FAMILY WELFARE: WHAT IS I.U.D.?
Intra uterine device is placed in the womb to prevent pregnancy. Copper-T and loop are two intra uterine devices most commonly used in India. These provide a simple, effective and reversible method for young mothers to ensure proper spacing between the births of two children. These devices are advised only to those women who have already borne a child.
Both copper-T and loop are moulded from polyethylene. Copper-T is shaped like the English alphabet T and has fine copper wire, 200 m.m. in surface, wrapped around its vertical arm. Hence the name copper-T-200.
Loop is shaped like the alphabet S and is about one and half inches in length.
An IUD is inserted in the woman's uterus by a doctor or by a trained ANM. The whole procedure takes only a few minutes. It does not require hospitalisation.
How does copper-T or loop work?
It has been established that mere presence of copper-T or loop prevents implantation of the fertilised egg in the womb.
The addition of copper-T enhances its anti fertility effect on the user and has been found to be more acceptable.
When to have an IUD inserted?
The safest and the best time for insertion of copper-T or loop is on the day of stoppage of menstruation or shortly thereafter. This ensures that I.U.D. is not inserted when a woman is already pregnant.
What are the possible side effects of I.U.D.?
Possible side effects are
A little pain or cramping of the abdomen for the first few days.
Increased bleeding during menstrual days for the first two months or so. It should become normal within 3-4 months.
Slight bleeding for a week.
If the bleeding is not more than mere spotting or normal period, there is no need to worry.
What to do if I.U.D. is being expelled?
In rare cases copper f or loop can be expelled on it's own. In such cases woman should visit the family planning clinic, either the I.U.D. will be reinserted or some alternative will be utilised. In, no case should the woman herself attempt to remove the deivce.
A pair of nylon thread is attached at the tail of the I.U.D. This helps in checking up of the device in position and in removing it.
When not to have an I.U.D.?
It is not advised in women, who have
Pelvic infection
Excessive or irregular menstrual bleeding
Prolapse of uterus
Fibroid uterus
Recent septic abortion
Pregnancy
What are the salient benefits?
It is a reversible method. Couples wanting another child can have the I.U.D. removed and natural fertility is restored.
It does not interfere with the sex act. Its presence is not felt by either partner. Its failure rate is almost nil and can be kept in uterus upto 5 years.
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