What's new in birth control
There are so many birth control options to consider today. Which one is right for you?
By Rhea Seymour
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IUD (intrauterine device) and IUS (intrauterine system)
Despite a questionable reputation—thanks to the Dalkon Shield’s faulty design in the 1970s, which increased the risk of pelvic infections—the IUD is regaining popularity. New models, such as the Nova-T and Flexi-T copper IUDs and the Mirena IUS (the only IUS in Canada), are better designed without the same problems. “They’re certainly becoming more popular, with usage up from one percent of Canadian women to five percent in the past decade,” says Maker. “And a lot of it has to do with Mirena, which is really safe—it doesn’t increase rates of infection and is as effective as tubal ligation.”
What’s involved: An obstetrician/gynecologist or family doctor inserts the small T-shaped copper IUD, or the flexible plastic IUS, through the cervix into the uterus. The procedure does not require anesthesia and takes about 15 minutes. “There may be a bitof pain or discomfort, which is treated with pain medication,” says Maker. You’ll be able to feel the threads of an IUD or IUS, which hang from the cervix into the vagina—that tells you it’s in place. If your partner can feel the threads during sex, though, you can ask your doctor to shorten them.
How they work: In the IUD, the copper creates a toxic environment in the uterus that kills sperm. A bit of the hormone progestin is released by the Mirena IUS into the uterus, which thins out the uterine lining and prevents implantation. The IUS is 99 percent and the IUD is 98 percent effective for preventing pregnancy, and both remain in the uterus for five years.
What’s involved: An obstetrician/gynecologist or family doctor inserts the small T-shaped copper IUD, or the flexible plastic IUS, through the cervix into the uterus. The procedure does not require anesthesia and takes about 15 minutes. “There may be a bitof pain or discomfort, which is treated with pain medication,” says Maker. You’ll be able to feel the threads of an IUD or IUS, which hang from the cervix into the vagina—that tells you it’s in place. If your partner can feel the threads during sex, though, you can ask your doctor to shorten them.
How they work: In the IUD, the copper creates a toxic environment in the uterus that kills sperm. A bit of the hormone progestin is released by the Mirena IUS into the uterus, which thins out the uterine lining and prevents implantation. The IUS is 99 percent and the IUD is 98 percent effective for preventing pregnancy, and both remain in the uterus for five years.
Who they’re best for: The IUD and IUS are marketed to women who have had children (including breastfeeding moms); the devices are easier to insert in women who have had a vaginal birth. But women who’ve never had children can also use them. They can be removed at any time.
When to avoid them: Copper IUDs may make periods heavier with more cramping. According to Maker, the Mirena IUS may actually reduce the amount of menstrual bleeding; some women stop their periods altogether when using it. And the progestin in Mirena means that there’s potential for worsening migraines, but it’s low risk. Women with multiple partners who are at higher risk for pelvic infections (such as chlamydia and gonorrhea) should not use Mirena.
Where they’re available: Across Canada by prescription. The copper IUD costs $70-$150 and Mirena is about $400. Since they work for five years, they may be more cost-effective than condoms or pills in the long run.
Image: Tracy Shumate
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