INTRAUTERINE DEVICE INSERTION
Calgary IUD Clinic
What Is An IUD?
An intrauterine device (IUD) can be a good option for many women, particularly those who are breast-feeding, or who cannot use estrogen-based methods because of cigarette smoking, migraine headaches, or hypertension. The IUD is a low-maintenance and reversible method of contraception. It works mainly by preventing the sperm from fertilizing the egg. It can stay in place for 3-5 years, depending on the IUD. There are two types of IUDs available in Canada (Copper and Hormonal). Contact our Calgary IUD Clinic for more information.
A COMPARISON
INFO & FACTS
Flexi-T / Liberte
Copper IUD-
$~80 Available at your local pharmacy
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0% Levonorgestrel
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99.2% - 99.4% Effective
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1 in 100 get pregnant
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Does not contain estrogen
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In some cases decreases the risk of getting endometrial cancer
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May increase menstrual bleeding & cramping by 10% - 20%
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Effective contraception up to 7 days after unprotected sex
Mirena©
Hormonal IUS-
$~370 Available at your local pharmacy
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52mg Levonorgestrel
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99.9% Effective
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2 in 1000 get pregnant
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Does not contain estrogen
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May decrease endometriosis and precancerous cells
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Decreases menstrual bleeding, sometimes stopping completely
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Not effective emergency contraception
Kyleena©
Hormonal IUS-
$~350 Available at your local pharmacy
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19.5mg Levonorgestrel
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99.5% Effective
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2 in 1000 get pregnant
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Does not contain estrogen
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May decrease endometriosis and precancerous cells
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Decreases menstrual bleeding, sometimes stopping completely
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Not effective emergency contraception
Jaydess©
Hormonal IUS-
$~350 Available at your local pharmacy
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13.5mg Levonorgestrel
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99.5% Effective
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2 in 1000 get pregnant
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Does not contain estrogen
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May decrease endometriosis and precancerous cells
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Decreases menstrual bleeding, sometimes stopping completely
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Not effective emergency contraception
IU DEVICES
MORE INFO
Is Our IUD Clinic Right For You?
If you’re not sure which IUD to choose, or whether you should even consider an IUD, you’re not alone. The physicians at our Calgary IUD Clinic will help provide you with the information you need to guide you, as well as assist you in gaining confidence in your contraceptive (birth control) decisions.
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada (SOGC), as well as the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG), recommend IUDs as the first-line contraceptive choice for preventing pregnancy.
IUDs are quite simply, the most effective non-permanent method of birth control. Getting pregnant unexpectedly or at the wrong time in a woman’s life can be quite traumatic. Taking the big step towards effective contraception can allow you to focus on your personal and occupational goals, without any major surprises.
The IUD placement is a fairly straightforward procedure. First, a speculum is used to see the cervix in the same way that a pap smear is performed. During the procedure, most women feel a pinch and then some cramping which can last a few minutes. Once placed, the IUD strings are then cut leaving about 3-4 cm to hang outside the cervix. The appointment and procedure will take about 30 minutes.
How Effective Are IUDs?
IUDs are the buzz right now, and for several good reasons.
- They are the most effective (>99%) of all the reversible contraceptive options available in Canada. Only permanent contraception (vasectomy, tubal ligation) is as effective.
- They are reversible. Once pulled, a woman’s fertility will resume immediately, though we counsel women to wait for their next cycle before attempting to conceive.
- They are forgettable. The pill, patch, ring, or injection methods rely on a woman’s memory. Forgetting to take/use the medication as prescribed can significantly reduce their effectiveness.
- They are long-acting. IUDs are effective for 3-5 years
- They are estrogen-free. Some women have medical conditions that prevent them from using estrogen-based treatments. IUDs are safe in these women.
If you need more information or would like to book an appointment, our staff would be happy to guide you. Our IUD clinic is associated with RAICE (Rapid Access IUD Centres of Excellence) and can see patients without a referral.
Have Any Questions or Concerns?