Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List

| A | | B | | C | | D | | E | | F | | G | | H | | I | | J | | K | | L | | M |
| N | | O | | P | | Q | | R | | S | | T | | U | | V | | W | | X | | Y |

Who can use it? of Intrauterine device (IUD)

A woman’s family and health history will determine whether or not an IUD can be used. For example, the device may be unsuitable for women who have had unexplained bleeding, heavy periods, or problems with their womb or cervix, such as toxic shock syndrome, in the past. Women who have had an ectopic pregnancy, a recent abortion or have an artificial heart valve will also need to consult their doctor before having an IUD fitted.

An IUD is not a suitable method of contraception for women who are already pregnant or who have any untreated sexually transmitted diseases.

An IUD cannot be fitted until 6 weeks after a vaginal birth and 8 weeks after a caesarean birth.

You must not have an IUD fitted if there is any chance at all that you may be pregnant.