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What is intrauterine contraception?

 
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 08.07.2025
 
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Intrauterine contraception is a method of prolonged and reversible contraception using special devices inserted into the uterus.

In our country, the use of various IUDs is more popular than other modern contraceptives. According to the data of the report on the state of health of the population, IUDs are used by up to 18% of women of fertile age in the regions.

Intrauterine devices are highly effective, do not have a systemic effect on the body, are easy to use, are accessible to all social groups, and are cost-effective. In addition, they can be used for a long time and continuously. Fertility is restored after their removal on average after 3-6 months.

Types of intrauterine contraceptives

Existing and currently used intrauterine devices can be divided into two large groups.

Inert intrauterine devices. Intrauterine devices made of inert materials have been used since the late 1950s. The most widely used intrauterine devices in our country are, for example, the Lippes loop, created by Jack Lippes in 1962.

Since 1989, according to WHO recommendations, the use of inert intrauterine devices is not recommended due to their low efficiency and high frequency of complications during their introduction and use.

Medicinal intrauterine devices. The introduction of copper additives into the intrauterine device has significantly increased the effectiveness and reduced the incidence of possible complications during their use, since copper ions have a spermatocillin and bactericidal effect.

A medicated intrauterine device can be inserted on any day of the menstrual cycle if you are sure that you are not pregnant. Medicated intrauterine devices are distributed in packages containing all the necessary devices for their insertion.

The recommended period of use of metal-containing intrauterine devices should not exceed 3-5 years.

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