≡× MENU

• Repair
• Repair
• Interior Design
• About everything
• About plumbing

Female spiral from pregnancy. Questions. The process of installing an intrauterine device, side effects, consequences

Contraception is one of the most exciting issues in the adult life of every woman. There are many ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy. One of the reliable protection options recommended by gynecologists is the intrauterine device (IUD). How painless the spiral installation procedure itself is, how long it lasts - these are equally important issues for women who decide to choose this method of contraception.

How to place an intrauterine device

Before you opt for one or another contraceptive, you need to weigh the pros and cons. The choice of contraceptives is quite large. The advantages of the intrauterine device include the fact that it acts from several positions at once in order to prevent pregnancy:

Where can I have the procedure

You can put an IUD only in a clinic. Only a qualified obstetrician-gynecologist should carry out the procedure.

Installation of the IUD in polyclinics is free. If you go to a paid clinic, then the procedure will cost you from 250 to 3000 rubles.

Indications and contraindications for the installation of the IUD

The spiral does not require special indications for use. The main thing is protection against unwanted pregnancy, when taking hormonal drugs is impossible or undesirable for certain reasons. A hormonal spiral can be prescribed for medicinal purposes (for example, with heavy periods with an unexplained cause, with endometrial hyperplasia - the inner layer of the uterus).

There may be several contraindications:

• inflammatory processes of the uterus, ovaries, vagina;
• pregnancy;
• pathological changes in the cervix;
• ectopic pregnancy in history;
• malignant and benign changes in reproductive organs;
• diseases of the circulatory system;
• age (as a rule, young nulliparous girls do not put a spiral).

Video: the difference between hormonal spirals and other types

Is advance preparation necessary?

Before the doctor takes up the installation of the IUD, a woman needs to undergo several important procedures, collect a brief history and, if necessary, undergo treatment. The usual diagnostic procedures that a gynecologist will prescribe include:

If, according to the results of the examination, the doctor has doubts about the state of the woman’s health, then the procedure is postponed until the doctor is sure that everything is in order.

In what period of the cycle is the IUD inserted?

Putting the Navy on any day will not work. This procedure is always tied to the beginning of the menstrual cycle (usually it is carried out on the 4-5th day of the cycle). And there are two good reasons for this:

There are two periods when a woman can put a spiral, regardless of the beginning of the cycle:

• Right after the abortion. At this moment, the cervical canal is opened to the maximum, the woman is under anesthesia, pregnancy is 100% excluded.
• After childbirth, when the cycle has not yet recovered. After independent childbirth, the spiral is placed after the end of the lochia (postpartum discharge) closer to the third month after the joyful event. But after a caesarean section, you will have to wait six months: the scar on the uterus should heal well.

How is the procedure carried out

Insertion of the IUD does not require hospitalization. Manipulation is carried out on an outpatient basis in the treatment room. The whole procedure takes about 10 minutes:

1. The woman is located in the gynecological chair, as in a normal examination.
2. The doctor installs a vaginal dilator with a mirror, treats the cervix with an anesthetic. If necessary, it is possible to give an analgesic injection, as a rule, it is lidocaine.
3. The doctor then measures the size of the uterus with a special instrument to match it with the size of the coil.
4. The doctor introduces the contraceptive itself, opening a sterile package with a spiral in the presence of the patient.
5. All spirals are supplied with control threads. The doctor trims them, leaving about 2 cm protruding from the uterus. When there is no need for further use of the spiral, the doctor will remove the IUD by pulling on these antennae.
6. To reduce discomfort after installation, the doctor may give the patient an anesthetic injection.

Video: intrauterine device installation technique

What does a woman feel during an IUD insertion?

During the installation of the spiral, a woman may experience slight discomfort. The sensations are similar to menstrual pain. They can be stored for several days, but not more than a week. This is normal.

The first and subsequent periods after the installation of 2-3 periods may be painful and more plentiful than usual. At this time, you need to be especially vigilant, since spontaneous release of the contraceptive is possible.

9-12 weeks after the installation of the spiral, it is recommended to undergo a control ultrasound to make sure that the contraceptive is in the correct position. In the future, such ultrasound should be performed once every six months.

Side effects and complications

Like any medical intervention, finding a foreign body inside the organ cavity is fraught with complications and may have side effects.

