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Intrauterine device


Intrauterine device

The intrauterine device (IUD) shown uses copper as the active contraceptive; others use progesterone in a plastic device. IUDs are very effective at preventing pregnancy (less than 2% chance per year for the progesterone IUD, less than 1% chance per year for the copper IUD). IUDs come with increased risk of ectopic pregnancy and perforation of the uterus and do not protect against sexually transmitted disease. IUDs are prescribed and placed in the uterus by health care providers.




  • Review Date: 4/24/2006
  • Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Medical Illustration Team and J. Gordon Lambert, M.D., Associate Medical Director; G. Eric Morgan, MS3; RxRemedy.
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