Birth control spiral: what are the advantages and disadvantages?
Although the contraceptive spiral is used by many women, we must note that it is not very well known and, moreover, there are many prejudices concerning it. Younger women, in fact, do not even think about it when it comes to choosing a contraceptive method and prefer to opt for another one. But what exactly is the IUD and how does it work? Before answering these and other questions, here is a video showing other useful contraceptive methods.
The contraceptive coil is a local contraceptive
The IUD is a small "T" shaped object that is inserted into the uterine cavity. Its purpose is to trigger a permanent inflammatory action in the mucosa so that it is unable to receive a fertilized egg. Basically it creates an environment where fertilization cannot take place.
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Different types of contraceptive spiral
- Copper spiral
Made of plastic with one or more copper wires and is 3.5 cm long. The larger the copper surface, the more effective it is: it triggers a sterile inflammatory response in the uterine cavity. It is this "reaction" to this foreign body that is toxic to gametes, and more specifically to sperm that do not reach the fallopian tubes. Double action therefore: an anti-nesting effect and an "upstream action on spermatozoa and eggs. There are several copper models with two sizes called" short "and" standard ", for those who wish to have one without first having had a son.
- Hormonal spiral
It is copper-free and continuously releases a progestin hormone, levonorgestrel, into the uterus for 5 years. Its mechanism combines the action of the contraceptive coil with progestin contraception, thickening the secretions of the cervix and making them impenetrable to spermatozoa.
It should be noted that these two spirals would have a "considerable effectiveness (98%), with the difference that hormonal spirals are often more expensive and less tolerated. This device should therefore be used especially if you are looking for a therapeutic effect, such as reducing the duration and volume of excessive menstrual bleeding Some women no longer menstruate during the 5 years of using the IUD, which is not dangerous for fertility.
Who is the contraceptive spiral actually intended for?
The issue is still being debated in the medical and gynecological community!
On the one hand, specialists who believe that the spiral should only be inserted in a woman who has already had a pregnancy (larger uterus) and others think that instead, it is also suitable for women who have never had a child. This question should therefore be asked to the gynecologist, who will judge the best choice to make with the patient.
Nonetheless, it should be noted that there are some clearly established contraindications, i.e. some medical history, uterine pathologies, unexplained vaginal bleeding, STI, sensitivity to one of the components, postpartum (between 48 hours and 4 weeks) or pregnancy.
The contraceptive spiral would be prohibited in case of venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, breast cancer, neurological migraine, hepatitis.
How to insert the spiral
Inserting the contraceptive coil is very simple and takes just a few minutes; however, everything must be done by a general practitioner or gynecologist, without anesthesia, in the first days of menstruation. Insertion is generally not painful, but to avoid pain you can take a pain reliever two hours before insertion.
As a precaution, doctors recommend performing hysterometry to determine the shape, depth and sensitivity of the uterus.
Also note that you should not hesitate to consult your doctor if the IUD threads are no longer felt, if they are shorter or longer than usual, or if the IUD can be felt with the fingertips. In all these cases, in fact, the contraceptive action would then be completely canceled.
The advantages of the contraceptive spiral
- Economical and reliable
And "as a matter of fact, having an IUD inserted for several years is a real saving, unlike the pill. Not to mention its practical effectiveness, since with a IUD there is neither time, nor forgetfulness, nor intake constraints. This allows for greater peace of mind.
- It does not affect fertility
As with the pill, you can take it out and stop it at any time. Another advantage: the spiral can be inserted one month after giving birth, while it is necessary to wait for the return of the menstrual cycle for hormonal contraception.
- It is not a health hazard
It has been established that there is no risk of cardiovascular or carcinogenic accidents, which cannot be ruled out entirely with the pill.
- There is no risk of infection
The risk of pelvic inflammatory disease is usually limited to three weeks after IUD insertion, provided the woman is not having intercourse.
- There will be no ectopic pregnancies
They would even be 10 times lower than those without contraception.
- It is a good emergency contraception
After unprotected sexual intercourse, the copper contained in the IUD can be a useful solution to avoid unwanted pregnancies, as long as it is not inserted more than 5 days after ovulation.
Contraceptive spiral: the disadvantages
As with all contraceptive methods existing to date, there are still some disadvantages to the use of the IUD that can be experienced more or less well from one woman to another.
The lengthening of menstruation is visible in the case of copper spirals. And of course, like progestogen-based contraceptives, there can be repeated bleeding, missed menstruation, weight gain, or acne. All spirals, whether copper or hormonal, should not cause particular concern.
In case of contraindications, follow-up is required every two to three months, and then every six months thereafter.
You should know that although the IUD is very effective as a contraceptive, it does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases in any case. It is therefore necessary to wear a condom!
