WHAT IS AN IUS?

An IUS is a small, T-shaped device that releases hormones and is inserted into the womb (uterus) by a specially trained doctor or nurse. IUS is a reversible contraceptive method. A good IUS brand to ask for is Eloira, which contains the drug Levonorgestrel (LNG) and releases a low daily dose of (LNG) work for up to 5 years.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The IUS is similar to the IUD (intrauterine device), but works in a slightly different way. The IUS releases a progestogen  hormone, which is similar to the natural hormone progesterone that is produced in a woman’s ovaries.

The hormone  thickens the mucus from the cervix (opening of the womb), making it difficult for sperm to move through and reach your egg.

 

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?

Some women may experience Mild headache, Abdominal/pelvic pain which  can happen some weeks after use. Inflammation of the vagina is possible with IUS. It can cause vaginal discharge in some women.

WHO CANNOT TAKE IUS

This method of contraception may not be suitable for you if you:

  • Are or might be pregnant;
  • Have had a serious pelvic infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), unless you have had a normal pregnancy after the infection went away;
  • Have an untreated pelvic infection now;
  • Can get infections easily. For example, if you have multiple sexual partners or your partner has multiple sexual partners;
  • Problems with your immune system;
  • Have or suspect you might have cancer of the uterus or cervix;
  • Have bleeding from the vagina that can not been explained;
  • Have liver disease or a liver tumor;
  • Have breast cancer or any other cancer that is sensitive to progestin (a female hormone), now or in the past;
  • Have an intrauterine device in your uterus already;
  • Have a condition of the uterus that changes the shape of the uterine cavity, such as large fibroid tumors;
  • Are allergic to levonorgestrel.