IUD Insertion and Removal in Boston, MA
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a form of long-term birth control for women. A small plastic T-shaped device is inserted into the uterus and can prevent pregnancy for 3 to 10 years depending on the type of IUD. An IUD is a highly effective form of birth control, but does not prevent sexually transmitted infections.
They board-certified gynecologist at About Women by Women are dedicated to helping women discover the right birth control option for them in the Greater Boston area in Wellesley, Waltham, Natick, Millis, and Walpole. If you are considering an IUD as your form of birth control, please contact our office at (781) 263-0033 and schedule your consultation today!
What to Expect When Getting an IUD
An IUD is inserted by your gynecologist in the office and will only take a few minutes. During the procedure, you may experience side effects like discomfort, cramping, or dizziness. Your gynecologist may recommend an over-the-counter painkiller before the procedure, or use a local anesthetic during the procedure to ease pain. The T-shaped IUD is left in the uterus, leaving 2 small strings outside the cervix for removal.
A follow up appointment may be scheduled after the procedure to be sure the IUD is still in place. Your OBYGN at About Women by Women will show you how to check that the IUD is still in the correct position and tell you how often you should check the placement.
Your IUD will be removed when it has reached its expiration date, if you are experiencing a medical problem, or if you plan to become pregnant. It can be removed during a short procedure at your gynecologists office. Your gynecologist will gently pull on the IUDs strings to pull the IUD through the cervix and out of the vagina.
Copper IUD
A copper IUD prevents fertilization by making the uterus and Fallopian tubes produce fluid containing copper that is toxic to sperm.
Paragard®
Paragard is the only copper IUD, and it can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. It works by interfering with sperm movement, egg fertilization, and may prevent implantation. Paragard is hormone free and can be used whether or not you have had a child.
Hormonal IUDs
A hormonal IUD prevents fertilization by making the mucus in the cervix thick and sticky so sperm can’t get through to the uterus, as well as keeping the lining of the uterus too thin for a fertilized egg to implant.
Skyla®
Skyla is a hormonal IUD made by the same company as Mirena, but this IUD is smaller. It may be less likely to be expelled in women who have never had a baby because of its smaller size. Skyla can be used for up to 3 years to prevent pregnancy.
Liletta®
Liletta is a hormonal IUD that is effective in preventing pregnancy for up to 3 years and women can use it regardless of if they have given birth.
IUD Consultation at About Women By Women
The highly trained OBGYNs at About Women by Women have extensive experience performing IUD placement at their offices throughout the Boston area. If you have further questions about IUDs or other forms of birth control, and are looking for a gynecologist near Boston call us at (781) 263-0033 or request an appointment online.
