A widely used brand of IntraUterine Device (IUD) used to prevent pregnancy. It is a small 'T' shaped device placed inside the uterus. The copper in the arms of the device prevent
sperm from making their way in the fallopian tubes.
An IUD
may be over 99% effective for up to twelve years. IUD's are not without disadvantages, however. A small percentage of women are allergic to copper or
reject the IUD immediately, experiencing minor inflammation, cramping,
pain, and bleeding, and the IUD
may increase the severity of menstrual discomfort. IUD's do nothing to protect against sexually transmitted diseases, and must be inserted and removed by a medical professional. Also, some men can feel the removal strings during intercourse, causing discomfort. The initial cost of an IUD is
high, but after 2 years, is less than the same woman would have
spent on other forms of birth control.
