Hormonal IUD

A hormonal IUD prevents pregnancy by releasing the hormone progestin. It is small, soft, and flexible and is t-shaped. Currently, there are four types available: Liletta®, Mirena® Skyla® and Kyleena® .

The term "IUD" actually stands for "Intrauterine Device", meaning that is is placed inside of the uterus. A hormonal IUD is placed inside of the uterus by a doctor or a nurse.

• Soft and flexible

• T-shaped

• Releases small amounts of hormones into the uterus

• Works for 3, 5, 6 or 8 years depending on which hormonal IUD you choose

• Can be removed at any time by a doctor if you want to become pregnant

• A Step Ahead Foundation provides hormonal IUDs for free!

Hormonal IUDs prevent sperm from reaching the egg, thus preventing pregnancy. A small amount of the hormone progestin is released by the IUD, thickening the cervical mucus and making it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg. These hormones may also prevent ovulation in some women.

Hormonal IUDs are very effective. It's one of the most effective forms of birth control with over a 99% rate of success. For every 100 women with a hormonal IUD, less than one will become pregnant within a year on average.

A hormonal IUD has to be inserted by a nurse or doctor. After it is inserted, you don't have to do anything. You are protected from pregnancy for 3, 5, 6 or 8 years, or until you decide to have it removed. However, an IUD doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections (STI), so always wear a condom to protect yourself.

No. As noted above, a hormonal IUD doesn't protect you from STDs. To protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections, we recommend using condoms when you have sex.

As soon as your IUD is removed, you immediately return to the level of fertility you were before the IUD was inserted. If you got your hormonal IUD through A Step Ahead Foundation, we will pay to have it removed at no charge to you. Call us to schedule an appointment at 901-320-STEP (7837).

• Over 99% effective

• Easy to get

• Can be taken out at any time

• Lasts for 3, 5, 6 or 8 years depending on which hormonal IUD you choose

• Lighter or no period (for some women)

• Return to the state of fertility you had before the IUD was placed. Because the IUD doesn't change fertility once it's removed, you will immediately have the same chance of getting pregnant once it's removed as you did before it was inserted.

• You don't have to remember to take a pill or put on a patch

• No STI/STD protection

• You can possibly have irregular and heavy periods

• Can experience mild cramping after insertion. This should go away quickly

• Potential side effects can vary for each woman. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns

If you have any questions about hormonal IUDs, want to find free IUD insertion near you, or simply want more information, fill out the online form on our contact page. One of our doctors or nurses will be happy to help!

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