Side effects include:

If any symptoms disturbing the woman appear after the installation of the spiral, it would be useful to consult a doctor who will determine exactly whether it is worth worrying.

Complications are:

• puncture of the body of the uterus;
• pain and discomfort during the day or during intercourse - the wrong size of the spiral or its displacement;
• ingrowth of the spiral into the body of the uterus - an error in choosing the size, inflammatory processes.

The following symptoms may indicate a serious complication:

• sharp pain in the lower abdomen;
• pallor of the skin, accompanied by increased sweating;
• increased heart rate.

When such signs appear, you should immediately call the ambulance brigade.

When and how is the IUD removed?

The spiral can be removed at any time, both at the request of the woman and as prescribed by the doctor. At the request of the woman, the removal procedure is carried out in the same period of the cycle as the installation. For emergency removal, there are indications:

• inflammatory processes and infectious diseases of the pelvic organs;
• displacement of the spiral, the disappearance of the antennae or a change in their length;
• uterine bleeding;
• absence of menstruation.

Removal of the uterine contraceptive is carried out by a doctor. Before the procedure, a woman undergoes the same tests as before installing the spiral.

The beginning of the uninstall procedure is absolutely identical to the installation. And the removal itself is carried out with the help of antennae, the doctor pulls out the spiral by pulling the control threads.

Often, from the conversations of friends or in queues at the antenatal clinic, you can hear stories about intrauterine devices, various reviews on them and impressions about this contraceptive. But what is it and what does it do? Will this affect the hormonal background of a woman, her ability to become a mother someday and, of course, will she be able to protect her from certain diseases? Is this method reliable for preventing unwanted pregnancy and are there differences between them?

We will try to understand these issues, consider 6 popular intrauterine devices and find out what are the differences between them. Which spiral to choose?

What is an IUD (intrauterine device)?

- this is one of the effective means of contraception, which is often used by women who have given birth, most often with a permanent partner and are not currently ready for motherhood again.

Like any other type of contraception, spirals differ in their composition, type, duration of use, and other parameters.

Classification

There are 2 groups of spirals:

• hormonal;
• non-hormonal.

Both perform the same task - protection from unwanted pregnancies. But some of them have additional properties. For example, they are often used in gynecological practice as a way to treat certain diseases, and non-hormonal spirals with the addition of silver or gold have a bactericidal effect and protect the female reproductive system from unwanted infections.

There are 3 generations of spirals:

1st generation

• IUD without any metal or hormone, consisting only of medical plastic.
• Their contraceptive effect is achieved only by the mechanical impossibility of attaching the fetal egg to the endometrium.
• Often cause complications (infectious diseases, ectopic pregnancy and spiral prolapse - expulsion).

IUDs of the 1st generation are not used now, as there are more reliable and efficient coils.

2nd generation

• IUDs containing metal in their composition. That is, these are spirals, also consisting of medical plastic, but having a contraceptive effect due to additional components - copper, silver, gold.
• Metals act not only on the female body, but also on the male factor - spermatozoa, and thereby reduce the risk of an unplanned pregnancy.

3rd generation

• Hormonal spirals, which at this stage are used as therapeutic and contraceptive agents.

Intrauterine devices have different shapes:

• t-shaped;
• round or semicircular;
• in the form of an umbrella;
• in the shape of a horseshoe (semi-oval).

Each spiral has its advantages and disadvantages and is selected individually depending on the characteristics of the body of a particular woman.

All spirals have the same principle of action - protection from unwanted pregnancy.

So, how does the spiral help to avoid conception?

All coils are made of medical plastic, which rarely causes an allergic reaction in women. But such cases do occur. For this reason, you need to carefully monitor your feelings and monitor the reaction of the body after installing the spiral.

In addition to medical plastic, modern spirals include:

• metals (silver, copper, gold);
• hormones.

Hormonal spiral

This type of IUD releases a certain amount of a hormone that not only affects the female body, but also reduces sperm activity. The spiral does not affect male potency and male health! Only on spermatozoa that have already entered the female genital tract. The only tangible disadvantage that intrauterine devices can deliver to a man is the feeling of the antennae of the spiral during intercourse. This issue is easily solved: you need to come to the doctor's office, and the gynecologist will simply shorten the interfering antennae of the spiral.

The hormone in the spiral affects the maturation and release of eggs by the ovaries of a woman and does not have a destructive effect on the hormonal background as a whole.

