A IUD is a small T-shaped plastic device that is inserted into the uterus as birth control to prevent unwanted pregnancies. IUDs are usually a fairly simple form of reversible birth control, as well as easy to remove. IUDs are mostly the most convenient forms of long-term birth control available. As a reminder, IUDs do not protect against HIV or sexually transmitted diseases. You should always use a condom and have the screed applied regularly to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. There are several types of contraceptive options for women, but an IUD is one of the most used currently as it does not. It doesn't involve remembering to take a pill every day, replacing patches, or any other additional things they have lying around. There are a couple different types of IUD, one that releases hormones called Mirena or Skyla, and there is a non-hormonal one that contains a small amount of copper called ParaGard. Each of these IUDs has its own different side effects, benefits, and all the different risks associated with any birth control. ParaGard is a birth control that can be used for up to ten years, usually after you start taking birth control, you should use a condom for seven days, but with this specific IUD it starts working immediately after being inserted. The advantages of ParaGard are that it will not change your hormone levels and it is reversible, meaning that if you want to get pregnant, you can do so quickly after the IUD is removed. Side effects may include increased cramps, heavier bleeding during periods, back pain, spotting, anemia, vaginitis, pain during sexual intercourse, and vaginal discharge. For this particular IUD you should make sure that you do not have a sensitivity to copper. The Mirena is at...... middle of paper......): Find out information about side effects. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.emedicinehealth.com/birth_control_intrauterine_devices_iuds/article_em.htmIntrauterine Device Insertion and Removal - American Family Physician. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.aafp.org/afp/2005/0101/p95.html Birth control and intrauterine device (IUD) side effects. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/intrauterine-device-iud-for-birth-controlMirena (hormonal IUD) Risks - Tests and Procedures - Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mirena/basics/risks/prc-20012867 Types of IUD | Maybe the IUD. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://maybetheiud.org/types-of-iuds/What are the types of intrauterine devices (IUDs)? - IUD birth control: facts about risks and benefits. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.medicinenet.com/iud/page2.htm