Update on IUDs
Huxall, L.K.
Mcn. American Journal of Maternal Child Nursing 5(3): 186-190
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0361-929X PMID: 6770215 DOI: 10.1097/00005721-198005000-00013Document Number: 534033
The SUD is the most effective mechanical contraceptive method available at this time. When inserted correctly, IUDs are 95-99% effective. More than 3 million women in the United States and over 15 million women worldwide are IUD users. Women who are using or are considering using IUDs need comprehensive medical care and adequate health instruction. In this discussion attention is directed to how IUDs work and the various types of IUDs, factors to consider when selecting an IUD and timing for insertion, and complications and risks. The 2 basic categories of IUDs are nonmedicated and medicated. The most important factor to consider when selecting an IUD is the competence of the nurse or physician who inserts it and their familiarity with the IUD selected. The time to insert an IUD is near the end of a woman's normal menstrual period, for this helps assure that she is not pregnant and masks any bleeding associated with insertion. There are 3 particularly serious complications or potential risks from using an IUD: perforation of the uterus; infection, and ectopic pregnancy. A women who is considering IUD use should be informed of the probability of increased menstrual bleeding and cramping, the occurrence of intermenstrual spotting, and dyspareunia for some. Although the pregnancy rate with IUDs is very low, the potential IUD user needs to understand what is likely to happen if she becomes pregnant with an IUD. Spontaneous abortion with the IUD in situ is about 50%.