Mirena, Skyla and ParaGard compared to a paper clip.
What is an IUD?
The letters IUD stand for intrauterine device.
It’s a small, flexible T-shaped plastic that gets placed in the uterus by a healthcare provider.
IUDs are highly – over 99% – effective birth control methods.
It’s completely discreet. No one can tell when you have an IUD.
The only thing you have to do is a string check from time to time.
Tabitha and the Mirena IUD.
Tabitha, 20, IUD
Photo Courtesy of Merck
What is an implant?
It’s a small flexible rod that is inserted under the skin of your upper arm, not in the muscle.
The implant Nexplanon is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
It’s completely discreet. No one can tell you’ve had an implant inserted.
Nexplanon (Formerly known as Implanon)
Kyesha, 29, implant
Photo Courtesy of Mirena-US
How does it work?
All hormonal IUDs and the implant (Mirena, Skyla, Liletta & Nexplanon) release a small dose of levonorgestral into your body.
The hormone keeps your ovaries from releasing eggs and thickens your cervical mucus, which helps to block the sperm from getting to the egg in the first place.
It also thins the lining of your uterus, which results in lighter to no periods depending on the person.
ParaGard is a non hormonal IUD but still helps prevent you from getting pregnant. The IUD is wrapped in a small amount of safe copper that along with the “T-shape” creates an inhospitable environment in your uterus for the sperm.
