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Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health: The INFO Project

Your knowledge-sharing resource on family planning and reproductive health

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IUD (Intrauterine Device)

The Essentials of Contraceptive Technology Wall Chart

IUD (Intrauterine Device)

  • Small device that a specially trained family planning provider places inside the womb.
  • Very effective, reversible, long-term method.
  • TCu-380A IUD lasts at least 10 years.
  • Menstrual periods may be heavier and longer, especially at first. Insertion may cause some pain. 
  • No effect on breastfeeding. A specially trained provider can put in an IUD after childbirth.
  • Pelvic infection is more likely if users have certain sexually transmitted infections when the IUD is inserted.
  • Can come out, especially in first month, so checking for the strings is important.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this web site is not official U.S. Government information and does not represent the views or positions of the U.S. Agency for International Development, the U.S. Government or The Johns Hopkins University.