Preventing pregnancy is a concern for most sexually active adults. Most of the methods of contraception available today fall under the control of women, but that does not mean that men should not be interested and knowledgeable about such things. In fact, I think it is in everyone’s best interest that they know what options are available, how they function, and what their failure rate is so they and their partner can make the best decision for themselves.

Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (The Copper IUD) – The IUD is a small, T-shaped device with a copper wire. Inserted into the uterus, the copper wire changes the chemistry in the uterus and destroys sperm.

Hormonal IUD (Mirena) - The is a hormonal IUD. It is made up of a small T-shaped frame with a small cylinder containing the hormone levonorgestrel. It does not contain estrogen. This cylinder slowly releases the hormone that acts on the lining of the uterus. The lining of the uterus becomes thinner and the cervical mucus becomes thicker which makes it harder for sperm to enter the uterus.

Both the copper and the hormonal IUD provides up to five years of contraception, and has no negative impact on future fertility after removal. The IUD can be used by women who have been pregnant before and those who have not. It fails in one of every 100 users per year (it is 99%effective). The IUD should not alter the timing of your periods. Women who use an IUD have a lower rate of ectopic pregnancy (a dangerous condition in which a fetus develops in the fallopian tube instead of the uterus) than women who do not use any birth control. However, if pregnancy should occur, it is important to see your health care provider immediately, because there is a significant chance the pregnancy is in the fallopian tube.

The IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or HIV. Condoms should be used to protect against STIs or HIV. Women who use the copper IUD may find that their periods get heavier or are accompanied by more painful cramping. Complications associated with the IUD are rare but may occur. Possible complications of inserting an IUD include irregular bleeding or spotting, perforating the uterus (making a small hole in the uterus), infection, or expulsion (the IUD falls out). Unlike the copper IUD, the hormonal IUD decreases the amount of menstrual bleeding and may decrease menstrual cramping

You will need a prescription to get an IUD. A health care provider must insert the IUD, usually in the office or family planning clinic. You may need to book a second visit to have the IUD inserted. Your health care provider will insert the IUD into the uterus through the cervix (opening of the uterus). The copper IUD costs between $60 and $100.