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INTRAUTERINE DEVICE
INTRAUTERINE DEVICE

keyboard_backspace Gynecology

HOW DOES AN INTRAUTERINE DEVICE WORK?

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, flexible device, usually made of plastic, which is placed inside the uterine cavity. It is used to prevent unwanted pregnancies and it is one of the contraceptive methods. There are two types of intrauterine devices: copper and hormonal.

Copper IUD (also called non-hormonal) releases copper ions, which cause local inflammation, resulting in swelling and congestion of the lining of the uterus cavity - this prevents the sperm from moving properly towards the fallopian tubes. In addition, thickened cervical mucus further inhibits sperm movement. Copper also reduces the ability of egg cells to fertilise.

The hormonal IUD contains hormones (usually progestogens) which are gradually released in the female body. They may vary in size, hormone content and daily amount of release. Unlike copper IUD, hormonal IUDs act through the gradual release of the hormone. It causes mucus thickening, preventing sperm from movement and reaching the egg, and also leads to the disappearance of the glandular epithelium, making the uterine mucosa thin, preventing implantation of the embryo.

A visit to a gynaecologist is necessary to insert an intrauterine device, but the procedure is relatively simple and short.

INDICATIONS:

Contraceptive method

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

  • Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
  • Abnormal Pap test results
  • Undiagnosed bleeding from the reproductive tract
  • Inflammation of the reproductive organs
  • Neoplastic diseases in the area of a reproductive organ, liver, breast
  • Allergy to product ingredients

RECOMMENDED FREQUENCY:

Number of procedures performed: 1
Insertion of an IUD takes place during 1 appointment.  

Pricing

Type of service:
Prices from*:
Intrauterine device
1200 PLN
*Final prices may vary depending on the scope of the service.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - INTRAUTERINE DEVICE

The copper IUD is hormone-free and works by releasing copper ions, which is toxic to sperm and prevents egg fertilization. The hormone IUD contains a progestogen hormone, which acts on several levels. It causes changes in the cervical mucus, which prevents the movement of sperm, and affects the lining of the uterus, which prevents implantation of the embryo.

The final choice between copper and hormonal IUD should be made in consultation with a gynecologist who will help you choose the right option based on your individual needs and preferences, as well as your health condition and medical history.

The procedure of IUD insertion involves placing it inside the uterine cavity. Prior to the procedure, the doctor will conduct an interview, gynecological examination and ultrasound examination. 
During the procedure the patient lies on the gynecological chair. Using a special applicator, an IUD is inserted into the uterine cavity. Once it has been placed, the doctor will check whether it is properly positioned and whether there are any abnormalities.

The procedure is performed without anesthesia, usually takes a few minutes and it is relatively simple. Inserting an intrauterine device may be accompanied by slight pain and bleeding. However, the final evaluation of the comfort of the procedure depends on the patient’s individual sensitivity to pain.

The intrauterine device may be inserted in various phases of the cycle, but usually the time after menstruation is usually preferred (up to 7 days) when the uterine mucosa is least susceptible to infection and injuries. 

Once the intrauterine device is inserted, it is recommended to perform a check with a gynecologist after about 4-6 weeks to ensure that the intrauterine device is properly located and there are no complications. You may experience slight pain in the first few days after the procedure, and slight bleeding or spotting may also occur.