The very presence of the spiral in the uterus prevents the attachment of the fetal egg and, accordingly, pregnancy does not occur. This is a mechanical factor of protection from pregnancy. Also, the spiral causes a local reaction that adversely affects spermatozoa, inhibiting and destroying them.

Hormonal spirals affect many female diseases (, etc.) and are recommended for use by gynecologists for the treatment of the latter.

Non-hormonal spiral

As for the IUDs, which have metals in their composition, such designs, in addition to the mechanical factor of protection against pregnancy inherent in all spirals, have a detrimental effect on the male factor in their arsenal. For example:

• Copper, oxidizing the environment, inhibits the movement of spermatozoa that have entered the uterine cavity, and damages them.
• Silver and gold increase the shelf life of coils and have a positive effect on local immunity, protecting a woman from inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs.

All types of spirals have a stimulating effect on the fallopian tubes and increase their peristalsis. While the fetal egg is rapidly moving into the uterine cavity, the endometrium does not have time to prepare for the adoption of a new life, and as a result, the embryo enters an unfavorable environment that is not suitable for further development.

Summing up, we can distinguish the links of fertilization, which are influenced by any spiral:

• On the male factor (inhibitory and spermicidal action).
• For the maturation and release of the egg from the ovaries.
• For the delivery of the egg and the fetal egg through the fallopian tubes.
• Attachment of the fertilized egg to the endometrium.
• A local reaction that causes the release of enzymes that are detrimental to spermatozoa.

Who can put an intrauterine device?

• The desire of the woman herself at this stage of life not to become a mother (provided that there is already a history of childbirth).
• Frequent pregnancies with other types of contraception (if they are used incorrectly or inattentively in taking).
• Prevention of unwanted pregnancy during lactation (breastfeeding).
• In order to save money. Spirals are placed for several years, which allows a woman not to worry about other types of contraception (oral contraceptives, condoms).

Important! Coils do not protect against STIs (sexually transmitted infections)! It is recommended to install a contraceptive with an existing permanent sexual partner (low risk of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases). It should also be mentioned that coils are used in women who have given birth and are not recommended for contraception in young women who have not given birth.

Spiral setting technique

The spiral is installed both during menstruation and immediately in the first days after it, since at this time it is more likely. In addition, the cervix during this period is slightly ajar, which makes it easier for the spiral to enter the uterine cavity and cause minimal discomfort to the woman.

Before installing the spiral, the doctor conducts research on the presence of inflammatory diseases and, if necessary, prescribes anti-inflammatory therapy. This reduces the risk of complications and spiral loss in the future. The process itself takes place only in the office of a gynecologist, under aseptic conditions.

If a woman decides, then you should wait a while (about 6 weeks) for the uterus to return to its previous state. The fact is that during pregnancy, the uterus is overstretched, and after childbirth, it gradually returns to its previous size. This process is called uterine involution. In order to avoid complications after the installation of the spiral, gynecologists recommend waiting for the end of the involution.

It is not recommended to install an intrauterine device immediately after an abortion. The patient should be observed for the presence of complications and various inflammatory diseases that could provoke an abortion. As soon as the obstetrician-gynecologist is convinced of the complete health of the woman, the spiral can be placed in the uterine cavity.

In the instructions for some spirals there are marks about setting a contraceptive immediately after an abortion. This issue should be addressed individually with an experienced doctor and follow his advice in this matter.

Overview of intrauterine devices: the most popular means

There are a huge number of intrauterine contraceptives on the market, which have a different shape, composition, terms of use and, of course, the price range. All of them have their advantages and disadvantages.

So, consider the most commonly used and popular spirals:

Spiral Multiload (Multiload CU-375)

This is a T-shaped copper wire helix. It is not hormonal. The metal affects the spermatozoa, causing their death and the impossibility of further fertilization.

The shelf life of the spiral is 4 years. After this period, the spiral can not be used in any case!

Rod length - 35 mm. This is a standard length, the spiral has no other variations in size. It is suitable for women who, after measuring the size of the uterus with a probe, the length of its cavity is from 6 to 9 cm.

Of the features of the spiral, it should be noted that its use is prohibited in such situations:

• with an existing allergy to copper;
• in the first 3 months after an abortion;
• during the period of breastfeeding.

If a woman takes immunosuppressants for a long time to treat another pathology, the spiral is not suitable, and another method of contraception should be selected.

