Everything you need to know about Intrauterine Device – Types, Side effects, cost in Kenya

Have you heard of Intrauterine devices? It is often inserted into the Uterus for the purpose of preventing pregnancy.

This article is a must-read for all women out there especially the Kenyans

What is the Intrauterine device (IUD)?

In order to avoid becoming pregnant, an intrauterine device, also known as an intrauterine contraceptive device or a coil, is implanted into the uterus. Long-acting reversible birth control, such as IUDs, is an option. The T-shaped intrauterine device is made of plastic.

What are the different types of Intrauterine devices?

Photo credit: Aspivix

• An Intrauterine device made of copper
• Implantable contraceptive device (Hormonal Intrauterine device)

Intrauterine devices made of copper

An intrauterine device (IUD) called the copper-T (also known as the ‘Multiload’) is a non-hormonal method of birth control. It’s a T-shaped piece of plastic with a coil of copper wire wrapped around it. That’s why it’s known as the ‘coil.’ The end has two little strings connected. This allows a doctor to easily remove it or verify that it is in the proper place. It has a lifespan of 10–12 years.

Other copper IUDs are available, however, the Multiload is widely used and the most effective. Consult your doctor to choose whether the copper-T Intrauterine device is ideal for you and to learn more about its features.

The copper in the Intrauterine device acts as a natural spermicide, killing any sperm that enters the vaginal canal. That way, the eggs in your fallopian tubes won’t be fertilized, and you won’t be able to conceive.

The copper-T Intrauterine device is a reversible contraceptive device. After you’ve removed it, you may try to conceive.

Does the copper-T Intrauterine Device affect my menstruation?

Many women report having heavier periods and greater cramps after using the copper-T Intrauterine device. Unless you were already anemic before beginning using the copper-T Intrauterine device, this is typically not a concern.

Around three to six months, many women’s cycles return to their previous state. While using an Intrauterine device, some women have larger periods.

Changes in your period are typical, but if you are concerned, speak with your healthcare professional.

Side effects of copper-T Intrauterine Device

1. Discharge from the cervix
2. Cramps
3. Spotting and bleeding on a regular basis
4. Vaginitis is a condition that affects women
5. Periods of increased activity, and as a consequence, anemia.

Women that should avoid using copper-T Intrauterine device

1. Women who have a high risk of getting STDs except they use protection like condoms with all of their sex partners.
2. Most HIV/AIDS and ovary cancer patients can use an IUD, but they should see a doctor beforehand.
3. Undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding in women
4. Women suffering from severe anemia
5. High-risk women with pelvic inflammatory illness (PID).
6. Copper allergy sufferers
7. Women who are pregnant
8. Women who have been diagnosed with uterine or cervical cancer

Is the copper-T Intrauterine device effective as an emergency contraceptive device?

Yes. The copper-T IUD is, in fact, the most effective method of emergency contraception. It’s even more effective than over-the-counter pain relievers. It’s still 99.9% effective even if it’s put five days after intercourse.

Hormonal Intrauterine device

The hormonal Intrauterine device is a little cylinder that is inserted into the uterus or womb and is roughly the length of a matchstick. It’s implanted by a specialist and may last three to 5 years in the body. It works by releasing a modest dosage of the hormonal progestogen on a regular basis (levonorgestrel). Mirena is the brand name for a hormonal Intrauterine device.

The hormonal Intrauterine device thickens the mucus surrounding your cervix, preventing sperm from passing through, and it also prevents your ovaries from developing an egg.

In addition, this hormone makes it very difficult for sperm to get up to the egg. Furthermore, it thins and inhibits the uterine lining, preventing an egg from being fertilized and implanted in the rare situation that it is fertilized.

Does hormonal Intrauterine device affect menstruation?

If you use a hormonal Intrauterine device, you may be able to avoid having difficulties with your periods. It’s usual to quit getting heavy periods after several months of usage. Alternatively, your periods may come to an end.
Pre-menstrual cramps and/or discomfort may be relieved by using a hormonal Intrauterine device.

Only approximately half of women who use a hormonal Intrauterine device still get their periods after a year. Despite if you still get your period, women who use a hormonal Intrauterine device lose up to 70% less blood than those who don’t.

It’s a good idea to consider this before getting an Intrauterine device and to discuss any concerns you have about your period with your healthcare practitioner before getting an Intrauterine device.

Side Effects of Hormonal Intrauterine device

1. Soreness in the breasts
2. gaining weight
3. Headaches
4. Mood swings
5. Acne
6. Spotting
7. Cysts in the ovaries

Women that should avoid using hormonal Intrauterine device

1. Women with hepatic tumors
2. Women who have a pelvic infection that hasn’t been treated
3. Undiagnosed and abnormal vaginal bleeding in women
4. Breast, cervical, or uterine cancer patients
5. Women at high risk of STDs should see their doctor see whether they may use hormonal IUDs unless they wear condoms with all of their sex partners. Because IUDs have a small risk of infection, alternative birth control options may be preferable.
6. Women who have just been diagnosed with pelvic inflammatory illness

Cost of Intrauterine device and Cost of Coil Contraction in Kenya

In Kenya, the cost of an Intrauterine device is equal to the cost of a coil contraceptive.
When it comes to IUDs, they cost between Ksh 2500 and Ksh 3,000, which includes the insertion and the following follow-up to ensure that it is in place. IUDs may offer contraception for up five to ten years.

The hormonal Intrauterine device is more costly than the Copper Intrauterine device, which is inexpensive and widely available.

Meanwhile, the cost of removing an Intrauterine device in Kenya is somewhere around Ksh 250 shillings.

Are Intrauterine devices safe to use?

It’s usual to have some adverse effects within the first several months.
If you’re still experiencing negative effects after 6 months, consult your doctor to make sure everything is okay.

Expulsion is one of the issues that might develop. The Intrauterine device partly or completely slides out from the womb in this case. You may get pregnant if this occurs. That’s why it’s crucial to check once a month to see whether you can feel the strings.

Another uncommon issue is when the Intrauterine device pushes through the uterine wall. It occurs throughout the placement process and is easily remedied. If it isn’t, the Intrauterine device may cause internal organ harm. That’s why an Intrauterine device should only be implanted by a physician.

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