Not every sexually active individual wishes to conceive a baby. One may opt to use birth control forms to enhance their protection, minimizing fertilization chances. Out of the several options, intrauterine devices, famously referred to as IUDs, are a preferred reversible contraception form. During your Las Vegas birth control appointment, your doctor informs you of the different devices, why they might be your best option and how you can use the T-shaped devices for other reasons besides birth control. Though IUDs are among the most effective reversible contraception methods, your gynecologist can recommend that misconceptions about them make it challenging for individuals to believe in their effectiveness. Below, we look at some of these misconceptions.     

IUDs work by affecting abortion.

You have probably heard of some couples raising their disbelief about IUDs because the contraception form prevents pregnancy by triggering an abortion. The truth is IUDs work by lessening the chances of the sperm reaching the egg for fertilization. While the copper-bearing IUD impairs or kills the sperm before it swims to the egg, the progestin-containing IUD thickens cervical mucus, stopping the sperm before entering the uterus. Thus, the contraception form has more contraceptive effects than an abortifacient effect.

IUDs are not effective.

IUDs are highly effective. Though both the copper-bearing and hormonal IUDs are approximately 99% effective, with pregnancy chances almost similar to sterilization, there is a less significant pregnancy risk, especially beyond the first year of use. While hormonal levonorgestrel-releasing IUD (LNG-IUD) may be effective for up to 5 years, Copper-bearing IUDs might serve you up to 12 years.      

IUDs enhance your risk of having an ectopic pregnancy.

The contraception method effectively prevents pregnancy, lowering your chances of having an ectopic pregnancy, unlike women not using any birth control form. Having an IUD in your uterus means that the sperm has zero chances of reaching the egg to fertilize it, making it impossible for conception to occur. 

IUDs have adverse side effects and health risks.

\Some women are afraid of using IUDs because of the misconception that the contraception form has various health risks, including congenital disabilities, sexually transmitted diseases, and cancer. The truth is that the infections you are likely to get might stem from your lower genital tract during insertion. While inserting the device, your doctor passes the IUD through your lower genital tract, where they might carry microorganisms to your uterus. However, your doctor can minimize the infection risk by recommending the ‘no-touch’ insertion technique that prevents the device from coming in contact with unsterilized surfaces like the hands, speculum, and vaginal wall. The birth control form does not heighten your risk of getting STIs or HIV. However, your doctor might not suggest the birth control form if you risk developing gonorrhea or chlamydia. IUDs will not increase your risk of congenital disabilities or multiple pregnancies, whether the mother conceives with or without the device.     

You cannot use the contraception form if you have never conceived.

IUDs are not a preserve for women who have children. Your gynecologist might recommend the device whether you have conceived before or have no children.

IUDs are very effective and will reduce your chances of having unplanned pregnancies. However, you should contact your doctor before you decide to go for the device as your birth control option.