It should be noted that the presence of copper in the composition of the contraceptive will not affect the total amount of copper in the body.

The price range is in the region of 2.5-3 thousand rubles.

Spiral Copper (Copper TCu 380A)

Like the previous spiral, it incorporates copper. Spiral dimensions - vertical - 36 mm, horizontal - 32 mm. A feature of this spiral is a greater release of copper in the uterine cavity, which causes a stronger local reaction.

The term of use is 5-6 years.

Another tip: after installation, you should lie down on the couch in the doctor's office. In rare cases, after the introduction of the IUD, there is a decrease in the pulse and clouding of consciousness.

All other properties are the same as for the Multiload spiral.

The price fluctuates around 2 thousand rubles

Spiral Goldlily (Goldlily)

It contains both copper and one of the noble metals - gold. Gold coats the copper surface, protecting it from early oxidation and corrosion. By creating a potential difference, additional protection against unwanted pregnancy is created. Gold has a powerful bactericidal effect and prevents the occurrence of inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs.

Another advantage of the contraceptive is the availability of several sizes. Each woman will be able to choose exactly the option that she needs.

The term of use is 7 years.

The main downside is the price. Due to the presence of gold, the cost of an intrauterine contraceptive is about 4-5 thousand rubles.

Spiral Juno Bio-T with Silver (Ag)

Another spiral in the line of modern contraceptives. The instruction offers the following indications for the use of a spiral (except for the desire of a woman):

• Treatment and prevention of Asherman's syndrome (formation of adhesions in the uterine cavity).
• For postcoital protection (can be administered within 3-4 days after unprotected intercourse).

It contains copper and silver in its composition, which increases the duration of the period of use up to 7 years. Silver prevents early and rapid oxidation of copper, which gives the coil a longer-term effect.

Another useful quality of silver is its bactericidal effect. Juno protects a woman's body from inflammatory diseases and other infectious complications associated with the presence of a spiral in the uterine cavity.

Juno works on the same principle as other spirals, affecting all links in the chain to prevent unwanted pregnancy. The price of this product is also attractive - about 400-500 rubles.

Spiral Nova T (Nova T)

T-shaped helix containing copper and silver (copper wire with silver in the core). As in Juno, in the Nova T helix, silver prevents early fragmentation of copper. But the difference is the period of use - Nova T should be changed every 5 years. No specific features were identified for other mechanisms of action.

The price is about 1500-2000 rubles.

Spiral Mirena (Mirena)

One of the most common means of intrauterine contraception is the hormonal system. This drug contains a synthetic progestogen - levonorgestrel. It is released per day in a certain required amount, which is sufficient to perform two functions - contraceptive and therapeutic. That is why this spiral is often recommended for women with gynecological diseases (myoma, endometriosis, etc.).

Mirena inhibits ovulation and prevents the formation of a fetal egg, which increases its contraceptive effect. The Pearl Index of the hormonal intrauterine system is 0.1-0.5, while for conventional IUDs it reaches 3.

Important aspects:

• The spiral does not affect the hormonal background.
• Not contraindicated in women with metal allergies.
• Approved for use during breastfeeding.
• It is a 3rd generation spiral.

Mirena has a shelf life of 5 years. Further use is not recommended due to the depletion of the hormone supply in the coil and the increased possibility of developing infectious diseases of the pelvic organs.

This contraceptive has a high cost - about 10-12 thousand rubles.

Dear girls and women! Remember that for an accurate and correct selection of the spiral, you must definitely consult a doctor, because each female body is unique and unrepeatable!

In contact with

In order to prevent unwanted pregnancy, women, like men, use contraceptives. For girls who have already become mothers, in addition to birth control pills, an intrauterine device can be installed. However, this contraceptive has application features that should be discussed with a gynecologist. In addition to the main questions, many women are also interested in when they put the spiral before or after menstruation.

Only a gynecologist can install the uterine device

To prevent conception, if desired, a woman can install an intrauterine device. The procedure must be carried out by a medical specialist with the necessary qualifications.

Note! The installation of the spiral in the uterine cavity is carried out only after the patient has undergone a complete examination. Diagnosis is necessary to identify contraindications and possible risks of side effects.

