IUD Seeing a Rebirth Among Women In Berwyn and Cicero

(Jan. 26, 2009) After years of being off the market, the intrauterine device, or IUD, seems to be enjoying a rebirth by a new generation of women in Berwyn and Cicero, Illinois.

One of the main changes made over the past twenty years is how effective the IUD is as a method of birth control. In the past, the IUD was inert, such as a plastic or metal device, but now the IUD, such as the Mirena, is more effective with the addition of the hormone progestin, similar to that used in the birth control pill.

Nevertheless, possible health risks involved are pelvic inflammatory disease, allergic reactions, infections, changes in vision, chills, dizziness, lack of or prolonged menstruation, and other side effects. (In fact, controversy within the medical community and among users spurred lawsuits and FDA action with regard to the IUD of the 1970s and 80s, experts say.)

Two IUDs besides the Mirena are available in the United States — the Copper-T 380A, also known as the ParaGard, and Progestasert. It's necessary to schedule a follow-up visit to your doctor after the IUD has been inserted.

WomanCare Services in Berwyn, which also serves women in North Riverside, Forest Park, Oak Park, Lyons, Westchester, La Grange, Stickney, Illinois, and other communities, has seen an increase in the number of women showing interest in the IUD as a form of birth control. Before making a decision whether to use the IUD, make sure that you get all the information about the possible health risks associated with it before deciding if it's the right option for you. To make an appointment for a free consultation, call WomanCare Services today at 708-795-6000.

Resources

"How IUDs Got a Bad Name," Yahoo Health
Risks noted in Mirena Physician's Information, FDA Medwatch (PDF)
"Mirena Side Effects," Drugs.com
"Infection and the IUD," Medical Digest

Abortion and Birth Control News is a project of TreeFrogClick, Inc. President, Kevin J. Banet