THE BENEFITS OF IUD AS A LONG-ACTING REVERSIBLE CONTRACEPTION (LARC) METHOD

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) is a form of birth control that provides long-term pregnancy prevention and can be reversed when you decide to become pregnant.¹ This contraceptive works for 3 to 10 years and hence, after insertion, you don’t have to think about it for some time. 

Intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) are a form of LARC. An IUD is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a medical professional to prevent unintended pregnancies.

Who Is Suitable to Use the LARC Method with an IUD?

IUDs are more than 99% effective.² They are also a suitable contraceptive method for long-term family planning. In fact, it is a good method to use right after having a baby. You can have an IUD inserted within 48 hours of giving birth, or you can opt to have it inserted 4-6 weeks postpartum.³

It is worth noting that a specific type of IUD containing progestin hormone is designed to provide long-acting contraception. It is inserted into the uterine cavity, where it remains effective for up to 5 years. The device has a low failure rate of approximately 0.2% at 1 year and 0.7% at 5 years when used for contraception.⁴

Before getting an IUD inserted, it’s important to know the different types of IUDs that are available in Malaysia , so you can make an informed decision.

The Different Types of Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUD)

There are two types of IUDs you can choose from, namely hormonal IUD and non-hormonal copper IUD.

Hormonal IUD

Hormonal IUDs work by releasing the hormone progestin. This hormone thickens the cervical mucus and thins the uterine lining, stopping sperm from reaching and fertilizing eggs.

They work for 5 years. One of the upsides to using a hormonal IUD is that it can help to ease heavy bleeding and menstrual pain.⁵

Non-Hormonal Copper IUD (IUCD)

IUCDs don’t release hormones. They are made with copper, which is a spermicide. In other words, copper immobilizes the sperm that comes into contact with it. Without sperm, fertilization cannot occur, preventing unintended pregnancies.

In the event a sperm makes it through to fertilize an egg, copper makes it hard for the fertilized egg to implant in the uterine lining.⁵

Non-hormonal IUCDs last up to 10 years and can be a suitable option in Malaysia for those who cannot tolerate hormonal birth control.⁶

The Effectiveness of IUD

One of the major benefits of using LARC method with an IUD is that there’s no user failure.⁶ Its effectiveness does not rely on you remembering to use it. Hence, this method is especially good for those who often forget to take or use other contraceptives.

It’s inserted inside the uterus and thereafter works to prevent pregnancies whenever you have sexual intercourse. IUDs are increasingly popular due to their high effectiveness. It is also reversible and requires little maintenance other than checking to see if it’s still in place once a month.⁸

Understand Your Needs and Consult a Specialist Before Getting an IUD

When it comes to choosing the right birth control, always do your research and seek professional advice. Without the correct facts, we are more likely to make contraceptive choices that don’t suit our individual needs.

Consult a medical professional to address any concerns or queries you may have about different contraceptive options. With knowledge of your medical history, a specialist will be able to recommend a suitable IUD contraceptive in Malaysia that works for you.

Visit Howuknow for more information on IUDs and other contraceptives.

References

1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23269-larc
2. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/how-effective-contraception/#:~:text=Intrauterine%20device%20(IUD)%3A%20more,Older%20types%20are%20less%20effective.
3. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/when-contraception-after-baby/
4. https://quest3plus.bpfk.gov.my/front-end/attachment/9873/pharma/210451/V_54355_20210518_103342_D3.pdf
5. https://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/types-of-iuds-which-one-is-right-for-you
6. https://www.guirguisobgyn.com/blog/hormonal-vs-copper-iuds-which-is-right-for-you#:~:text=IUDs%20offer%20long%2Dterm%20protection,years%20depending%20on%20the%20brand.
7. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/how-effective-contraception/#:~:text=Long%2Dactive%20reversible,with%20typical%20use.
8. https://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/features/iud-out-of-place