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03:27

IUD for Birth Control: 7 Facts an OB-GYN Wants You to Know

Learn about the two types of IUDs (intrauterine devices) and what to know if you’re considering getting one.

Lauren Smith, MAMandy Armitage, MD
Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Mandy Armitage, MD
Updated on March 3, 2025

If you’re always forgetting to take your birth control pill, a more long-term pregnancy prevention method may suit you better. One long-acting reversible birth control that is growing in popularity is the IUD, or intrauterine device.

Here's what you need to know if you're considering getting an IUD, according to Kecia Gaither, MD, OB-GYN and Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist.

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Additional Medical Contributors
  • Kecia Gaither, MD, MPH, MS, MBA, FACOGDr. Gaither, an ob-gyn and maternal fetal medicine specialist, is director of perinatal services at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center, a member of NYC Health + Hospitals System in Bronx, New York.

    References

    Allergan. (2020). Liletta- levonorgestrel intrauterine device [package insert].

    American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2024). Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC): Intrauterine device (IUD) and implant.

    View All References (7)

    Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals. (2021). Kyleena- levonorgestrel intrauterine device [package insert].

    Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals. (2021). Skyla- levonorgestrel intrauterine device [package insert].

    Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2024). MIRENA (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) [package insert].

    CooperSurgical, Inc. (2020). Paragard intrauterine copper contraceptive [package insert].

    Lanzola, E. L., et al. (2025). Intrauterine device placement and removal. StatPearls.

    Sebela Women’s Health. (2025). Miudella (copper intrauterine system) [package insert].

    Wiebe, E, et al. (2012). Does using tampons or menstrual cups increase early IUD expulsion rates? Contraception.

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