WOMEN’S BODIES: QUESTIONS ABOUT INTRAUTERINE DEVICES
When is it safe to use an IUD?
You’ll most likely have problem-free and safe use of an IUD if:
• you don’t usually have menstrual cramps or heavy periods
• you have no history of pelvic infection
• you’re at no risk of getting a pelvic infection (which really means being in a monogamous sexual relationship with no risk of STD)
• you’ve already had one or more children (though many women who haven’t had children also have no problems).
Who shouldn’t use IUDs? .
You will be advised against using an IUD in any of the following circumstances:
• if you usually have heavy and/or crampy periods
• if there’s any abnormality in the size or shape of the uterine cavity
• if you have any history of infection of the uterus or tubes
• if you’ve previously had an ectopic pregnancy
• if there is any risk of you catching an STD
• if you have any abnormal bleeding from the uterus
• if you have any other disease of the reproductive organs
• if you have disorders of blood clotting
• if you’re allergic to copper.
Special precautions
If any of the following symptoms develop while you’re using an IUD, see your doctor without delay:
• missed periods or other symptoms that may make you suspect pregnancy
• worsening of menstrual problems such as heavy bleeding or cramps
• pelvic pain between periods, or pail associated with sexual intercourse
• smelly or discoloured vaginal discharge
• unexplained fever
• unusual bleeding between periods
• if you can’t feel the string.
Jan’s story
Jan came to see me, saying that she and her husband had watched a television programme that implied IUDs were dangerous to health and caused infertility. ‘Alan thinks I should have mine out, because we want to have another child next year. But it seems to suit me very well: I’ve had no problems.’
Jan is aged 29; she had an IUD inserted a few months after her 20-month-old son was born. She also used an IUD during the four years between her marriage and her first pregnancy. She had tried the Pill for several months during her engagement, but felt that it made her irritable.
Jan’s history proves that the IUD suits her, and if both she and Alan have no other sexual partners she’s at no risk of STD (the most common cause of infectious complications with IUDs). If the couple are happy about it, it would be safe to recommend leaving the device in place.
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