It is a myth that IUD is a contraceptive that can only be used by women who have given birth. Women of all ages can use a IUD, and there are several different types on the market, so you can choose the one that is best for you. Among other things, there has been a mini spiral, which is specially designed for young women who have not given birth. It is slightly smaller than other IUDs and lasts for three years instead of five years.
Hormone IUDs are the safest contraceptive available. In the course of 3 years, more than 10% of girls under the age of 21 who use birth control pills will become pregnant, while with the use of IUDs, only 1% will become pregnant. Once you have had the IUD inserted, you are protected until you take it out again.
Because the hormones mainly only work locally in the uterus, the IUD has very few side effects. The most common side effect is rare and more sparse bleeding, and IUDs are therefore also used as a treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding.
For women who have not given birth, the insertion procedure itself can sometimes be a little more uncomfortable than for women who have given birth. We, gynaecologists have extensive experience with this and perform the procedure in the most gentle way possible. It is also good to know that the IUD is easy to remove when you want to and that using the IUD does not reduce your chances of getting pregnant later.
Kirsten has extensive experience from both maternity care, obstetrics, general gynaecology and fertility.
