IUD in Houston, TX

Intrauterine devices, or IUDs, are the preferred method of birth control for many women in Houston and surrounding areas of Texas, including Cypress, Sugarland, and Katy. Board-certified (gynecological) surgeon Dr. Farhina Imtiaz offers IUDs at North Cypress Women’s Center.

What is an Intrauterine Device or IUD?

An intrauterine device, or IUD, is a type of contraception that is inserted into the uterus. The design of an IUD resembles the letter “T”, and this design allows the device to comfortably conform to the natural shape of the uterus. Intrauterine devices are made of plastic and are coated with either hormones or copper that prevents pregnancy.

IUD Benefits

Many women choose IUDs because birth control pills result in unfavorable side effects or because the woman is concerned with forgetting to take her pills. Couples often prefer IUDs because of its reliability. Unlike condoms, though, IUDs are not designed to prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

What Types of Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) are Available?

IUDs come in two basic designs:

  • Hormonal IUDs that work by killing and/or damaging sperm and changing the characteristics of the cervix. The hormones in these IUDs also prevent the uterine lining from thickening. You may have less menstrual cramping and bleeding with a hormonal IUD.
  • Mirena®

Mirena® is a hormonal IUD that is proven to be 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. You can keep the IUD inserted in the uterus for up to five years. Mirena® is recommended for women who have already had children, however, it can also be used by women who have not had children.  Mirena makes your periods very light but irregular.

  • Skyla®

Skyla® is a hormonal IUD that is proven 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. The IUD is designed to remain in the uterus for up to three years. This IUD is usually preferred by younger women or women who have not had children.

  • Non-hormonal or Copper IUD has fine copper wire wrapped around the main IUD. The copper works by triggering the uterus and fallopian tubes to produce fluid that destroys sperm.
  • Paragard®

Paragard® is a copper IUD that is proven 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. The device works by slowly releasing copper that is proven to prevent the fertilization of eggs. Copper also helps prevent pregnancy by reducing sperm movement. The IUD is designed to remain in the uterus for up to 10 years.

How Do I Use an IUD?

IUDs must be properly placed in the uterus to maximize the benefits of the devices. To ensure proper placement, IUDs must be placed by an experienced physician. Dr. Imtiaz will insert the IUD into your uterus during your appointment. A string attached to the device is accessible from the cervix. The purpose of the string is to allow you to verify that the IUD is in place, as well as to allow Dr. Imtiaz to remove the device in the future. Other than the string, you should not be able to tell that the IUD is in place, including during sex.

IUD Preparation

Women who are pregnant or who have a pelvic infection are not candidates for IUDs. Dr. Imtiaz may run some basic tests to verify that you do not have any medical conditions that preclude you from using an IUD. She will also discuss your lifestyle to ensure that an IUD is the best form of contraception for you.

IUD Recovery

After the intrauterine device is inserted, you should not be able to feel the device. You should avoid sex for the first 24 hours. Minimal discomfort that may be experienced during the insertion should resolve shortly after the insertion. Dr. Imtiaz will often recommend a follow-up appointment one to two weeks later for ultrasound to confirm placement.

How Much Does an IUD Cost in Houston?

Intrauterine devices are covered by medical insurance, and your coverage may require no out-of-pocket cost. Once you decide which type of IUD is right for you, our patient coordinator will explain all of your costs. Payment can be made by cash, major credit card, and CareCredit® financing.

Is an Intrauterine Device (IUD) Right for Me?

Birth control is a personal choice, and you should always feel comfortable with your chosen method of contraception. An IUD might be right for you if you do not want to take birth control pills. Dr. Imtiaz will help you decide if an IUD is the best option for birth control.

IUD Consultation

IUDs can be a convenient and comfortable option for women who want to prevent pregnancy. If you would like to learn more about IUDs and other contraceptive options at North Cypress Women’s Center, contact us to schedule a consultation.

Board-certified (gynecological) surgeon, Dr. Farhina Imtiaz specializes in intrauterine devices, or IUDs, as well as other types of birth control. Her professional guidance helps women in Houston and surrounding areas of Texas, including Cypress, Sugarland, and Katy, find the right IUD for preventing pregnancy.

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