Intrauterine Device (IUD)

Hormonal

Mirena®, Liletta® Kyleena® & Skyla®

  • Soft, flexible T-shaped IUD

  • Over 99% effective

  • Releases small amounts of hormone into the uterus 

  • Works up to 3 or 5 years

  • If a woman wants to become pregnant, the device can be removed at any time

How it works

  • Small T-shaped plastic device placed in your uterus

  • Releases small amount of progestin that stops ovaries from releasing egg

  • Makes it hard for sperm to move within the uterus

  • Must be put in & taken out by a doctor/nurse practitioner

Advantages​

  • ​Over 99% effective

  • Easy to use

  • Lasts up to five years; can be taken out at any time

  • Quick return to fertility

  • For some women, lighter or no period

  • Does not require daily, weekly or monthly up keep.  You can get it and forget it!

Disadvantages

  • Does not protect against STDs or HIV

  • While it is 99% effective against pregnancy, if one was to become pregnant it would need to be removed.  

  • Possible irregular periods which may be heaviest at the beginning

Non-Hormonal

Paragard®

  • Hormone-free birth control 

  • Over 99% effective 

  • Releases copper ions that act as spermicide 

  • Works up to 12 years 

  • If a woman wants to become pregnant, the device can be removed at any time

How it works

  • Small T-shaped device placed in your uterus

  • It is wrapped in copper, which is toxic to sperm and keeps you from getting pregnant

  • Must be put in & taken out by a doctor/nurse practitioner

Advantages

  • Over 99% effective 

  • Easy to use 

  • Lasts up to ten years; can be taken out at any time 

  • Since there are no hormones, you should have your menstrual cycle (your period) as usual 

  • Quick return to fertility 

  • Forgettable- no risk of forgetting to take a pill or put on a patch, you're covered!

Disadvantages 

  • Does not protect against STDs or HIV 

  • Some women have heavier periods and possibly more cramping during periods- but usually this gets better after a few months 

Got questions?

​You can call or text our Helpline at (865) 657-8372 or submit your questions! Our Health Educator will follow up with you within 48 business hours.

Contact us