Decoding Contraception: IUD vs Birth Control Pill

An Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped, flexible device that is used to prevent pregnancy. 

On the contrary, birth control pills are a form of contraception that uses hormones to prevent pregnancy.

IUDs are a reliable long-term birth control method, lasting from three to ten years, depending on the type.

Birth control pills are an oral medication that is 99% effective in birth control when taken correctly. 

Both birth control pills and IUDs are highly effective in preventing pregnancy.

To learn more about IUDs and birth control pills and how you can use them to prevent your pregnancy, read this informative article on IUDs vs birth control pills. 

Overview

A quick overview of IUD vs birth control pills: 

Effectiveness of birth control

IUDs are considered an effective birth control method as they can show their effectiveness to 99%.

Hormonal IUDs start working within seven days of insertion, while copper IUDs work immediately after insertion. 

Birth control pills are also 99% effective at preventing pregnancy if used correctly. 

Effectiveness of these pills varies based on their nature or type you are consuming. 

The pills may be less effective when not taken regularly or used improperly. 

Research indicates that 80% of women using IUDs are satisfied, while only 54% of women using oral contraceptive pills express satisfaction with this form of birth control.

Types of IUDs vs birth control pills

There are two main types of IUDs hormonal and copper. Each type works differently to prevent pregnancy.

Hormonal IUDs

• Hormonal IUDs work by making cervical mucus thicker, blocking sperm from reaching the egg, and thinning the uterus lining
• It release Progestin, a synthetic version of the hormone Progesterone, to regulate the reproductive system and prevent pregnancy
• Some examples of hormonal IUDs are: Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena

Copper IUDs

• It operates by creating an unfavorable environment for sperm, effectively hindering their ability to fertilize an egg and thereby preventing pregnancy
• Copper IUDs do not contain hormones; they use copper to create an environment that hinders sperm, preventing fertilization and providing hormone-free contraception
• There are several examples of copper IUDs available, including paragard, T-shaped, frameless, and gynefix

Combination pills

• Combination pills prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterus lining
• These pills contain both Estrogen and Progestin, hormones that work together to prevent pregnancy by regulating the menstrual cycle and inhibiting ovulation

Progestin-only pills

• Progestin-only pills work by preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus, offering a straightforward yet effective method of contraception
• Progestin-only pills contain only Progestin

IUDs and birth control pills are both highly effective, with typical use resulting in less than a 1% failure rate in preventing pregnancy.

Side effects and risks

Both intrauterine devices (IUDs) and birth control pills are generally safe and effective forms of contraception. However, they can have some side effects and risks.

IUDs

• Cramps: Expect to have period-like cramps for the first few days after insertion. Mild cramping is normal, but if the pain becomes intense, call your doctor
• Irregular or heavy periods: Your periods may change after you get the device. Copper IUDs can make menstrual cramps worse and increase period bleeding, especially during the first several months after insertion
• Ectopic pregnancy: Getting pregnant while you have an IUD puts you at a slightly higher risk for an ectopic pregnancy
• Infection: There is a small risk of infection after IUD insertion
• Perforation: Rarely, the IUD can perforate the uterus during insertion

Birth control pills

• Nausea: Starting birth control pills might cause nausea in some individuals
• Headaches: Birth control pills can cause headaches
• Mood changes: Some people may experience mood changes, such as depression or anxiety when taking birth control pills
• Blood clots: These pills may elevate the risk of dangerous blood clots
• Vascular diseases: Birth control pills may heighten the risk of vascular diseases, like heart attack and stroke

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Duration

The duration of use for IUDs varies depending on the type and individual needs.

• Hormonal IUDs last 3-8 years, depending on the brand, while copper IUDs last up to 10 years
• Once inserted, an IUD can prevent pregnancy for over 10 years, depending on the type

On the contrary

• The duration of use for birth control pills varies depending on the type and individual needs
• Combination pills are typically taken every day of a 21- or 28-day menstrual cycle
• While Progestin-only pills can be taken every day as long as they are taken correctly

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between IUDs and birth control pills depends on individual preferences, lifestyle, and health considerations. 

IUDs, available in hormonal and copper types, offer long-term protection, lasting up to 10 years. 

On the other hand, birth control pills, available in combination and progestin-only forms, provide a daily option with 99% effectiveness when taken correctly.

However, their efficacy relies on consistent use and can be affected by factors like forgetting pills or specific medications.

Both methods are generally safe, but considerations such as side effects and duration of use should guide the decision-making process.

IUDs and birth control pills are highly effective, with a failure rate of less than 1% in preventing pregnancy with typical use.

Consultation with a doctor is crucial for personalized advice tailored to individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• plannedparenthood.org
• yalemedicine.org
• nichd.nih.gov