If youre in need of pregnancy prevention, heres why you should consider getting one.

The first IUD was made out of silkworm gut and was spread across the uterus and vagina.

It didnt get much better from there.

Not only did it have horrible side-effects and a scary name, but it also looks ridiculously creepy!

The first copper IUD was created in the 60s.

This was also when the T shape we recognize today came into use.

Hormonal IUDs came along shortly afterwards.

Unfortunately, some of these more advanced models were no better than earlier ones.

This new round of IUD-related lawsuits created even more fear about the devices.

So yeah, the IUD doesnt have the greatest history.

To be fair, most medical inventions dont!

Just look into the history of the hypodermic needle, or what dental tools used to look like.

But the technology has improved, and todays IUDs are now considered incredibly safe.

Only about one in 1,000 women will experience even minor problems with their IUD.

Both versions are T-shaped, and less than two inches long.

Both get implanted directly into the uterus in a procedure that takes about 20 minutes.

The non-hormonal version is made out of copper, and is called theParaGard.

It is effective immediately, and can remain implanted for up to 12 years.

The hormones slowly get released into the body over the course of several years.

Its a smaller dose than you would get from taking a standard birth control pill.

Once youve decided which IUD you prefer, you should be willing to advocate for your decision.

Dont worry, its an outpatient procedure, and only takes about 20 minutes.

The IUD is loaded into a long, thin implantation unit.

Some women describe the implantation process as feeling a little uncomfortable, but mostly painless.

It may feel no worse than a standard pap smear.

On the other hand, about five percent of women feel severe cramping during implantation.

Unfortunately, theres no way to know the level of pain youll experience during your implantation.

Try not to freak yourself out about it beforehand, because the odds are it wont be that bad.

Taking a couple of Advil before your appointment will also help with any potential discomfort.

You may experience some mild cramping in the days after implantation.

These changes will eventually ease up.

Its best to avoid penetration when youre hurting, butmasturbation can relieve some of the pain!

You will eventually have to remember when to remove and/or replace your IUD.

IUDs have nylon threads attached to the end.

The doctor will pull your IUD out using these threads.

What Sex Is Like with an IUD

Remember those threads we were just talking about?

These strings may feel a bit stiff for the first few months.

They will soften up over time (and with more sex!

This doesnt happen for every couple, its common enough to mention.

Despite some of the drawbacks, IUDs are an excellent option for a lot of women.

IUDs last for a long time, and require hardly any effort on your part.

Theyre the most effective method of birth control thats currently available even more effective than sterilization!

Vanessa Marin is a licensed psychotherapist (#78931) specializing in sex therapy.

Its her mission to take the intimidation out of sex therapy and bring the fun back into the bedroom.

Have questions about sex?

you’re free to reach her at[email protected], or at VMTherapy.com.