Although it still seems too far away, it is important that during your pregnancy you begin to think about your future sexual relations after childbirth. Your midwife or the doctor who is following your pregnancy will almost certainly have a conversation with you on this topic. It is essential that you receive all the necessary information so that when the time comes, you can safely resume your sexual life.
Today there are different types of contraceptive methods and this greatly facilitates the options for each woman, who can choose according to her preferences. But it is important to know that all contraceptive methods are not recommended after delivery, especially if you are going to feed your baby with Breastfeeding. For this reason, it is necessary that you inform yourself well and with enough time. TOyes you can be prepared for when the time comes.
One of the most effective and recommended contraceptives after childbirth is the IUD. We tell you what exactly does it consist of and why you should take it into account.
What is the IUD?
The IUD is a female contraceptive method, its acronym refers to its name, which is specifically the Intrauterine Device. It is a small piece of malleable plastic in the shape of a T, which goes into the uterus. This maneuver should be performed exclusively by a gynecologist or specialist doctor, since its misuse can cause negative consequences in women.
The Intrauterine Device works in the following way, once it is placed in the uterine cavity, the device produces a small inflammation. Thus, possible eggs that are fertilized will have less chance of staying in the uterus. In addition, the IUD is made up of a small copper wire that acts as a spermicide, since it releases ions inside the uterus.
If you decide to use the IUD for contraception, you should know that you will have to wait at least 6 weeks after giving birth to be able to insert it. This in case your delivery was natural. In the case of having to undergo a cesarean section, you will have to wait at least 2 or 3 months. The exact time will be set by your gynecologist, who will perform the necessary examinations to make sure the area is fully recovered.
Advantages and disadvantages
One of the greatest advantages of using the Intrauterine Device is that it is effective from the first moment. With other types of contraceptive methods, you have to wait a certain time to be able to count on the effectiveness of the product. In addition, the percentage of effectiveness is very high, since it offers a protection of approximately 98%.
Regarding the duration of the IUD, there are different models and each one has a duration time estimated according to the manufacturer. Generally, it usually lasts between 3 and 5 years, after that time, it is necessary to remove it and change it for a new device.
Moreover, the IUD is not without its drawbacks and it is also important to know them to take them into account. One of the main problems is that it can cause your periods to be more abundant and to be more durable. It can also cause you to suffer more severe period pains and abdominal cramps.
Also, the IUD is associated with the risk of ectopic pregnancy. For this reason it is not recommended for women who have experienced this situation or due to various infections in the genitals. It is also not recommended in women who have very heavy periods, who suffer from anemia or who have had cysts on the ovaries.
Medical reviews
It is very important which pay a visit to your gynecologist every 6 months. That way you can check that everything is correct. Your own doctor will inform you of all the doubts you may have in this regard. So you should not miss medical appointments.
If you think that this may be the perfect contraceptive method for you, once your pregnancy is over, do not hesitate to ask your midwife or gynecologist for information reference. The physicians will be able to resolve any questions that may arise, so you can make the appropriate decision based on your needs.