Intrauterine Device (IUD): What to Choose — Hormonal or Regular?

One of the most frequent questions I receive is which is better for contraception: a regular or hormonal IUD. Let’s look at the differences between them, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.

Types of Intrauterine Devices

There are two types of intrauterine devices:

Regular IUD — contains various metals, such as copper, silver, or gold.
Hormonal IUD — released with a hormone that is gradually released into the uterus.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action differs between these two types of IUDs:

Regular IUD creates a mechanical barrier to prevent the fertilized egg from attaching to the uterine wall.
Hormonal IUD releases a hormone that thickens the cervical mucus, preventing sperm from entering the uterus.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Regular IUD

Lower contraceptive reliability.
May increase menstrual bleeding.
Minor irritation of the uterine lining due to the metals used.

Hormonal IUD

Highest contraceptive reliability.
Does not cause uterine irritation since it does not contain metals.
The hormone reduces the thickness of the endometrium, making periods less heavy.
Can be used to treat heavy periods or adenomyosis.

What Should You Know Before Getting an IUD?

Before getting an IUD, it's important to:

Ensure there are no contraindications for a hormonal IUD.
Expect a possible adjustment period where the menstrual cycle may become irregular, and spotting may occur.

How Long Can You Use an IUD?

The lifespan of any IUD is about 5 years. After that, it needs to be replaced to avoid potential problems during removal.

Conclusion

By all parameters, the hormonal IUD takes the lead, but the choice is always up to you. It’s important to consult with a gynecologist to choose the best contraceptive method.

Thank you for your attention and see you next time!