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Does an IUD Have Side Effects?
I'm concerned about some of the possible side effects of the pill and am considering switching to a different form of birth control. Does the intrauterine device (IUD) have any risk of side effects?
Answer
The copper IUD (ParaGard®) tends to increase menstrual bleeding, while the hormonal IUD (Mirena®, Skyla™) tends to lessen or eliminate menstrual bleeding, especially after the first few months, during which time bleeding tends to be irregular. Spotting and cramping are common with both, especially shortly after insertion. Serious side effects are quite rare with both, but may include:
- Ectopic pregnancy (IUDs increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, in the rare event that pregnancy does occur)
- Other pregnancy problems, such as miscarriage or preterm labor, in the rare event that pregnancy occurs
- Severe uterine infections
- Embedding of the IUD into the uterus or perforation of the uterus.
Written by/reviewed by:
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD