What Works/What Doesn’t

Preventing Pregnancy

IUD

Method

A small device that contains copper or the hormone progestin that is inserted by a health care provider into a woman’s uterus.

Success Rate

Using an IUD, less than 1 woman in 100 (1%) will become pregnant in a year.

The Perks

It provides effective pregnancy protection and lasts a long time—a copper IUD can stay in place for up to twelve years, and a progestin IUD lasts 5 years.

Drag Factor

Doesn’t protect against STDs including HIV. Some women have spotting between periods, heavier periods, and increased cramping.

How To Get It

Requires a visit to a health care provider; cost is about $175 to $650 for insertion and removal costs about $100.

Condoms, when used consistently and correctly, are the ONLY method that protects sexually active people from both STDs and pregnancy.

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