Category

• Contraceptive, intrauterine-local

Description

A progesterone intrauterine device (proe-JES-ter-one IN-tra-YOU-ta-rin de-VICE) (also called an IUD) is inserted by a health care professional into a woman's uterus as a contraceptive (birth control method).

The progesterone IUD works by causing changes in the uterus that help to prevent pregnancy. The fertilization of the woman's egg with her partner's sperm is less likely with an IUD in place, but it can occur. Even so, the IUD makes it harder for the fertilized egg to become attached to the uterus walls, making it hard to become pregnant. The hormone, progesterone, released from the IUD is believed to improve the effects of the device. After the IUD is removed, most women trying to become pregnant can become pregnant.

Studies have shown that pregnancy can occur in up to 2 of each 100 women using a progesterone IUD during the first year of use . Other birth control methods such as not having intercourse, taking birth control pills (the Pill), or having surgery to become sterile are as effective or more effective. Methods that do not work as well include using condoms, diaphragms, vaginal sponges, or spermicides. Discuss with your health care professional what your options are for birth control and the risks and benefits of each method.

IUDs do not protect a woman from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) . The use of latex (rubber) condoms or abstinence (not having intercourse) is recommended for protection from these diseases.

Your lifestyle will determine how safe and reliable the progesterone IUD will be for you . Problems that may occur with use of an IUD are far less likely to occur in women who have a long-term relationship with one sexual partner. Also, it is important that your sexual partner not have any other sexual partners. If you or your partner has more than one sexual partner it increases your chance of getting an infection in the vagina. If an infection is present in the vagina or uterus when the IUD is in the uterus it may make an infection more serious. If your lifestyle changes while you are using an IUD or you get or are exposed to a sexually transmitted disease, call your health care professional .

Progesterone IUDs are available only from your doctor or other authorized health care professional in the following form:

Intrauterine
• Progesterone Intrauterine Device (U.S.)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S.—

• Progestasert

† Not commercially available in Canada.