Who should not have an IUD inserted?
Women who have the following conditions (contraindications): • Pregnancy • Septic infection following childbirth or abortion (for immediate postpartum or post-abortal insertions) • Unexplained vaginal bleeding (before evaluation) • Cervical, endometrial or ovarian cancer • Current PID • Current purulent cervicitis (gonorrhea or chlamydia) • Malignant gestational trophoblastic disease • Known pelvic tuberculosis • Uterine fibroid or other anatomical abnormalities resulting in distortion of the uterine cavity, which is incompatible with IUD insertion (For more information, see WHO eligibility criteria.)Advantages • Highly effective • No constant supplies needed • Easy to use • Does not interfere with intercourse • Quick return to fertility Disadvantages • Provider needed to initiate and discontinue use • May cause minor pain and/or discomfort during insertion and removal procedures • Has common side effects (complications, such as PID or uterine perforation, are rare) • Small risk of exp
