For mothers considering an IUD, it’s crucial to know what to avoid when using it. This ensures the device remains safe and effective in preventing pregnancy.IUD stands for intrauterine device . This contraceptive is shaped like the letter ‘T’. It is inserted inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy by preventing sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), IUDs are a safe contraceptive method and have a high level of effectiveness when used correctly.
7 Things to Avoid When Using an IUD
According to WebMD, Traci C. Johnson, an obstetrician and gynecologist in Snellville, Georgia, said that women can resume normal daily activities after having an IUD inserted.
However, there are some things you should avoid, such as inserting anything into the vagina, including tampons or menstrual cups.
Or refrain from sexual intercourse for at least 24 hours after the procedure. It’s also best to avoid bathing and swimming.
Not only that, mothers also need to avoid several things when using an IUD, which are summarized from various sources:
1. Never had a check-up after having an IUD installed
Mothers should not miss scheduled checkups with their doctor after IUD insertion. This is crucial to ensure the IUD remains properly positioned and hasn’t shifted. Doctors usually recommend follow-ups several weeks after insertion.
According to the Mayo Clinic , regular checkups help ensure the IUD continues to work optimally.
2. Ignoring pain or excessive bleeding
Mild cramping and spotting are quite common after IUD insertion. However, if the pain is severe or the bleeding is very heavy, don’t ignore the condition.
Mothers can consult a doctor if:
- The pain is getting worse
- Fever
- Smelly vaginal discharge
- Prolonged heavy bleeding
The above symptoms could be a sign of infection or a problem with the position of the IUD.
3. Pulling the IUD thread carelessly
The IUD has tiny threads in the cervix to aid in inspection and removal. However, mothers are advised not to pull on these threads themselves, as this can cause the IUD to shift or become dislodged.
If you feel the length of the thread has changed or you don’t feel its presence, you should check with your doctor.
4. Not maintaining intimate area cleanliness
It’s important for mothers to maintain intimate hygiene while using an IUD. Avoid excessive use of feminine hygiene products or douching. These products can disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the vagina.
5. Delaying examination when signs of infection appear
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), untreated pelvic infections can affect reproductive health. Some signs of infection to watch out for include:
- Severe pelvic pain
- Fever
- Vaginal discharge with a strong odor
- Pain during intercourse
Do not delay medical examination if you experience the above symptoms.
6. Using an IUD without consulting certain health conditions
IUDs are not suitable for everyone. You should consult with your doctor first if you have:
- History of pelvic infection
- Cervical cancer
- Vaginal bleeding without an obvious cause
- Certain uterine disorders
The doctor will help determine whether IUD use is safe according to each individual’s health condition.
7. Thinking that IUDs protect against sexually transmitted infections
IUDs are effective in preventing pregnancy, but they don’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Therefore, couples still need condoms if there’s a risk of STI transmission.
The right way to use an IUD safely
Mothers can do several things below to ensure that using an IUD remains safe and comfortable.
- Routine check-ups according to the doctor’s schedule
- Maintaining intimate area cleanliness
- Check the IUD strings regularly as recommended by your doctor.
- Immediately check yourself if you experience unusual complaints.
- Use condoms when needed to prevent STIs
Side effects of using an IUD
Before deciding to have an IUD inserted, you should be aware of the potential side effects and risks, including known side effects of specific brands.
In fact, the side effects of IUDs can vary from woman to woman, depending on the type and condition of each woman’s body.
However, according to Medical News Today , the most common side effects of IUDs include the following:
- Irregular bleeding for several months
- Changes in menstrual patterns. For example, lighter, shorter periods, or even no periods at all.
- Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) include headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, and skin blemishes.
- Stomach cramps
These side effects generally improve after the first few months of use.
Advantages of using an IUD
Many women prefer the IUD, or what is often called the spiral, as a contraceptive because it has its own advantages.
Here are some of the advantages of using an IUD.
- More than 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy.
- Long lasting, namely with a duration of 5 years and even up to 10 years.
- Safe for use by breastfeeding mothers.
- After insertion, you don’t need to do anything other than check the threads every month after your period to make sure they haven’t shifted and are still in the correct position.
- The IUD can be removed at any time by trained medical personnel.
- The chance of getting pregnant returns to normal after removing the IUD contraceptive.
- The IUD is an effective option for women who do not want to use hormonal contraception, as quoted from the Betterhealth page.
By knowing what to avoid when using an IUD, you can use this contraceptive more safely and comfortably to help prevent pregnancy.