Stages of the introduction of the IUD:

• two-handed gynecological examination on a chair to determine the location of organs and the proposed location of the spiral;
• antiseptic treatment of the skin and mucous membranes of the external genital organs;
• the introduction of a gynecological mirror (to display the external uterine opening);
• with the help of a clamp, the upper uterine lip is grasped and pulled back;
• insertion of a probe directly to the bottom of the uterus to measure the length of the uterine cavity;
• removing the coil from the package;
• a spiral is inserted through the cervix in a special tube;
• after the IUD reaches the bottom of the organ, the tube is removed by pulling;
• cutting the antennae of the contraceptive spiral;
• removal of gynecological instruments.

It is very important that the spiral is correctly installed

This procedure can cause discomfort and slight pain if all the doctor's manipulations are performed correctly. The mini-operation takes about 5 minutes, after which the woman can safely go home.

What are the contraindications for the installation

A gynecological procedure for inserting an IUD should not be carried out if, as a result of the diagnosis, the woman has contraindications:

• acute stage of inflammatory and infectious diseases of the genitourinary system and genital organs;
• cancer of the organs located in the pelvic area;
• any form and stage of STDs;
• tumor formations of a large size;
• pregnancy;
• allergy to the material from which the IUD was made;
• abnormal deviations that prevent the correct installation of the contraceptive.

Neglect of contraindications can lead to serious consequences, including oncological processes.

What types of spirals exist

Pharmaceutical companies produce many intrauterine systems to prevent egg fertilization. The choice of a suitable spiral should be determined by the gynecologist individually, based on all the data of the state of the patient's body.

First generation coils are made of plastic

Contraceptives of this type are classified in two categories: generation and form. By development time (generation):

1. I generation - an inert type of product, made of plastic without metal impurities. Causes inflammation and disrupts the process of implantation of the egg in the uterine wall. Banned by the Ministry of Health due to frequent adverse reactions.
2. II generation - metal-containing contraceptives. A silver, copper or gold thread is wound on the leg of a plastic spiral. The contraceptive effect is an obstacle to the implantation of a fertilized female egg.
3. III generation - a hormone-containing helix, which contains progestin (levonorgestrel). Gives a result of 99%.

IUDs are issued in one of three forms:

• ring-shaped - can be in the form of a circle or a semicircle;
• S - shaped - fastened by spikes located on the "shoulders";
• T-shaped - have a rod and "shoulders", belong to the 3rd generation.

Each type of spiral has a number of features and disadvantages. At the same time, the choice of a suitable IUD model is individual for each woman.

What are the benefits of a spiral

Modern pharmacology offers many methods of contraception for women. However, pills and intrauterine devices still remain popular, giving almost 100% protection against pregnancy.

The spiral is an effective remedy against conception

The action of the spiral is to disrupt the formation of the egg, which is why it cannot be fertilized. If conception is nevertheless carried out, thanks to the spiral, the fetal egg is not attached to the wall and is excreted from the body.

Advantages:

• does not require any additional contraceptive measures;
• does not affect lactation;
• rapid restoration of reproductive function after removal;
• not related to the frequency and nature of sexual intercourse;
• does not have a systemic effect.

One of the advantages of the IUD is significant cost savings. They put spirals for up to 10 years, depending on the model.

What are the disadvantages of a spiral

The intrauterine device for the body is a foreign body that disrupts natural processes, therefore, it is impossible to exclude the negative consequences of this method of contraception.

Often after the installation of the spiral, inflammation occurs

The disadvantages of the spiral include:

• development of inflammatory processes of the genital organs;
• are not protection against STDs;
• after menstruation, a check of the position of the spiral is required;
• not recommended for girls who have not yet given birth to children;
• installation or removal can only be carried out in a medical facility;
• increases the abundance of menstruation;
• may cause discomfort for the first time after installation

Many women complain that when installing the Mirena spiral, there are no periods in the first month. Such a reaction of the body is possible and it is not considered normal. If after the installation of the IUD there is no menstruation or if symptoms are observed that are uncharacteristic of menstruation, an urgent need to contact a gynecologist.

What are the features of the installation after childbirth and abortion

Women who have recently given birth or had an abortion, as a rule, do not want a second pregnancy. In order to preserve the sensations during intercourse, but at the same time prevent unwanted conception, they seek to put an IUD.

