What is a Non-Hormonal IUD?
A non-hormonal IUD is flexible, small, and soft. It is T-shaped and is placed inside of the uterus. A device that is placed in the uterus is called an "intrauterine device", or IUD. A non-hormonal IUD can only be inserted by a doctor or nurse. It prevents pregnancy by releasing copper ions. Paragard® is the only type of non-hormonal IUD currently available.
Quick Facts about the Non-Hormonal IUD
- Hormone-free birth control
- Over 99% effective
- Copper ions are released that act as spermicide
- Effective for up to 10 years
- The device can be removed at any time if a woman wants to become pregnant
How Does the Non-Hormonal IUD Work?
The IUD is wrapped in copper. This prevents sperm from reach the egg, in turn preventing pregnancy. The Paragard® IUD is the only non-hormonal IUD currently available in the United States.
How Well Does the Non-Hormonal IUD work?
The non-hormonal IUD works well. It is considered to be one of the best forms of birth control with an effective rate of over 99%. Out of 100 women who use the non-hormonal IUD in a year, less than 1 will become pregnant.
How Do I Use a Non-Hormonal IUD?
A non-hormonal IUD has to be inserted by a doctor or nurse. After insertion, you don't have to do anything in order for it to work. You will be protected for 10 years or until you have it removed.
Does a Non-Hormonal IUD Provide Protection from STIs (sometimes called STDs)?
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.
What If I Want to Get Pregnant?
You simply have to have your non-hormonal IUD removed. Your fertility will return as soon as it is removed at whatever level it was before you got the IUD. We will pay to have yours removed if you got it through A Step Ahead Foundation. You can schedule an appointment by calling 901-320-STEP (7837).
Advantages of Non-Hormonal IUDs
- Over 99% effective
- Easy to use
- Lasts up to ten years; can be taken out at any time
- Since there are no hormones, you should have your menstrual cycle (your period) as usual.
- 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.
- Forgettable - no risk of forgetting to take a pill or put on a patch, you're covered!
Disadvantages of Non-Hormonal IUDs
- Does not protect against STI/STD
- Some women have heavier periods and possibly more cramping during periods - but usually this gets better after a few months
How Do I Learn More About Non-Hormonal IUDs?
Call to set up an appointment with one of our doctors or nurses to talk about the IUD or implant. You can also visit our our contact page to ask one of our experts and find free IUD insertion near you!