseases of the genital organs, but, like any hormonal drugs, they have contraindications and characteristic side effects.

The positive qualities of using spirals are high efficiency of 98-99%, ease of use. The duration of the intrauterine device is 5 years, during which the woman does not need to take any additional measures, except for preventive examinations every 5-6 months and periodic monitoring of the position of the device, which can be determined independently. In addition, the spirals do not have side effects on breastfeeding. Also, after removing the spiral, fertility is quickly restored, and a woman can become pregnant. All the pros and cons of intrauterine devices should be considered only on an individual basis, taking into account the results of the examination. Most of the negative consequences of using spirals are associated precisely with the neglect of contraindications and recommendations for use.

Types of intrauterine devices

The forerunners of modern types of coils were inert coils made of polymeric materials and having a design of different shapes. Due to low efficiency and frequent fallout or displacement in the uterine cavity, these types of contraception were banned, and they were replaced by improved products.

Spirals can be of various shapes, ring-shaped, spiral, but T-shaped spirals are most common. Also, the spirals can contain hormones, metal alloys and, in addition to the contraceptive effect, have a therapeutic effect. To date, almost all intrauterine devices have a T-shaped appearance. They were developed taking into account the shortcomings of previous products, they are more reliable and easy to use.

T-shaped intrauterine devices with copper content are widely used due to their ease of insertion and removal. Copper ions also have an anti-inflammatory and contraceptive effect, which significantly improved the quality of the spirals. But there is controversy about the gold intrauterine spirals. It is believed that they can provoke inflammatory processes. Intrauterine devices with silver have a low contraceptive effect, so silver and copper are most often combined.

Intrauterine hormonal coils are considered very popular, which doctors consider the best method of contraception. They combine the advantages of oral contraceptives and intrauterine devices. The hormones contained in the leg of the spiral enter the body evenly over 5 years, prevent inflammation and increase the contraceptive effect. The most common is the intrauterine device Mirena and Progestasert. The spiral is selected depending on the active ingredient, progesterone or levonorgestrel, which is most suitable for a woman.

How much an intrauterine device costs depends on many factors, but you need to choose the highest quality option, preferably a reputable company. The price depends on the type of intrauterine device, on firms of the manufacturer, distributor, and most importantly, the quality of the materials used in the manufacture. The most common are intrauterine devices "Multiload", "Mirena", "Nova t", "Juno". The price of the Mirena intrauterine device can be an order of magnitude higher than the cost of an intrauterine device that does not contain hormones. But the high cost is justified by the long duration, which in the end is another positive point in using the spiral. Having taken care of contraception once, you can forget about this issue for five years, therefore, do not worry about the cost of other contraceptives.