The insertion of an IUD is often experienced by women as uncomfortable. For this reason, we have specialised in carrying out the procedure with minimal pain and as quickly as possible.

IUDs are the method of choice when it comes to reliable contraception. IUDs can be divided into two groups:

  • Hormonal IUDs
  • Non-hormonal IUDs: e.g. copper / gold IUDs

Hormonal IUD

The hormonal IUD has the shape of a small T that releases a hormone. The IUD is inserted into the woman’s uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is one of the most effective methods of contraception. In our practice we offer the following hormonal IUDs:

  • Kyleena hormonal IUD
  • Jaydess hormonal IUD
  • Mirena hormonal IUD

We are happy to answer any further questions during your appointment before the insertion.

How does a hormonal IUD work?

The hormonal IUD consists of an approximately 3 cm long T-shaped plastic body which, after insertion into the uterus, releases the hormone levonorgestrel in a constant amount (20 or 14 µg per 24 h) into the body. At the lower end of the IUD is a loop to which the control threads are attached, which the patient can feel for herself.

Both the plastic body with its special T-shape and the hormone levonorgestrel prevent pregnancy in the following ways:

  • The mucus in the cervix is thickened by levonorgestrel, making it less permeable to sperm.
  • The motility of sperm that nevertheless pass through the cervix is inhibited.
  • Egg maturation and ovulation are influenced and, in some women, suppressed.
  • The build-up of the uterine lining is reduced, and consequently so is menstrual blood flow.

Copper IUD / Gold IUD

The copper IUD consists of a plastic structure, 2.5 to 3.5 centimetres in size, wound with fine copper wire or a copper-gold alloy. Another variant, the so-called gold IUD, is supplemented by a gold core, which gives it greater durability. Gold is highly resistant to corrosion and chemically inert, and can therefore be classified as hypoallergenic.

Many copper IUDs in use today have the shape of a T. However, other variants, such as loops or the shape of the number 7, are also possible. At the lower end of the IUD is a loop to which retrieval threads are attached, protruding about 1 to 2 cm from the cervix.

How does a copper IUD / gold IUD work?

Several mechanisms are at work:

  • Copper ions have a toxic and inhibitory effect on sperm, reducing their motility and lifespan. The effect of the copper is locally limited to the uterus and fallopian tubes.
  • In addition, as a foreign body the IUD causes a sterile inflammatory reaction of the uterine lining, so that its altered condition and the cytotoxic enzymes it produces prevent nidation (implantation).
  • Inflammatory cells, such as macrophages, can also directly break down sperm (phagocytosis).
  • An effect on fallopian tube function impedes the transport of egg cells and sperm.
  • The use of a gold-copper alloy in the so-called gold IUDs is intended to reduce the risk of infection and inflammation through an antibacterial and antifungal effect.
  • A microgalvanic effect in the gold-copper alloys is also intended to reduce the orientation ability and motility of sperm.