HORMONAL INTRAUTERINE SYSTEM (IUS)
A small T-shaped frame containing levonorgestrel, a progestin hormone. Once placed in the uterus by a healthcare provider, the IUS slowly releases the hormone, which thins the lining of the uterus and thickens the cervical mucus, preventing passage of sperm through the cervical canal. An IUS is replaced either every 3 or every 5 years depending on the product.
99.8% EFFECTIVE WITH TYPICAL USEDid you know?
The intrauterine system (IUS) and intrauterine device (IUD) are about the size of a quarter. IUCs are generally small T-shaped frames that are a little longer than an inch (about 3 cm) – or about the size of a quarter, with a lot less surface area!BENEFITS
- 99.8% effective with perfect use
- 99.8% effective with typical use
- Reversible
- Replace every 3 or 5 years
- May be associated with decreased menstrual pain
- May reduce menstrual flow; some women may stop having periods
- Side effects can include irregular or increased bleeding in the first months after insertion
- May cause hormonal side effects such as depression, acne, headache, and breast tenderness
- Rare risks during placement could include infection, perforation of the uterus, or expulsion of the IUS
