Intrauterine Devices in Las Vegas, NV

Would you like to learn more about intrauterine devices as a method of birth control? We would be happy to discuss the differences between each type of intrauterine contraceptive for you (along with the pros and cons of each) at Essential Women's Health Associates. When you come to our facility for a contraception counseling appointment, we will ask relevant questions about your health, family health history, and more to discern what type of IUD would work best for you: a hormone-free or a hormone-releasing IUD. Before the placement of an IUD, you will want to have an annual well-woman checkup and be tested for pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases to safeguard your health. The IUD can be placed rather quickly in our minor treatment room at either Las Vegas or Henderson, NV office. We have two offices in Greater Las Vegas and Henderson, NV area ready to take your phone call or online request for an appointment.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are placed into the uterus by one of our OBGYNs at Essential Women's Health Associates. There are two types of IUDs available: 

Hormone-releasing IUDs
If you can tolerate hormones being released from an IUD, you may consider a levonorgestrel-releasing IUD, like Kyleena or Skyla. The hormones impede your ability to ovulate and thicken the mucous lining of the cervix during each cycle. It can work for up to seven years. The plastic IUD protects you from getting pregnant by making the uterine lining so thick that it becomes a barrier for sperm.

The hormones stop ovulation just like birth control pills. Since you would not ovulate with this type of IUD, there would be no egg to fertilize. Hormone-releasing IUDs may work up to 3 – 7 years. If you decide you would like to try to get pregnant before the IUD wears off, then we can also safely remove it in our office.

Hormone-free IUDs
Many women cannot handle the flood of hormones an IUD can cause within the reproductive system. This is why a hormone-free alternative was designed for intrauterine device placement. One of the more popular hormone-free IUDs is called Paragard. It is made of a thin sheet of copper wrapped around a T-shaped piece of plastic. Menstrual periods will stay the same as you will continue to ovulate. It stops an egg from being fertilized by blocking sperm. This type of IUD is also safe and reversible. However, you may have heavy periods and stronger cramps with this IUD in place.

Put in by one of our board-certified or board-eligible OBGYNs, your IUD insertion appointment takes very little time to perform. You will be taken into a minor treatment room where we will ask you to dress in a paper gown and lie on an examination table in stirrups. Your OBGYN will gently insert a speculum into your vagina and open it up so the cervix can be viewed. The IUD will then be placed into your uterus. It will make no difference where you are in your menstrual cycle when it comes to placing an IUD, which means it can also be placed right after childbirth if requested.

An IUD only protects you against pregnancy, and nothing else. We advise you to still use a protective barrier method if you are unsure about the status of your partner's sexually transmitted diseases, HPV, or HIV status. 

How effective are IUDs in preventing pregnancy?
Intrauterine devices are one of the most effective forms of birth control available, boasting a success rate of over 99%. Once inserted by a healthcare provider at our practice, an IUD starts working almost immediately and can remain effective for several years, depending on the type.

Are there any side effects associated with IUDs?
Yes, side effects can occur but they usually subside within a few months. Some common side effects include spotting, irregular periods, and cramping. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, consult your healthcare provider at Essential Women's Health Associates for a thorough evaluation.

How complicated is the insertion and removal process?
IUD insertion and removal are relatively straightforward procedures carried out in Las Vegas, NV. Insertion usually takes just a few minutes and usually causes some discomfort or cramping. Removal is also quick and is generally less painful than the insertion. Please discuss concerns with pain levels with your provider to establish an appropriate pain management plan.

Your chosen form of contraception has to be right for you and something that works within your lifestyle. An intrauterine device can give you the freedom to go on about your life without interruption — with hormonal or with copper devices. Contact our office to see one of our experienced practitioners at Essential Women's Health Associates in our Las Vegas or Henderson, NV facilities for a consultation.