After childbirth, you can put a spiral not immediately, but after a while

When a procedure can be performed after childbirth or a medical abortion, and whether it is possible to put a spiral without menstruation - these are questions that often interest women. The menstrual cycle in this case does not play a big role if there are no contraindications. Concerning the last pregnancy, it is necessary to consider each case separately.

You can install a spiral after childbirth no earlier than 1.5 months later, when the discharge ends and the organs are fully restored. In this case, after a caesarean section, the remedy can be installed no earlier than after 6 months. After an abortion (regardless of its type), the IUD can be inserted into the uterine cavity after 7 days, if there are no complications. The procedure itself is no different.

Women who have given birth, according to their reviews, experience less pain and discomfort, since the cervix is ​​​​expanded and the cervical canal is easily accessible.

What day of the cycle is set

You can put an IUD on any day of the cycle, if the woman is absolutely sure that there is no pregnancy. Girls who decide on this procedure often have difficulty: to put a spiral before or after menstruation.

It is best to put a spiral during menstruation

Gynecologists do not recommend putting a spiral after menstruation, despite the fact that this is not prohibited. Inserting a contraceptive outside of your period can cause more pain. This is due to the narrowing of the cervix of the uterus, increased tissue tone and difficult access to the attachment site.

The most suitable period, according to experts, is the 1st or 6th day of menstruation. Adaptation in this case is much easier, and the risk of developing inflammatory or infectious processes is less.

What is the menstruation after the installation of the IUD

There is a relationship between menstruation and the intrauterine device. Menstruation with the Mirena spiral or another IUD model changes the nature of the discharge in the first cycle.

In 70% of women, menstruation becomes more abundant and prolonged due to the adaptive reaction of the endometrium to a foreign object. The imbalance of the hormonal background, which occurs due to a violation of the natural processes of formation and maturation of the egg, also has an effect.

After the installation of the spiral, the duration of menstruation increases

Normally, menstruation can be profuse, but not excessive. If the discharge becomes symptomatic of bleeding, there are cramping attacks, there is a sharp pain in the abdomen, you should immediately contact the gynecologists, the rejection of the IUD from the body is not excluded.

Can I remove the IUD myself

The installation of the spiral is carried out in sanitary conditions by a gynecologist. The product must also be removed by a specialist. However, sometimes women tend to perform the procedure on their own, as they believe that there is nothing complicated in this manipulation.

The reason for removing the IUD is:

• expiration of the contraceptive;
• the appearance of complications;
• planned pregnancy.

You will find more details about uterine spirals in this video:

Regardless of the reasons, you cannot remove the product yourself. Such actions can lead to injury to the uterus, the opening of bleeding, infection and the development of inflammation. It is also not recommended to remove the spiral without menstruation. If there are no emergency indications, it is better to wait for menstruation.

A woman who decides to introduce an IUD into the body should take into account the relationship between menstruation and a spiral for contraception. To be prepared for all the features and prevent complications, you should consult with a gynecologist before coming to the procedure.

Installation of an intrauterine device is a safe procedure for introducing a contraceptive into the uterine cavity. It can be used as an elective or emergency procedure after unprotected sex if there is a risk of pregnancy.

The hormonal spiral in gynecology is a method of treatment and a variant of hormone replacement therapy in women before menopause.

How does the uterine coil work?

The cost of installing an IUD depends on the list of related services and the level of the clinic. Without taking into account the cost of the spiral, the introduction costs from 2000 rubles. If you conduct a comprehensive survey before installation, the price rises to 17,000 rubles.

The recommendations of doctors after the installation of the IUD are reduced to limiting weight lifting and sexual activity up to 2 weeks, and if the pain syndrome persists, until the discomfort disappears. This will reduce the chance of the IUD falling out.

For women who do not have a permanent sexual partner and easily engage in casual sex, the intrauterine device is not suitable. They need to choose barrier methods of contraception that will protect against infection.

With prolonged bleeding, delayed menstruation, you need to consult a gynecologist to exclude the inflammatory process or pregnancy.

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a contraceptive device that is a loop, ring or resembles the appearance of the letter T and is inserted into the uterine cavity using a special applicator.

The parent of this device is the German gynecologist Richter, who back in 1909 suggested using 2-3 silk threads twisted into a ring and placed in the uterus for the purpose of contraception. His invention was improved by another German doctor, Grefenberg, who in 1929 added copper and silver wire to silk threads.

