Intrauterine Device or System (IUD/IUS)
What is an intrauterine device (IUD) or intrauterine system (IUS)?
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a contraceptive that is inserted by a doctor into the uterus. It is ideal if you want a low maintenance contraceptive. It's a fit-and-forget contraceptive, which means you do not have to remember to use it regularly ...
How effective is the intrauterine device or system (IUD/IUS)?
All types of intrauterine devices and intrauterine systems (both hormone-based and copper-based) provide 99% protection against pregnancy when fitted correctly, making them among the most effective contraceptives available. Intrauterine devices do ...
How is an intrauterine device or system (IUD/IUS) fitted?
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are inserted by most gynaecologists in Malta in their clinics. The doctor will make sure that you're not pregnant at the time of insertion since an IUD could complicate a pregnancy. You may be given some local anaesthetic ...
How do I get the intrauterine device or system (IUD/IUS) in Malta?
Copper and hormone IUDs are usually inserted in private gynaecology clinics, and the costs of the device and insertion usually have to be paid out of pocket. If you have private health insurance please check whether they would cover or subsidise the ...
How much does an intrauterine device cost?
In Malta, most IUDs are done in private gynaecology clinics, such as at St James Hospital, and are paid for out of pocket. The Mirena currently costs around EUR 180. Jaydess costs around EUR 145. The copper coils are cheaper and cost around EUR 80. ...
What happens if I get pregnant with an intrauterine device (IUD)?
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are among the most effective contraceptives, and pregnancy with an IUD in place is very rare. If the IUD fails for some reason and you become pregnant, it might cause some complications to the pregnancy. For example, there ...
How do I tell if the intrauterine device (IUD) is still in place?
An intrauterine device (IUD) has 2 thin threads that hang down a little way from the womb into the top of the vagina. The doctor that fits your IUD will teach you how to feel for these threads and check that it's still in place. Check your IUD is in ...
I think my intrauterine device (IUD) has moved or come out. What should I do?
If you cannot feel the threads of the IUD in the vagina, or think it's moved, you may not be protected against pregnancy. See your doctor straight away and use additional contraception, such as condoms, until your IUD has been checked. If you have ...
What are the possible risks of having an intrauterine device (IUD) inserted?
Like any other procedure, there are some rare complications of having an IUD inserted. The vast majority of women who have IUDs inserted do not experience these complications. There's a very small chance of getting a pelvic infection in the first 20 ...
What happens to periods with an intrauterine device or system (IUD/IUS)?
All types of IUD can make periods irregular, especially in the first few months. Periods become lighter and may sometimes stop completely with the hormonal IUDs, making them a good choice for women with heavy or painful periods. Copper IUDs may make ...
Does the intrauterine device (IUD) cause abortion?
No. Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a contraceptive which means they prevent a pregnancy, not terminate it.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of hormone intrauterine systems (IUS)?
Hormone intrauterine devices (IUDs), also known as intrauterine systems (IUS), include the Mirena and Jaydess. Like any other contraceptive, they have their advantages and disadvantages. Advantages: It works for 5 years (Mirena) or 3 years (Jaydess). ...
What are the advantages and disadvantages of copper intrauterine devices (IUD)?
Copper intrauterine devices (IUDs), also known as copper coils, include Flexi T, Eurogine, and Monalisa. Like any other contraceptive, they have their advantages and disadvantages. Advantages: It protects against pregnancy for 5 years (Flexi T, ...
What are the differences between hormone intrauterine systems (IUS) and copper intrauterine devices (IUD)?
The main difference between hormone intrauterine systems (IUS) and copper intrauterine devices (IUD) is that hormone IUSs have hormones and copper IUDs do not. The hormones in IUSs can have beneficial effects, as well as side effects. Advantages of ...
How quickly can I get pregnant after the intrauterine device (IUD) is removed?
Fertility returns quickly after an IUD is removed and you can become pregnant straight away. If you do not intend to become pregnant after the IUD is removed, you should start a new method of contraception immediately. If you were experiencing side ...
Can I get help if I cannot afford an intrauterine device (Mirena or Jaydess)?
Unfortunately, there are no government subsidy or reimbursement schemes for contraception in Malta, which means that most women have to pay for a hormone IUD out of their own pocket. The device itself can cost up to 200 Euro, and doctor and clinic ...