Contemplating Contraception: The Benefits of An Intrauterine Device
Dr. Jessica Lafyatis
Blanchard Valley Obstetrics & Gynecology
There are several types of contraception available to women. These vary in efficacy, side effects and satisfaction rates. Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) is the most effective birth control and includes intrauterine devices (IUD) and subdermal implants. The major advantage of LARCs compared with other contraception is that they do not require taking a pill every day or doing something each time before having sex. By removing the element of human error, these devices are over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. LARCs are reversible, which means after the device is removed, fertility can return rapidly.
There are currently five IUDs on the market in the United States. Four of these IUDs contain hormones (a type of progesterone) and differ in the amount of hormone and length of use (3-6 years). Though the amount of hormone that reaches the bloodstream is low, rarely do women experience side effects such as headaches, breast tenderness, or nausea, but these symptoms typically resolve. An advantage of the hormonal IUDs is lighter and less crampy menstrual cycles. The other IUD is the copper IUD (Paragard), which contains no hormones and can last 10 years. The most common side effect from the copper IUD is heavy and painful menstrual cycles, but they typically improve in a few months. The subdermal implant (Nexplanon) is a single rod-shaped device that is placed on the inside of the upper arm. It prevents pregnancy for three years. The most common side effect with Nexplanon is unscheduled bleeding - bleeding in between menstrual cycles. The bleeding is not heavy but can be bothersome to some women. Overall, LARCs are safe and effective and have the highest continuation rates among users.
It is important to discuss birth control options with your health care provider before becoming sexually active. Together, you can decide which method is best for you. Considering that almost half of all pregnancies in the united states are unplanned, it is important to choose a birth control method that is effective and one that will be continued until you are ready to become pregnant.
Stories Posted This Week
Friday, May 2, 2025
Thursday, May 1, 2025
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
- Bulldog softball upset by Delphos Jefferson
- Bulldog baseball edged by Jefferson
- Bulldog boys and girls 2nd at Bloomdale track tri-meet
- ONU classed as "lower access, higher earnings" institution
- Field reports from NW Ohio wildlife officers
- Ohio High School All-State Honors Band, ONU Symphonic Band perform May 4
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
- William Douglas Burris worked for Rockwell International
- Beatitudes style show proves thrift can be fashionable
- Bulldog softball rallies for win vs. Falcons
- Bulldog baseball loss vs. Falcons
- Bulldogs compete in Ada JH track invitational
- Bulldog tennis loss vs. Bluffton
- Letter: The benefits of vaccinating newborns and children
Monday, April 28, 2025
- Anabel R. McBride worked for Ada Exempted Village Schools
- Trash to Treasure STEAM program on May 3
- Student entrepreneurs compete in 2025 Polar Innovation Exchange
- Lifesaving AED installed at One More gym on E. Buckeye
- St. Mark Community Meal is April 30
- Alfes wins Medalist honors at OAC golf championships
- Wilma A. Willeke worked at Ohio Northern