However, such products were not particularly popular, because they were too hard, caused pain in the abdomen and provoked bleeding.

Only in 1960, after the metal in them was replaced with soft, polymeric plastic and polymer IUDs were born, this method of contraception became widespread.

How does the Navy work?

There are various forms and types of IUDs. However, the principle of operation of the intrauterine device in any case is based on the fact that it represents a foreign body and, by its presence in the uterus, causes several effects:

• Mechanically disrupts the ability of the endometrium to regenerate and makes it unsuitable for the attachment of a fertilized egg.
• Stimulates the release of prostaglandins and thereby increases the tone of the uterus, which also prevents the attachment of the egg.
• It enhances the production of macrophages - special cells of the immune system that can destroy spermatozoa.
• Increases the viscosity of cervical mucus, which prevents sperm from getting into the uterus or into the fallopian tubes.
• Spirals containing copper and silver also have a spermatotoxic effect.
• IUDs containing hormones additionally inhibit ovulation and endometrial growth.

The Pearl Index - a coefficient showing the effectiveness of a contraceptive method for intrauterine devices is 0.2. That is, with the correct use of the IUD during the year, pregnancy occurred only in two cases out of a thousand.

According to this indicator, the spiral is the most effective method of contraception, surpassing even some contraceptive pills in its reliability.

Types and features

Currently, there are about 50 variants of the IUD, which differ in shape, size and materials. Therefore, they are usually classified by generation:

1. The first is inert IUDs. The most popular were spirals made of polymeric materials in the form of the Latin letter S. Today, due to side effects and low efficiency, this type is practically not used, and in some countries it is even prohibited.
2. The second generation - copper-containing products. The first representatives of this generation were produced with copper wire inserted into the structure. Their main disadvantage was the too rapid release of copper, due to which the coil had to be changed every 2–3 years. More modern IUDs come with an additional silver rod that slows down the release of copper and makes it last longer. The most popular of this series are the intrauterine device Nova T, Multiload Cu-250 and Cu-375, as well as Corre-T.
3. The third generation is spirals with hormones. The impetus for their creation was the desire to combine the advantages of the IUD and the contraceptive pill. Outwardly, they are a T-shaped structure, the leg of which is filled with the hormone levonorgestrel or progesterone. How does an intrauterine hormonal coil work? Almost the same as hormone pills. The device is designed in such a way that equal doses of the hormone enter the woman's body every day. The validity period of such products is 5 years, and the most popular of this generation are Mirena and Levonova.

The types of spirals are very diverse. Usually, women who think about using this means of protection have a natural question: hormonal or non-hormonal intrauterine device, which is better?

Only a gynecologist can solve this problem, after examining and receiving test results. Despite the fact that you can buy any IUD at a pharmacy and without a doctor's prescription, you should not make such a purchase on your own.

Advantages

Of course, the main advantage of modern intrauterine devices is that this tool is the most effective of all currently existing. However, a high percentage of reliability is not their only advantage. Their advantages include:

• Ease of use. The intrauterine device will work, depending on the type, from one year to five years, and you do not have to take daily pills or think about any other methods of contraception.
• Can be used immediately after childbirth and during breastfeeding.
• Easy reversibility of the method. After removing the spiral, the reproductive properties of the body are restored in just a few months.
• Even hormonal IUDs do not have such a strong effect on the female body as birth control pills, which means they have much fewer contraindications for use.
• Unlike a condom or a vaginal ring, they do not cause discomfort or reduce sensation.
• Given the long duration of action, even expensive products are more cost-effective to use than any other means to protect against pregnancy.

Flaws

Unfortunately, there are no ideal methods of contraception, and such a reliable method as the IUD has its drawbacks. The disadvantages of this method include:

• Increased risk of developing acute inflammatory diseases.
• Not a single contraceptive spiral protects against sexually transmitted diseases, so this method of protection is more suitable for established, permanent couples.
• In the first time after installation, menstruation, as a rule, is more painful and passes more abundantly and takes longer.
• Spontaneous loss of the spiral is possible, for example, during active sports or heavy lifting.

Perhaps the most serious disadvantage of using an IUD is an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy due to a violation of the contractile activity of the fallopian tubes and the uterus itself.

