Intrauterine DeviceThe letters IUD stand for "intrauterine device". IUDs are small, T-shaped devices made of flexible plastic. A healthcare provider inserts an IUD into a woman's uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUDs available: ParaGard and hormonal Mirena. The ParaGard IUD contains copper and is effective for 12 years. The hormonal IUD releases a small amount of progestin. There are two brands. Mirena is effective for five years. Skyla is slightly smaller and effective for three years. Both the copper and hormonal IUD work primarily by influencing the way sperm move so that they cannot unite with an egg. If the sperm cannot join the egg, pregnancy cannot occur. For some women, hormonal IUDs can prevent the egg from leaving the ovary. Progestin also prevents pregnancy by thickening a woman's cervical mucus. The mucus blocks the sperm and prevents it from joining the egg. Efficacy is an important and common concern when choosing a contraceptive method. IUDs are one of the most effective forms of birth control available. Please note that the IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Use a condom with the IUD to reduce the risk of infection. Most women can use an IUD safely. There are many other birth control methods that may be safe for you if you cannot use an IUD. You should not use an IUD if you have had a pelvic infection following childbirth or an abortion within the last three months, have or may have a sexually transmitted infection or other pelvic infection, think you may be pregnant, have cervical cancer that had I have not been treated, I have uterine cancer, I have unexplained vaginal bleeding, I have pelvic tuberculosis, I have a uterine perforation during the insertion of the IUD. A health... half of the document... a contraceptive method such as condoms. Between menstrual cycles, if you want, you can check the ends of the laces, but don't pull them. Pulling on the threads could cause the IUD to move or even come out. You need to see a doctor to get an IUD. Your doctor can help you decide whether an IUD is right for you. You can find a health care provider who can help you get an IUD at your local health center or other clinics. The IUD is the cheapest, most reversible long-term form of birth control you can get. Unlike other forms of birth control, the IUD only costs money at the beginning. The cost for the medical exam, IUD, IUD insertion, and follow-up visits to your doctor can range from $500 to $1,000. This cost pays for the protection which can last from 5 to 12 years, depending on the IUD chosen