The Intra uterine device or IUD is one of the best forms of long term reversible contraceptive methods available.
They have the highest rate of preventing pregnancy -99% and can easily be inserted or removed in just a few minutes in the clinic by an experienced doctor.
IUDs are a recommended form of birth control for women as they are a “insert and forget” type of method. It is efficient, reliable, safe and once inserted, you do not have to think about it for the next 5 years.
This is preferred compared to pills whereby missed pills are a common problem encountered.
The insertion process of an IUD, in the hands of an experienced women’s health doctor, is quick and fuss free with minimal pain and discomfort.
What Are IUDs?
An IUD is a tiny T shaped device that is inserted into the womb. Having this device sitting in the uterine cavity will help to prevent pregnancy effectively.
IUDs are a form of long acting reversible contraception (LARC) and the most effective birth control method available.
An IUD can be used for up to 5 years. Should the woman decide that she wants to conceive anytime, the IUD can be easily removed anytime before its due date.
There are 2 main types of IUDs available in Singapore – a hormonal type of IUD also known as Hormonal IUD, and a non hormonal Copper IUD.
Contents
Types Of IUDs in Singapore
Copper IUD Singapore
The Copper Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUD or IUCD) is one of the most effective and reliable contraception options available in Singapore. It is at least 99% effective in preventing an unwanted pregnancy.
It is a form of long acting reversible contraception (LARC) that can be used for up to 5 years and can be easily removed anytime the woman decides that she wants to conceive.
It is the only non hormonal form of long term contraception available.
It is a tiny T shaped device that is inserted into the womb. Having this device sitting in the uterine cavity will help to prevent pregnancy effectively.
The IUD can be inserted in the clinic via a simple procedure with minimal discomfort.
How does it work?
The copper intrauterine device (IUD) prevents pregnancy in a few ways.
Firstly, having the IUD sit inside the uterine cavity will help to prevent fertilization and implantation of the fertilised egg from occurring. This thus helps to prevent pregnancy in an effective manner.
Additionally, it also releases copper ions which are toxic to the sperm and makes the cervical mucus unfavourable. This inhibits and prevents the movement of sperm to the egg so that fertilization cannot occur after sexual intercourse.
This makes the it an extremely effective method of contraception.
Who is suitable?
This is suitable for women who do not wish to conceive in the next few years and who desire a safe, effective and convenient family planning method.
It can be safely used in both women who have given birth before and women who have never had childbirth before.
Even if a woman has never had a natural childbirth before and has only had a caesarean section, she can be suitable for an IUD.
Additionally, it is an excellent NON HORMONAL option that women can consider, especially those who are not suitable for the use of hormones.
Last but not least, the copper IUD can be used as a form of emergency contraception and is the most effective way to prevent an unexpected pregnancy.
Who is not suitable?
The copper coil may not be suitable for women with underlying heavy menstrual issues or women with painful periods, it may worsen these problems.
It is also not suitable for women with underlying conditions that affect the shape or anatomy of their uterus eg very large fibroids, or a bicornuate uterus.
This is also not recommended if you have an ongoing sexually transmitted infection that has not been treated.
Occasionally, the insertion of the IUD may not be possible if the woman’s cervical canal is oddly shaped or blocked by fibrous tissues or strictures.
Hence, it is very important to be assessed by an experienced doctor beforehand to see if you are suitable for this procedure!
What are the side effects?
The most common side effects of the copper IUD are heavier menstrual periods and increased menstrual cramps.
There can also be side effects associated with the procedure such as expulsion of the IUD from the uterus if the IUD is not placed correctly, or uterine perforation, which means injury to the wall of the uterus.
The risk of these complications are higher if the procedure is performed by an inexperienced doctor.
Hence, it is important to ensure that you get an experienced women’s health doctor to perform the IUD procedure for you.
How is the IUD insertion procedure performed?
The IUD insertion process is a simple procedure that can be done in a women’s health clinic.
There is no need for general anaesthesia or sedation. The procedure will take no more than 10 minutes if done by an experienced doctor.
