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Sex with IUD: 5 facts you must know

If you have an intrauterine device inserted in your uterus for birth control, you may wonder about the side effects of sex with IUD. A doctor clears 5 common myths.
IUD side effects
Are there any IUD side effects? Come, find out. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Dr Sushma Tomar Published: 28 Nov 2022, 13:10 pm IST
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Many people choose contraception for numerous reasons, although the primary goal of birth control is the same. Controlling pregnancy allows couples to determine the number and timing of their pregnancies. There are many forms of birth control, and one of the most popular ones for women is IUD, also called an Intrauterine Contraceptive Device. In its most basic form, it is essentially a small, T-shaped piece of copper or plastic that is generally inserted into the uterus of the woman. While they were pretty uncommon in the past, they are quite popular, especially among young females today, which is why many myths are associated with the device.

5 myths about sex with IUD

Here are some myths and facts around IUD, so that women can make a conscious and informed choice about their health, reproductive health and contraception methods.

Myth 1: You can insert IUD at any time to prevent pregnancy

Fact: Two types of IUDs are available in medical stores. The first is a copper IUD, and the other is a hormonal IUD (sold as Mirena™). Although both are pretty effective, it is better to consult a gynaecologist to decide the best one, depending on your specific menstruation cycle and fertility history. It is essential to know that hormonal IUDs can cause changes in the menstrual cycle, which is why many women believe they are pregnant.

In a normal situation, an IUD is inserted within the seventh or tenth day of the menstrual cycle before ovulation begins. Inserting it during this period ensures that if the woman has sex after ovulation, the sperm does not fertilize the egg. If the IUD is inserted later after ovulation, it is best to use a condom to ensure safe sex.

Myth 2: IUD is dangerous and it can cause infections, including infertility

Fact: This is false, and many studies have disproven this myth, including the one conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO). There is no proof to conclusively prove that women who use IUDs are at a greater risk of pelvic infections or infertility than women who use other forms of protection. On a side note, if you have multiple partners, it is best to get tested for STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) to reduce the chances of infection.

Also read: IUDs can sure help you avoid unwanted pregnancy, but have got their own downside too

IUD for birth control
IUD has gained prominence as a birth control method. Image courtesy: Shutterstcok

Myth 3: My partner will get hurt during sex due to the IUD

Fact: If your IUD has been inserted correctly, there is no way your partner will get hurt because of it during sexual intercourse. If your partner is hurt, it can be because the thread of the IUD is too long or has come out of the vagina. To rectify this, it is best to consult a gynaecologist. More importantly, always keep your vaginal area clean, especially after intercourse. If you have an IUD inserted in your body, it is essential to visit a gynaecologist every four months so that they can ensure that the device has not failed or can cause any complications.

Myth 4: IUD can cause infertility or miscarriage at a later stage

Fact: On its own, IUD does not cause infertility. But sometimes if a woman develops Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) and is not treated timely, it can cause fertility issues. Since PID can damage the lining of the fallopian tubes, it needs to be treated on time by a specialized expert. However, this issue is not related to IUDs, which women can safely use as a birth control mechanism. Additionally, if an IUD is adequately inserted and removed, it will not cause any issues in future pregnancies.

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Also read: Here’s how different contraception methods can affect your periods

IUD can be painful
IUD can be painful. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Myth 5: Getting IUD is more painful than childbirth

Fact: Everyone has a different tolerance to pain, and the IUD insertion process is not as painful as many make it out to be. It is more like period cramps, and tackling the pain is possible with so many pain management techniques available.

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About the Author

Dr Sushma Tomar, Consultant - Obstetrician & Gynecologist Fortis Hospital, Kalyan, Mumbai. She passed her M.B.B.S. and M.S. in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 1986 from Maharani Laxmibai Medical College, Jhansi. She worked as head of the dept in Century Rayon Hospital for three years. She joined as an honorary consultant at Ordinance hospital Ambernath. She was a consultant at Seva Niketan hospital in Ulhasnagar and Acharya hospital in Kalyan.She did her diploma in Advanced Endoscopic surgery from Germany, Kiel medical College and Giesen Medical College in 2005.She has done many free camps for ladies' cancer detection, osteoporosis, infertility and have a special interest in endoscopy and infertility. ...Read More

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