IUDs

How it works:

• The copper makes it difficult for sperm cells to move.
• The lining becomes less receptive to a fertilized egg.

Advantages:

• Completely hormone-free
• Can remain in place for up to 5 years (often longer if inserted at age 44-45)

Disadvantages:

• Increases menstrual bleeding by 25-50%
• Can cause more menstrual pain -> Best suited for women who already have little bleeding and little pain.

A copper IUD intended to cause less increase in bleeding

Difficult to access; few gynecologists offer insertion. We at Dybwadsgynekologene do not insert it.

Duration: 5 years

Contains a progesterone-like hormone in a very low dose (much lower than birth control pills).

How it works:

• Makes the uterine lining thin -> difficult for an egg to attach
• Makes the environment unfavorable for sperm cells
• Causes less bleeding

Common side effects (especially during the first 3 months):

• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Mood swings
• Frequent spotting (can last 3-5 months)
• 1-4% have persistent spotting
• Some experience reduced sexual desire
• Still, the hormonal IUD is the contraceptive method with the highest number of satisfied users.

Mirena (highest dose) - lasts 8 years

Approx. 30% do not bleed at all

The rest bleed little and sporadically

Blocks ovulation in 70-80% during the first 2-3 years

Best for heavy and painful menstruation

Can be slightly large for women who have not given birth (10-15% experience discomfort)

Kyleena (medium dose) - lasts 5 years

Approx. 25% have no bleeding

Most bleed little and sporadically

Affects ovulation in approx. 10% (only during the first year)

Lower risk of cysts

Smaller in size -> well suited for women who have not given birth

Jaydess (lowest dose) - lasts 3 years

Approx. 16% have no bleeding

Does not affect ovulation

Same size as Kyleena

Lasts shorter than Kyleena -> Kyleena is therefore recommended more often.

Best time: day 5-7 of menstruation

Less discomfort

Certainty that you are not pregnant

Lower risk of spotting over time

A copper IUD costs NOK 800 here, and hormonal IUDs cost NOK 1800. A prescription can be sent electronically if you already know which one you would like to try. You can buy a copper IUD without a prescription at the pharmacy.

Practical:

• If you are not already using another form of hormonal contraception, send an SMS, email, or call on the first day of your period.
• It may take a few cycles before you get an insertion appointment

Take painkillers before insertion:

• 1 Ibux 400 mg + 2 Paracet 500 mg
• Eat a little after Ibux

All IUDs are very reliable contraceptive methods. If you suspect pregnancy, take a pregnancy test.