The IUD is best inserted during your menstrual period. You may consult your doctor to find out exactly which day is the best day for the IUD insertion procedure.
Choosing the correct time to perform the procedure will increase your chances of successfully placing the IUD into the uterus, and it will also make the procedure more comfortable for yourself.
The doctor will then prepare the necessary instruments for the IUD insertion procedure.
Do note that you may experience some discomfort and cramping during the procedure, after which the cramping will slowly get better after the procedure is completed.
How is the IUD removed?
The copper IUD can be used effectively for 5 years.
However, should a woman decide that she wishes to conceive before the 5 year period is up, the IUD can be removed anytime the woman wishes to do so.
The IUD can be easily removed in the clinic as well.
If done by an experienced doctor, this procedure should be quick and painless.
Pros and Cons
The pros of using the IUD is the convenience and ease of use. Once put in place, a woman does not have to worry about the risk of getting pregnant for the next 5 years.
The next biggest benefit is that it is the only form of long term reliable contraception available that does not have hormones. This is suitable for women who are concerned about hormonal side effects or are not suitable for hormonal use.
The cons would be that it requires you to go through a procedure to get it done. This procedure may be slightly uncomfortable for some women.
It may also cause your menstrual periods to become heavier and more painful.
Hormonal IUD
The Hormonal Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUD or IUCD) is a hormone releasing type of IUD that prevents pregnancy for up to 5 years.
It is one of the most effective and reliable forms of family planning. It is at least 99.8% effective in preventing an unwanted pregnancy.
The hormonal IUD is a tiny plastic T shaped device that is inserted into the womb to prevent pregnancy effectively.
It is similar to the copper type with the main exception that the hormonal IUD contains a progesterone hormone, while the copper one does not.
The most popular hormonal IUD in the world and the only one available in Singapore is the hormonal IUD.
Hormonal IUD is a form of long acting reversible contraception (LARC) and can be used for up to 5 years.
The hormonal IUD can be inserted in the clinic easily via a simple procedure with minimal discomfort.
Should the woman decide that she wants to conceive anytime, the hormonal IUD can be easily removed anytime.
How does Hormonal IUD work?
The hormonal IUD is a soft plastic device that sits in the womb. It also contains the hormone Levonorgestrel, a type of progesterone hormone.
This helps to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting fertilization and implantation.
Additionally, the hormonal IUD releases the progesterone hormone gradually and slowly into the womb.
This also helps to prevent pregnancy by thinning the lining of the womb, making it unfavourable for pregnancy.
This allows the hormonal IUD to be one of the most effective contraceptive methods, with the lowest failure rates.
Who is suitable?
The hormonal IUD is suitable for women who do not wish to conceive in the next few years and who desire a safe, effective and convenient contraceptive method.
It can be safely used in both women who have given birth before and women who have never had childbirth before.
Even if a woman has never had a natural childbirth before and has only had a caesarean section, she can be suitable for a hormonal IUD.
Additionally, the hormonal IUD is also an approved and effective method for treating conditions such as heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia) or painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea).
Who is not suitable?
It may not be suitable for women with underlying conditions that affect the shape or anatomy of their uterus eg very large fibroids, or a bicornuate uterus, or women who may not be suitable for hormonal contraception.
Occasionally, the insertion of the IUD may not be possible if the woman’s cervical canal is oddly shaped or blocked by fibrous tissues or strictures.
Hence, it is very important to be assessed by an experienced doctor beforehand to see if you are suitable for this procedure!
What are the side effects of Hormonal IUD?
You may expect irregular spotting or bleeding in between your periods or lighter and more irregular periods once you have the hormonal IUD inserted. This is expected and is nothing to worry about.
This is due to the effects of the progesterone hormone on the womb lining.
After a few months, women may even expect their periods to completely stop as the womb lining is more stabilized by the hormones from the IUD.
There can also be side effects associated with the procedure such as expulsion of the IUD from the uterus if the IUD is not placed correctly, or uterine perforation, which means injury to the wall of the uterus.
