Intrauterine contraception – one of the most widely used pregnancy prevention methods available today. More than 100 million women around the world prefer to use such an effective method of long duration. Intrauterine contraception is also called the intrauterine device, since earlier these contraceptives had just such a shape. Today, there are more than 50 types of intrauterine contraceptives, and modern intrauterine devices are T-shaped. Despite the large number of advantages, the method has its drawbacks, which both the patient and the doctor recommending this method of contraception should be aware of.
Why choose a spiral: the mechanism of action of intrauterine contraceptives
There are several main theories explaining the mechanism of action of intrauterine contraceptives:
- abortion theory: the intrauterine device injures the endometrium of the uterus, thus stimulating the production of prostaglandins that produce a contraceptive effect;
- the theory of increased peristalsis of the fallopian tubes: the contraceptive enhances the muscular activity of the uterus and fallopian tubes, stimulating too early release of a fertilized egg into the cavity of the uterus unprepared for implantation of the embryo;
- theory of aseptic inflammation: leukocyte infiltration of the endometrium is initiated, which becomes resistant to embryo implantation;
- sperm toxicity theory: intrauterine device stimulates phagocytosis of spermatozoa;
- theory of endometrial enzyme disorders: acid phosphatase activity is increased, which also disrupts the process of implantation of a fertilized egg in the endometrium.
Main benefits of using intrauterine contraception
The main advantages of using the intrauterine device include a very high efficiency contraceptive, duration of effect – the intrauterine contraceptive is installed once and can be used from 3 to 5 years, the immediate resumption of reproductive function after the removal of the intrauterine device, the absence of a negative effect of the contraceptive on lactation and the process of hormone secretion by the woman's ovaries. In addition, intrauterine contraception is indicated in case of contraindications to the use of oral contraceptives. The intrauterine device produces an immediate contraceptive effect, and sexual intercourse thus protected does not require the use of additional contraceptives.
Main disadvantages and use of intrauterine contraception
Given that the intrauterine device is a kind of traumatic agent for the endometrium of the uterus – the use of this method of contraception is not recommended for young nulliparous women. It is important to remember that intrauterine contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections and HIV. After installing the intrauterine device, periodic pain in the lower abdomen, intermenstrual bleeding and heavy menstruation may occur. The risk of an ectopic pregnancy increases with the use of intrauterine contraception. One of the most dangerous conditions that the installation of an intrauterine device can lead to is uterine perforation, so the process of installing a contraceptive should be carried out exclusively by a competent and experienced specialist.
How does the process of installing a spiral occur, and what are there contraindications to its use
Intrauterine contraceptive is installed from day 1 to day 7 woman's menstrual cycle. An examination and a thorough history of the patient should be carried out beforehand. The doctor is obliged to make sure that there are no following conditions that are direct contraindications to the installation of an intrauterine device: pregnancy, acute inflammatory processes of the genital organs, the presence of neoplasms that deform the uterine cavity, as well as congenital anomalies in the structure of the female reproductive system. The intrauterine device is installed using a special conductor, in which the contraceptive is placed. The conductor is inserted into the uterine cavity, the piston built into it is pushed out & nbsp; contraceptive and remove the conductor. Elastic contraceptive straightens and placed in the uterine cavity. The control threads of the contraceptive protrude from the cervical canal by 3-4 cm, with the help of which & nbsp; after 3-5 years, the intrauterine device is removed.
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