Although an IUS is an effective method of contraception, there are a number of things to consider before having an IUS fitted.
Advantages of an IUS
- It works for five years.
- It's one of the most effective forms of contraception available in the UK.
- It doesn't interrupt sex.
- An IUS may be useful if you have heavy or painful periods because your periods usually become much lighter and shorter, and sometimes less painful. They may stop completely after the first year of use.
- It can be used safely if you're breastfeeding.
- It's not affected by other medicines.
- It may be a good option if you can't use oestrogens (hormones) such as those used in the combined contraceptive pill.
- Your fertility will return to normal when the IUS is removed.
There's no evidence that an IUS will affect body weight or that having an IUS fitted will increase the risk of cervical cancer, uterine cancer (lining of the womb) or ovarian cancer. Some women experience changes in mood and libido, but these are very small.
Disadvantages of an IUS
- Some women won't be happy with the way that their periods may change. For example, they may become lighter and more irregular or, in some cases, stop completely.
- Some women experience headaches, acne and breast tenderness after having the IUS fitted.
- An uncommon side effect of the IUS is the appearance of small fluid-filled cysts on the ovaries. These usually disappear without treatment.
- An IUS doesn't protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) so you may also have to use condoms when having sex. If you get an STI while you have an IUS fitted, it could lead to pelvic infection if it's not treated.
The most common reasons that women stop using an IUS are vaginal bleeding and pain, although this is uncommon. Hormonal problems can also occur but these are less common.
