An IUD is a small plastic "T" shaped device containing copper or the hormone progesterone. It is placed in the uterus and stops pregnancy by changing the uterine lining to prevent implantation. Once inserted, it is effective for 1 to 5 or more years. The IUD is an effective, long-term, reversible method of birth control. You should not use the IUD if you have more than one partner, if you have ever had infections of the reproductive organs, or if you are allergic to copper. The IUD is associated with increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) thereforeit is preferred that a woman have already had one or more children to be considered for IUD insertion.
