Hormonal IUDs

What is a hormonal IUD?

There are two types of hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) available in Australia. They are small plastic T-shaped devices with a hormone called levonorgestrel in their stem. It’s placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy. A fine nylon thread is attached to the IUD – the thread comes out through the cervix into the top end of the vagina. Both types of hormonal IUD last for up to eight years.

How do they work?

At Intuition Private, one of our friendly doctors will place the IUD inside the uterus. The hormonal IUD: stops sperm from fertilising the egg
makes the mucus in the cervix thicker so that sperm can’t get into the uterus changes the wall of the uterus, making it hard for an egg to attach to the wall sometimes stops your ovaries from releasing an egg.

How well does it work?

Both types of hormonal IUD are very effective. One hormonal IUD is 99.9% effective and the other IUD is 99.7% effective*.

Who can use a hormonal IUD?

A hormonal IUD is an option for people who:

• want a reliable, long-term contraceptive
• haven’t had a pregnancy
• have decided to not have any more children
• would like to space out their pregnancies
• are breastfeeding
• both types can be used people with heavy periods, but one brand in particular is proven to be very effective at reducing bleeding during your period. Please speak to our doctors about this concern, if you have it.

You should not use the hormonal IUD if:

• you might be pregnant
• you have a recent infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• you have unusual bleeding from your vagina
• you have a history of breast cancer or some serious liver conditions
• Talk to your doctor before deciding to use a hormonal IUD if you have:
• a recent sexually transmitted infection (STI)
• fibroids or other conditions that change the shape of your uterus
• previous problems with an IUD (for instance the IUD has come out by itself)
• you are unable to have a follow-up check-up after the IUD is put in

Advantages

• It’s very effective
  It protects you against pregnancy for up to 8 years
• The initial cost of a hormonal IUD can be more than for other methods, but it lasts for 8 years
• Your fertility goes back to normal once the IUD is taken out
• Both types usually makes bleeding much lighter and sometimes periods stop all together
• It can reduce period pain

Disadvantages

• It doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• It requires a procedure to be put in and removed from the uterus; putting it in can be uncomfortable or painful for some people. At Intuition Private, we have the optional extra of administering a sedative via inhalation for those wanting extra comfort. Ask us about the pricing of this option when you book the procedure.
• When the IUD is put in there is a small chance of:
• difficulty inserting the IUD
• damage to the wall of the uterus
• infection
• it can sometimes come out by itself
• You can have some irregular bleeding or spotting in the first few months
• You can get hormonal side effects like:
• bloating
• headaches
• mood changes
• acne
• lowered interest in sex

How do I get a hormonal IUD?

Only a specially trained doctor or nurse can put in an IUD. You may need to make two visits, we normally like to see our patients six weeks after the insertion for what is called a “string check” to make sure the IUD is in the right location. A few things to consider about your IUD insertion include:

• the doctor will ask questions about your health
• you might have a vaginal examination, a cervical screening test or a test for infection
• you will be given a prescription for the hormonal IUD, although we can also fill the script in our clinic and do the procedure on the same day. Additional costs apply.
• you need to get the hormonal IUD from a pharmacy before your next visit (if you want to come back for a second consult).
• putting the IUD in takes about 10 minutes – although you will be at the clinic for about one hour
• you may find having the IUD put in a bit uncomfortable or painful. (Again, we have an inhaled sedative available as an option for those that want extra comfort).
• After your hormonal IUD is put in:
• you may have cramps and bleeding or spotting in the first few days. You can take paracetamol or ibuprofen or use a heat pack. See your doctor if cramps, spotting or pain last more than a few days
• avoid sex, tampons, swimming and baths for two days to reduce the risk of infection
• go back for a check-up if you have any concerns
• Remember, it is normal to have irregular bleeding and spotting in the first few months after the hormonal IUD is put in. Bleeding usually settles down and periods become shorter and lighter and may stop altogether.

Things to remember with your hormonal IUD:

• see your doctor straight away if you have any unusual symptoms such as:
• discharge from your vagina
• pain low in your tummy
• deep pain during sex
• protect yourself from STIs by using a condom at the same time
• keep a record of the date to take out your IUD – it shouldn’t stay in for longer than the recommended time

How is it taken out?

The hormonal IUD can stay in for eight years but it can be taken out sooner. Your doctor at Intuition Private can take it out. The doctor will remove the IUD by gently pulling on the string. This only takes a couple of minutes. Some people find it uncomfortable and some do not feel much at all. If you want another hormonal IUD, the old one can be taken out and a new one put in at the same visit.

If you are interested in speaking to one of our doctors about a hormonal IUD, book today!

Information provided by Family Planning Australia.

*As per TGA Guidelines, we are not able to give specific information regarding brands of prescription products. This information will be provided during your consult and has been screened from this information to comply with TGA legislation.