The risk of these complications are higher if the procedure is performed by an inexperienced doctor.
Hence, it is important to ensure that you get someone experienced to perform the IUD procedure for you.
How is the Hormonal IUD insertion procedure performed?
The hormonal IUD insertion process is a simple procedure that can be done in the clinic.
There is no need for general anaesthesia or sedation. The procedure will take no more than 10 minutes if done by an experienced doctor.
The IUD is best inserted during your menstrual period. You may consult your doctor to find out exactly which day is the best day for the IUD insertion procedure.
Choosing the correct time to perform the procedure will increase your chances of successfully placing the IUD into the uterus, and it will also make the procedure more comfortable for yourself.
The doctor will then prepare the necessary instruments for the IUD insertion procedure.
Do note that you may experience some discomfort and cramping during the procedure, after which the cramping will slowly get better after the procedure is completed.
How is the Hormonal IUD removed?
The hormonal IUD can be used effectively for 5 years.
However, should a woman decide that she wishes to conceive before the 5 year period is up, the IUD can be removed anytime the woman wishes to do so.
This can be easily removed in the clinic as well.
If done by an experienced doctor, this procedure should be quick and painless.
Pros and Cons
The pros of getting an IUD is the convenience and ease of use. Once put in place, a woman does not have to worry about the risk of getting pregnant for the next 5 years. Compared to methods like birth control pills which require daily commitment, the IUD is extremely convenient and more effective.
The next biggest benefit is that the hormonal IUD is extremely effective in treating other conditions such as heavy menses or painful menses. It allows women to enjoy multiple benefits from a single treatment.
The cons would be that it requires you to go through a procedure to get it done. This procedure may be slightly uncomfortable for some women.
Benefits Of An IUD and why you should get it
- Most effective form of contraceptive method available
- 99.8% effective in preventing pregnancy
- 100% reversible
- Minimally invasive compared to surgical tubal ligation
- Convenient and fuss free compared to other contraceptive options
- “insert and forget” type of method, never have to worry about missing birth control pills
- Immediate return to fertility once removed
- Can last for up to 5 years – be worry free for the next 5 years
- Copper Intrauterine device is the only non hormonal reliable form of long term contraception options
- Hormonal IUD can effectively treat other women’s health conditions too such as heavy menstrual cycle bleeding, painful menstrual cramps and endometriosis
IUCD as a Birth Control Option
IUD Cost Singapore
The cost of getting an IUD in Singapore depends on various factors such as:
- Type of IUD – Copper vs Hormonal IUD
- Types of tests required before and after the procedure
- Experience and skills of the doctor performing the procedure
While an IUD Insertion in Singapore may require more upfront cost at the start, the actual cost of getting an IUD inserted is actually cheaper per month compared to birth control pills as the price paid for the IUD can last you for the next 5 years.
Insertion Cost
The cost of IUD insertion usually consists of a few things:
- Cost of the IUD device
- Doctor’s procedural and consultation fees for IUD insertion
- Tests or check ups done before the IUD insertion procedure
- Follow up checks after the IUD insertion procedure
While the total cost may add up to a larger up front cost, the actual cost of having an IUD per month is actually less than the cost of buying your monthly birth control pills.
Remember that this cost is valid for the next 5 years. This makes an IUD an extremely cost efficient method.
Removal Costs
The cost of IUD removal is usually cheaper than insertion.
IUD removal cost usually just consists of the doctor’s procedural fee for removal as well as the consultation fees.
Fees will differ based on the experience and expertise of the doctor. Hence, it may be helpful to pay slightly more for an experienced doctor to perform the procedure for you.
IUD removal cost also depends on the complexity of the removal process. A straightforward IUD removal procedure can be performed in the clinic at an affordable price.
However, if the IUD is retained or difficult to remove, it may require the use of special facilities in a hospital, which will naturally incur a higher cost.
Services Offered
We are one of the only women’s health clinics to offer both the Copper and Hormonal IUD in Singapore at an affordable price.
