Imagine the feeling of relief if contraception became a men’s responsibility to deal with… :) If only! For now, people with periods have a few options, but the choice currently topping the charts is the IUD.
Okay, but what the heck is it?
An IUD (intra-uterine device) is a form of contraception that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy or help manage period symptoms.
IUDs belong to a group of contraceptive devices called Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCS). They are called this because unlike the contraceptive pill, they don’t have to be taken every day for them to work; they can last from 5-10 years depending on the type! How good! (Less effort, but just as effective – you get a gold star from me, IUD!)
But it’s not just one IUD! There are two different types of IUDs:
- The Hormonal IUD (commonly called the Mirena and/or Kyleena): a little plastic T-shaped device with strings that releases small amounts of progesterone into the uterus. The hormonal IUD is subsidized by the PBS and can last up to 5 years.
- The Copper IUD: almost identical to the Hormonal IUD, but wrapped in copper which acts as a repellant to sperm (yeah, get lost sperm!). The Copper IUD is not subsidized by the PBS but can last up to 10 years.
So how do they work?
Both types of IUDs work by thinning the lining of the uterus, making life difficult for sperm to fertilize an egg.
Cool cool, all sounds good, but why are they popular again?
IUDs – especially hormonal IUDs – are one of the most effective forms of contraception, ranging from 99.5%-99.9% effective. Their limited side effects, effectiveness, and low maintenance also makes them the most popular form of contraception aside from the male condom (and even trendier than the contraceptive pill!).
Hormonal IUDs can be particularly helpful if you’re someone who has experienced heavy and painful periods, because one of its side effects can be reducing heavy bleeding. Unfortunately, the opposite is true of the Copper IUD.
This sounds great! I want one! But how?
We can refer you to a specialist who can help. We’ve even created an online database called Pregnancy Choices Tasmania that can help you find the right service for you, whether it be a GP, pharmacy, gynecologist, hospital, pathologist or imaging clinic that provides sexual and reproductive health information or services in Tasmania. You can search here: https://www.pregnancychoicestas.org.au/ or contact your local Family Planning centre to learn more about the process.
Our gold nuggets of wisdom:
- When it comes to your body, you are the expert, so stand up for yourself and tell your doctor what you need to make your IUD insertion experience as comfortable as possible.
- If you can, keep the day free to rest. This is a medical procedure, and it can be painful.
- Your uterus can begin to cramp after the insertion, and so having someone available to hold your hand through it, drive you home and care for you afterwards can be really helpful.
- Bring a heat pack and take pain relief beforehand. Your doctor will likely recommend you take Panadol and ibuprofen. If you think this is enough for you, great! If not, advocate for what you need. Indicators that you might experience higher levels of pain include having a history of painful periods, not having been pregnant before, and sometimes experiencing pain during sex.
- After both the ABC and Triple J Hack reported on women’s reactions to painful IUD procedures, Frankston Public Hospital in Melbourne became one of the first in the country to offer women Penthrox, commonly known as the ‘green whistle’ for painful IUD procedures.
- Some GPs and sexual health clinics may already offer this but if you’re not sure, tell your doctor about it. And if you want it, just ask! The more demand from patients, the more likely they are to implement this change and take our pain seriously.
Remember that knowledge is power! Talk with your doctor about what to expect during the procedure, ask about pain relief options, and to seek information from credible sources to combat any anxiety you might have. You can do this!
References
- Family Planning Tasmania: www.ftp.org.au
- The Royal Women’s Hospital https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/contraception/intra-uterine-device-iud/
- “Considering an IUD but worried about pain during insertion? Here’s what to expect.” Deborah Bateson & Kathleen McNamee, The Conversation, May 16, 2022
- “Insertion and removal of IUDs can be painful and not being prepared can make it all worse” www.abc.net.au/everyday
- “Having an IUD inserted can be excruciatingly painful. Why aren’t women being warned or given stronger pain relief? Claudia Long & Ellie Grounds for triple jHack and Background Briefing www.abc.net.au/news
- “Implants and IUDs are the most effective contraception. Why aren’t more of us using them?” Claudia Long, triplejHack, 27 October 2020