Tiny T-Shaped Powerhouses: Find the IUD That Fits Your Life

Thinking about an IUD? You’re not alone. These tiny T-shaped devices are some of the most reliable birth control options out there. They are over 99% effective, and once they’re in, they mostly just do their thing while you live your life. Let’s break down what you need to know so you can find your perfect match.

An IUD (intrauterine device) is a small device placed in your uterus by a healthcare provider. IUDs are primarily used for long-term contraception because they are highly effective and low-maintenance. Hormonal IUDs can also help manage heavy or painful periods, reduce menstrual flow, and in some cases, even stop periods entirely. It prevents pregnancy by creating an environment that’s hostile to sperm, and you don’t have to remember a pill every day. Basically, it’s birth control that works quietly in the background.

IUDs come in two main types: hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonal IUDs release levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that thickens cervical mucus, thins the uterine lining, and sometimes suppresses ovulation. Non-hormonal IUDs, like the copper IUD, don’t use hormones at all. Instead, copper naturally repels sperm and can be effective for up to 10 years. One thing to note with copper IUDs is that they can sometimes cause more cramping and heavier periods due to the inflammatory response the copper creates in the uterus. This is an important consideration when deciding if it’s the right option for you.

Hormonal IUD Options

All hormonal IUDs use levonorgestrel, but they differ in hormone dose, size, and duration. Here’s a quick guide to help you see the differences at a glance:

All of these hormonal IUDs are over 99% effective and can be removed at any time if you decide to try for pregnancy or switch methods.

Comfortable Insertion

We make IUD insertion as smooth and comfortable as possible. If you can, scheduling during your period can help because the cervix is naturally a bit more open. Taking 600 mg of ibuprofen with food about an hour before your appointment (if medically safe) can help reduce cramping. During the procedure, we provide a step-by-step walkthrough so there are no surprises, use a heating pad on the lower abdomen, and apply topical lidocaine to numb the cervix, all to minimize discomfort.

What to Know About IUD Strings

After your IUD is placed, the strings may take some time to soften. Your partner may feel them during sex, but this is completely normal and usually nothing to worry about. If the strings are ever uncomfortable, your provider can trim them or check placement.

Side Effects and Risks

Like any medical device, IUDs can have side effects. 

Common side effects include: cramping and spotting in the first few months, changes in menstrual bleeding (lighter periods with hormonal IUDs, heavier or longer periods with copper IUDs), up to 20–40% of patients develop no period over time, and occasional breast tenderness or mood changes with hormonal IUDs. Rare but serious risks include expulsion (the IUD coming out on its own), perforation of the uterus during insertion, or infection shortly after placement. Overall, serious complications are uncommon, and IUDs are considered a safe and highly effective form of long-term contraception.

How to Choose

Choosing the right IUD depends on your lifestyle, comfort, and personal preferences. Consider how long you want contraception, whether you want to reduce heavy bleeding, size and placement comfort, and your plans for pregnancy in the future. IUDs offer discreet, highly effective, and long-lasting birth control. There’s an option for almost every woman’s needs, whether you want to lighten your periods, avoid hormones, or simply set it and forget it.

If you’re ready to explore which IUD is right for you, book an appointment atalmondobgyn.com. Our team will walk you through your options, answer all your questions, and make sure your IUD insertion is as smooth and comfortable as possible.