Many women choose an intrauterine device, or IUD, as their primary means of birth control. Often women will contact Avenue Women’s Center inquiring, “What are my chances of getting pregnant when using an IUD?” It’s an excellent question.
Any time you are concerned about a possible pregnancy, Avenue Women’s Center is here for you. We offer lab-quality, free pregnancy tests at all of our Chicagoland locations, and invite you to call or text us today.
IUDs are a long-acting reversible form of contraception (LARC). LARCs are easy to use, last for several years and can be removed, for example if a woman wishes to become pregnant. When a woman is hoping to prevent pregnancy, using an IUD, and wondering her chances of getting pregnant, we have found the following statement from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) to be helpful:
“During the first year of typical use, fewer than 1 in 100 women using an IUD… will become pregnant. This rate is in the same range as that for sterilization.”
There are two primary kinds of IUDs, hormonal and copper. ACOG explains:
“Both types of IUDs work mainly by preventing fertilization of the egg by the sperm. The hormonal IUDs also thicken cervical mucus, which makes it harder for sperm to enter the uterus and fertilize the egg, and keep the lining of the uterus thin, which makes it less likely that a fertilized egg will attach to it.”
If you have been using an IUD and are now concerned that you might be pregnant, please contact us.* We are here to help Chicagoland women face unintended pregnancies – from taking an accurate pregnancy test to setting the best course of action for your situation. Our caring staff will confidentially discuss your unique concerns, and our tests and consultations are free. We hope to hear from you.
* Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.