Hormonal IUD - meaning and definition
AlsoIUSLNG-IUDhormonal coilintrauterine systemlevonorgestrel IUDMirenaKyleenaJaydessIUS coil
Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
A hormonal IUD is a small T-shaped device placed in the uterus that releases a progestogen and prevents pregnancy for three to eight years depending on the type.
At a glance
- It is a small T-shaped device placed in the uterus that releases a progestogen.
- It lasts three to eight years depending on the type.
- It is more than 99% effective.
- Many users find their periods become much lighter or stop.
- It can be removed at any time, and fertility returns quickly.
In detail
It works mainly by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the lining of the uterus. A clinician fits it in a short procedure, and it can be removed whenever the user wants, with fertility returning quickly.
It is more than 99% effective. Many users find their periods become much lighter or stop, which is why some types are also prescribed for heavy periods. Irregular bleeding is common in the first months, and fitting can be uncomfortable, so pain relief options are worth discussing beforehand.
In a sentence
- My hormonal IUD has made my periods so much lighter.
- I asked about pain relief options before my hormonal IUD was fitted.
Where the word comes from
IUD stands for intrauterine device, meaning a device placed within the uterus. Hormonal versions are also called IUS, intrauterine system, in some countries.
Not to be confused with
- Copper IUD
The copper IUD contains no hormones and can make periods heavier for some people.
Common questions
What is the difference between a hormonal IUD and a copper IUD?
A hormonal IUD releases a progestogen and often makes periods lighter, while a copper IUD contains no hormones and may make periods heavier, especially at first. Both are more than 99% effective.
Does having an IUD fitted hurt?
Fitting can be uncomfortable, so pain relief options are worth discussing with the clinician beforehand. Irregular bleeding is also common in the first months.