Hormonal Intrauterine device Insertion
Hormonal Intrauterine device Removal
Copper Intrauterine device Insertion
Copper Intrauterine device Removal
Routine IUD check ups
Removal of other types of IUDs inserted overseas eg Paragard, Kyleena, Skyla etc can also be performed
Frequently Asked Questions
Some tests are usually recommended before getting an IUD inserted to ensure that the whole process goes smoothly and to minimize the risk of any complications happening.
It is important to check for underlying infection before the IUD procedure is performed.
If it is your first time using an IUD, we will advise you to schedule a consultation first for our doctor to assess you before the procedure is performed.
Some common side effects of the copper device may include: heavier menstrual periods and increased menstrual cramps.
Some common side effects of the Hormonal IUD may include: irregular spotting,lighter and more irregular periods, or no periods at all.
Some uncommon risks associated with the procedure include expulsion of the IUD, migration of the IUD or injury to the uterus. These risks are extremely rare.
The risk of these complications are higher if the procedure is performed by an inexperienced doctor.
Hence, it is important to ensure that you get someone experienced to perform the IUD procedure for you.
The key difference between the two devices is the presence of hormones inside the Hormonal IUD. The copper device does not contain hormones, while the Hormonal IUD does.
Both IUD types can be used for 5 years, and the insertion and removal process are similar.
Do consult with your doctor regarding which type of IUD is the most suitable for you.
The type of copper device available in Singapore is the multisafe 375 which is a T shaped device.
Other types of devices available in other countries include the Paraguard, which is commonly used in the US. Some asian countries also have their own version of copper IUDs in various shapes and sizes.
The only type of hormonal IUD available in Singapore is hormonal IUD. Hormonal IUD is also the most common and popularly used hormonal type IUD around the world.
Other types available in other countries include the Skyla or Jaydess which is commonly used in countries such as the US, UK or Australia.
The Hormonal IUD can last for 5 years.
You most definitely can. The IUD will not interfere with the procedure of doing a PAP smear as the IUD is inside the uterus, while the PAP smear is done at the cervix.
Women with IUDs should continue doing their regular PAP smear screening as required.
Getting your regular PAP smear will also be a good opportunity to check the IUD strings to make sure the position of the IUD is still good.
You should visit a women's health clinic for the doctor to assess and remove the IUD or replace the IUD when it is due.
Yes, you can use the copper IUD as a form of emergency contraception. Emergency contraception is required in a situation whereby unprotected sexual intercourse occurred or when there has been a failure in the woman’s regular birth control method.
The IUD can be inserted as an emergency contraceptive up to 5 days after the unprotected intercourse took place.
This is the most effective form of emergency contraceptive, and can be subsequently left inside to be used as a form of regular contraception.
It depends on the type of IUD that you have. If you have the copper one, you can still expect your usual menstrual period cycles, although the IUD may cause the menstrual flow to be slightly heavier.
If you have a hormonal type inserted, then you will not have your regular menstrual period cycles anymore. You can expect lighter, more irregular spotting or no periods at all.
Yes you may wear a tampon with an IUD.
You can immediately start trying to conceive right after your IUD is removed. The IUD does not impact fertility and the return of fertility is immediate.
Think you need an Intra-Uterine Device (IUD)?
AUTHOR
Dr Michelle Chia
Medical Director
After graduating from the National University of Singapore, Dr Michelle's journey allowed her to train in Women's Health and Aesthetic Medicine. Her experience has led her to be featured on multiple media platforms including Radio Stations and prominent Magazines like Her World, Women's Weekly and CLEO. Her work has also received recognition both locally and internationally in several Medical Conferences.
Ezra Clinic is a Women’s Health, Wellness and Aesthetic Clinic that is conveniently located at the top floor of Royal Square Medical Suites in Novena, Singapore’s Medical Health Hub.
Helmed by Dr Michelle Chia, Ezra Clinic is your chosen one stop clinic for all your Women’s Health and Wellness needs.
Address
101 Irrawaddy Road #21-09, Royal Square Medical Centre, Singapore 329565