Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

The IUD is a small, plastic T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy for up to ten years. All IUDs are considered 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Types of IUDs

There are five types of hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs currently available in the United States: the Mirena™ IUD, the ParaGard™ IUD, Skyla™, Liletta™, and Kyleena™.

Most IUDs are covered as preventative care by insurance. Even without insurance, IUDs are cost-effective over time, low-maintenance, and easily reversible if a woman wants to get pregnant. Any form of IUD can be used if a person is healthy, regardless of whether they have previously given birth to a child.

Offered at UHS:

Mirena™

• Releases the hormone progestin
• Can stay in place for up to eight years
• May reduce cramps and lighten or stop menstruation
• May cause irregular bleeding

ParaGard™

• Non-hormonal
• Has copper wire around it
• Can stay in place for up to ten years
• May cause longer and heavier periods and /or increase cramping.

Other Options:

Skyla™

• Releases lower dose of the hormone progestin
• Can stay in place for up to three years
• May lighten menstruation
• Slightly smaller in size than Mirena

Liletta™

• Releases the hormone progestin
• Can stay in place three to five years
• May lighten or stop menstruation
• Explicitly approved for those who have not given birth to a child

Kyleena™

• Releases the hormone progestin
• Can stay in place for up to three years
• Same size as Skyla
• Releases more progestin than Skyla, but less than Mirena

IUDs do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Use condoms to reduce the risk of STI transmission.

To schedule an appointment to obtain an IUD at UHS, call the Gynecology Clinic at 512-475-8242.

Healthy Sexuality