The intra uterine device (IUD) is made of flexible plastic with fine copper wire wound firmly around it, the device is placed in a woman’s uterus. A nylon string is attached to the stem of the IUD for easy removal by a doctor or nurse practitioner.
Download the Intra Uterine Device pamphlet to read about the Mirena IUD.

How Does it Work?

Because the copper IUD is toxic to sperm it prevents fertilisation of the egg. The IUD also stops any fertilised egg from implanting in the uterus.

Does It Work?

Absolutely. The IUD has a success rate of 99%.

Who Should Use an IUD?

• Women who have finished having children and want a long-term reversible form of contraception
• Women who cannot or do not wish to take The Pill
• Women who are at long term risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) should NOT have an IUD fitted.

Before Insertion

• Have a Pap Smear and swabs to rule out any pelvic infections
• Ensure that you are not pregnant (so either have the IUD inserted immediately after your period or use reliable contraception until it can be fitted).

How Is an IUD Fitted

You will be placed in the same position in the Clinic as if you were about to have a Pap Smear. A speculum will be placed in your vagina and your cervix cleaned with an antiseptic. The length of the uterus is measured and the IUD is placed inside through the cervix or opening to the uterus and the strings are cut to a length of 3 or 4 cms. You will wait at the Clinic for about 15 minutes to ensure that you feel no unnecessary discomfort or pain.

It is important that you do not have intercourse or use tampons for 48 hours following insertion to prevent infection

Side Effects

• Although rare, when an IUD fails and the woman becomes pregnant, the device must be removed as soon as possible. An IUD in a pregnant woman increases the risk of miscarriage
• There is also the risk of an ectopic pregnancy (where the fertilised egg implants in the fallopian tubes) when the IUD fails (again rarely)
• An increase in bleeding, painful periods and vaginal discharge
• The IUD may expel itself from the uterus usually during a period. The woman may not be aware that this has happened and should always check that the string is in place
• There is a small risk of infection in the 3 weeks following insertion
• Because pelvic infections can lead to infertility, it is important that a woman with an IUD be particularly careful about protecting herself from sexually transmitted infections
• The IUD may perforate the wall of the uterus. This is a very rare occurrence and may happen when the IUD is being inserted.

What If I Feel That Something Is Wrong?

Contact your doctor when

• The string feels like it is shorter or longer than normal as the IUD may have shifted. It is important to check the length of string after each period
• You experience persistent low back of abdominal pain, particularly when associated with a fever
• You have an unusual discharge or bleeding or there is pain with intercourse
• Either you or your partner have had another sexual experience which increases your exposure to a sexually transmitted infection
• 6 weeks after insertion and then every 12 months

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Last updated:20/02/2007
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