5 Reasons an IUD Might Be the Right Birth Control Option for You

When it comes to choosing birth control, one size doesn’t fit all. You want something that works with your lifestyle, is safe, and effective. One option that checks all those boxes? The intrauterine device, or IUD.

Here are five reasons why an IUD might be the best birth control choice for you.

What Is an IUD?

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device that a healthcare provider places inside your uterus to prevent pregnancy.

There are two main types of IUDs:

• Hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla) release progestin, which thickens cervical mucus, thins the uterine lining, and may stop ovulation.
• Copper IUD (Paragard®) contains no hormones. Copper naturally repels sperm, preventing fertilization.

IUDs are over 99% effective and can last 3–12 years depending on the type. The best part? They’re fully reversible—you can get pregnant as soon as the IUD is removed.

1. Long-Term and Highly Effective

With a failure rate of less than 1%, IUDs are one of the most effective forms of birth control available—comparable to sterilization, but reversible. No daily pill, no remembering prescriptions—just reliable protection.

2. Set It and Forget It Convenience

Life is busy. An IUD works in the background without daily effort. Once placed, it silently protects you from pregnancy for years, giving you peace of mind and freedom from daily reminders.

3. Fully Reversible with No Long-Term Impact

Unlike permanent options, IUDs give you flexibility. If you decide you want to grow your family, removal is simple and most women return to normal fertility almost immediately.

4. Hormonal and Non-Hormonal Options

Every body is different, and IUDs give you choices:

• Hormonal IUDs can reduce cramps and lighten periods (some women even stop menstruating).
• Copper IUD is completely hormone-free, making it ideal if you want effective pregnancy prevention without hormones.

5. Emergency Contraception That Lasts

Few people realize that IUDs can also work as emergency contraception. If inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex, they’re over 99% effective—and unlike the morning-after pill, they keep protecting you for years afterward.

When to Consider an IUD

An IUD may be right for you if you want:

• Highly effective, low-maintenance contraception
• Flexibility to remove it anytime
• The choice between hormonal or non-hormonal birth control
• Long-term pregnancy protection without daily effort

Expert OB-GYN & Primary Care at BASS Medical Group

Birth control should fit your body, your plans, and your comfort level. At BASS Medical Group, our OB-GYNs and primary care providers can help you explore your options and decide whether an IUD is right for you.

Request an appointment today to talk with one of our experts.