An IUD is a small T-shaped plastic device that is placed in the uterus as a means of contraception to prevent unwanted pregnancy. IUDs are generally a fairly simple and easy to remove form of reversible contraception. IUDs are primarily the most affordable forms of long-term contraception available. As a reminder, the IUD does not protect against HIV or STDs. You should use a condom at all times and use it regularly to reduce the risk of STDs. There are many different types of birth control for women, but the IUD is one of the most commonly used today because it does not. This doesn't involve remembering to take a pill every day, changing patches, or anything else that's going around. There are several types of IUDs, one that releases hormones called Mirena or Skyla, and another non-hormonal one that contains a small amount of copper called ParaGard. Each of these IUDs has its different side effects, benefits, and all the different risks associated with any birth control. The ParaGard is a birth control that can be used for up to ten years, usually after you start taking birth control you should use condoms for seven days, but with this specific IUD it starts working immediately after its insertion. The benefits of ParaGard are that it will not change your hormone levels and that it is reversible, meaning that if you want to get pregnant, you can do so quickly after the IUD is removed. Side effects may include increased cramping, heavier bleeding during periods, back pain, spotting, anemia, vaginitis, pain during sex, and vaginal discharge. For this particular IUD, you need to make sure that you are not sensitive to copper. The Mirena is all...... middle of paper ......): Get information on side effects. (nd). Retrieved from http://www.emedicinehealth.com/birth_control_intrauterine_devices_iuds/article_em.htmInsertion and Removal of Intrauterine Devices - American Family Physician. (nd). Retrieved from http://www.aafp.org/afp/2005/0101/p95.htmlIntrauterine Device (IUD) Birth Control and Side Effects. (nd). Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/intrauterine-device-iud-for-birth-controlRisks Mirena (Hormonal IUD) - Tests and Procedures - Mayo Clinic. (nd). Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mirena/basics/risks/prc-20012867Types of IUD | Maybe the IUD. (nd). Retrieved from http://maybetheiud.org/types-of-iuds/What are the types of intrauterine devices (IUDs)? - IUD birth control: facts about the risks and benefits. (nd). Retrieved from http://www.medicinenet.com/iud/page2.htm