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Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers

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Family Planning

A GLOBAL HANDBOOK FOR PROVIDERS

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Side Effects, Health Benefits, Health Risks, and Complications

Side Effects (see Managing Any Problems)

Some users report the following:

  • Changes in bleeding patterns (especially in the first 3 to 6 months) including:

    • Prolonged and heavy monthly bleeding
    • Irregular bleeding
    • More cramps and pain during monthly bleeding

Known Health Benefits

Known Health Risks

Help protect against:

  • Risks of pregnancy

May help protect against:

  • Cancer of the lining of the uterus (endometrial cancer)

Uncommon:

  • May contribute to anemia if a woman already has low iron blood stores before insertion and the IUD causes heavier monthly bleeding

Rare:

  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) may occur if the woman has chlamydia or gonorrhea at the time of IUD insertion

Complications

Rare:

  • Puncturing (perforation) of the wall of the uterus by the IUD or an instrument used for insertion. Usually heals without treatment.
  • Miscarriage, preterm birth, or infection in the rare case that the woman becomes pregnant with the IUD in place.

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