IUD Specialist
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Woodbridge Obstetrics and Gynecology
Obstetrics & Gynecology located in Woodbridge, VA
The intrauterine device (IUD) is considered one of the most effective forms of birth control, with less than one pregnancy in every 100 women who use the device. Board-certified OB/GYN Zohren Nikkhah Abyaneh, MD, at Woodbridge Obstetrics & Gynecology in Woodbridge, Virginia, offers many birth control options to help your family planning, including the IUD. To learn more about the IUD and if it’s a good choice for you, call the office or request an appointment online today.
IUD Q & A
What are IUDs?
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are birth control devices that are placed in your uterus. The T-shaped device, which is about the size of a quarter, prevents pregnancy by stopping sperm from reaching your egg. Once in place, your IUD prevents pregnancy for 3-10 years, depending on the type.
The IUD is considered one of the most effective forms of birth control. This may be due to the fact that once it’s in place, there’s nothing else you need to do. By comparison, in order for a birth control pill to be effective, you must remember to take it daily as prescribed.
What are the types of IUDs?
There are two types of IUDs. Dr. Nikkhah Abyaneh helps you determine the best choice for you.
Hormonal IUDs
Hormonal IUDs contain a hormone called progestin, which thickens the mucus in your cervix to stop sperm from reaching your egg. Hormonal IUDs protect you from pregnancy for 3-5 years.
Non-hormonal IUDs
Non-hormonal IUDs contain copper, which acts like a spermicide that kills sperm so it can’t reach your egg. Once inserted, a non-hormonal IUD prevents pregnancy for up to 10 years.
Hormonal IUDs may take up to a week to become effective so you should use alternative forms of birth control during that time. However, non-hormonal IUDs are effective as soon as they’re placed.
What can I expect during the placement of my IUD?
Dr. Nikkhah Abyaneh places your IUD during an office visit. The entire procedure only takes a few minutes.
During your IUD placement, Dr. Nikkhah Abyaneh has you sit on the exam table with your feet up and knees spread. She inserts a speculum to separate your vaginal walls. Your IUD is then placed in a small tube that Dr. Nikkhah Abyaneh inserts into your vagina, through your cervix, and into your uterus. She then pushes the IUD out of the tube.
You may experience some cramping and spotting after placement of your IUD, but these side effects should disappear within a few days.
How is an IUD removed?
Dr. Nikkhah Abyaneh can easily remove your IUD during an office visit. The procedure only takes a few minutes, and you may experience some cramping and spotting after removal.
Once your IUD is removed, you may be able to get pregnant during your next menstrual cycle.
To learn more about IUDs, contact Woodbridge Obstetrics & Gynecology by phone or online today.