Application Rules

The intrauterine device does not apply to simple methods of protection against unplanned pregnancy. Its use will require you to follow several important rules. And the question of whether such a method of contraception is suitable for you should be decided only by a gynecologist after examination and testing. The type of spiral that suits you is also selected by the doctor. Usually, experts advise using this particular type of contraception if:

• A woman has increased fertility and unwanted pregnancies happen all too often.
• There are diseases in which pregnancy is contraindicated.
• The woman or her partner has genetic pathologies in which it is also impossible to become pregnant.

How is the Navy installed?

You can install a spiral regardless of the phase of the menstrual cycle, but still doctors advise doing this from the fourth to the eighth day, if you count from the first day of menstruation. Before the procedure, swabs for microflora, a general blood and urine test are taken, an ultrasound examination is performed to exclude pregnancy and determine the size of the uterus.

The procedure itself is quite simple and painless, so it is performed on an outpatient basis and without anesthesia. However, in the first days after installation, you may be disturbed by discomfort in the lower abdomen, aching or cramping pains, which normally disappear on their own.

A week later, a follow-up examination is mandatory, and during this week it is better for a woman to refrain from:

1. From intense physical activity.
2. Hot baths.
3. Taking laxatives.
4. Sex life.
5. Taking aspirin or medicines containing acetylsalicylic acid, as this can cause bleeding.

After each menstruation, you will need to independently check the presence of threads from the spiral, and follow-up examinations, in the absence of complaints, will need to take place every six months.

How is the IUD removed?

It is not necessary to wait the entire duration of the spiral. If you wish, you can ask the gynecologist to remove it at any time. In the absence of complications, removal, as well as installation, is not particularly difficult and is performed on an outpatient basis. It is enough for the doctor to simply pull the antennae. However, despite the simplicity of the procedure, it is not worth doing it yourself at home.

In rare cases, for example, when the antennae of the spiral break or penetrate the uterine wall, it can be removed using a hysteroscope. This device is a tube with special channels for scissors or forceps. In this case, the procedure can be carried out in a hospital.

Before removing the spiral, the gynecologist also prescribes an ultrasound scan to clarify its location in the uterine cavity. During removal or immediately after it, pain and bleeding may occur.

Contraindications

The IUD protection method is not suitable for everyone, although it works well in most cases. As with any contraceptive, the intrauterine device has its own contraindications. Conventionally, they can be divided into absolute and relative, when the final decision is made by the doctor after the necessary tests.

The first group includes:

• Acute or often aggravated inflammatory diseases of the female sphere.
• Suspicion of malignant tumors of the cervix or body of the uterus.
• Uterine bleeding, the cause of which is not clear.
• Suspicion of pregnancy.
• Pathological changes in the uterus that may interfere with the correct insertion or placement of the coil.
• Malformations of the cervix or the uterus itself.

The second group of contraindications include:

• Abundant, painful and prolonged, longer than six days, menstruation, or the presence of bleeding in the period between them.
• Endometriosis of the cervix and ovaries.
• Abnormal configuration of the uterus or too small.
• Myomatous nodes, strongly deforming the uterine cavity.
• Ectopic pregnancy in the past.
• Allergies to the components that make up the spiral, for example, to polymeric substances or to copper.
• Low hemoglobin levels, clotting disorders, or other blood disorders.

In some situations, with such relative contraindications as uterine fibroids, heavy and painful menstruation, or endometrial pathology, the appointment of hormonal IUDs is often, on the contrary, justified.

Side effects

Any intrauterine device is inherently a foreign body, and even a perfectly healthy body needs time to come to terms with its presence. Therefore, side effects and discomfort usually occur in the first days after installation.

Most often it is:

1. Aching or cramping pain in the lower abdomen, which, according to statistics, occurs in about 5-10% of patients.
2. More abundant than usual menstrual bleeding, which occurs in 24% of cases. Rarely, such bleeding can lead to the development of iron deficiency anemia.
3. Increased risk of inflammatory diseases in about 0.5-4% of cases.
4. Spontaneous prolapse of the intrauterine device, which occurs in 6-15% of cases.

If you have severe pain, unusual discharge, bleeding unrelated to menstruation and a fever, then you need to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Also, do not delay the visit in case of a missed period or other signs of pregnancy, such as morning sickness or pain and swelling of the mammary glands.

If you did not feel the threads of the spiral or, on the contrary, felt its plastic tip, then most likely the IUD has moved from its place and no longer performs its main function. In such a situation, you should also consult a doctor.