title: Modern intra-uterine devices.
abstract: Modern intrauterine devices (IUDs) provide effective, safe and long-term contraception and could be recommended to most women. The mechanism of action of an IUD is still not fully understood, but most recent research suggests that copper-IUDs as well as hormone-releasing intrauterine systems (IUSs) prevent conception. In women in mutually monogamous relationships the risk of PID is low and related to the insertion procedure. IUD/IUS use should be discouraged if there is a suspicion of increased risk of sexually transmitted disease. The risk of ectopic pregnancy is extremely low if modern, highly effective IUDs/IUSs are used. Copper-IUDs increase menstrual blood loss by around 50%, whereas hormone-releasing IUSs substantially reduce menstrual blood loss. Careful patient selection and counselling are the most important tools in order to provide acceptable and safe IUD use.
authors: Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Uppsala, Sweden.
authors: V
authors: V
authors: Odlind
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D005298:Fertility; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D007434:Intrauterine Devices / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000145:classification / Q000266:history; D008598:Menstruation; D000292:Pelvic Inflammatory Disease / Q000209:etiology; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011247:Pregnancy; D011271:Pregnancy, Ectopic / Q000209:etiology; D012307:Risk Factors