Correcting Misunderstandings (see also Questions and Answers)

Intrauterine devices:

  • Can be used by women of any age, including adolescents.
  • Can be used by women who have had children and those who have not.
  • Rarely lead to PID. 
  • Do not increase the risk of contracting STIs, including HIV.
  • Do not increase the risk of miscarriage when a woman become pregnant after the IUD is removed. 
  • Do not make women infertile.
  • Do not cause birth defects.
  • Do not cause cancer.
  • Do not move to the heart or brain.
  • Do not cause discomfort or pain for the woman or man during sex.
  • Substantially reduce the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
Why Some Women Say They Like the IUD
  • Prevents pregnancy very effectively
  • Is long-lasting
  • Is private—usually no one else can tell a woman is using contraception (sometimes a partner may feel the strings during sex) 
  • Has no further costs after the IUD is inserted
  • Does not require the user to do anything once the IUD is inserted

IUD