IUD
IUD Birth Control in North Vancouver, BC
Dr. N. Baradaran at BeWell inserts our IUDs and requires a referral from your GP or any WIC physician. You can download and attach our referral form below or click here.
An IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic device that is wrapped in copper or hormone (Levonorgestrel). IUD is the best reversible method to prevent pregnancy. They are excellent for people who do not like to take hormones, cannot take estrogen or who have heavy and painful periods.
Canadian Paediatric Society recommends IUD as the first-line contraception for Canadian youth.
Types of IUDs
Hormonal IUD
- This type is called IUS, or Intra-Uterine System because it is a system to deliver medication to your body. We have two available options: Mirena®️ and Kyleena®️, both effective for 5 years. Almost all extended health plans will cover the cost for this IUD. The hormone thins the uterine lining and thickens cervical mucus.
Copper IUD
- Many different types available effective anywhere from 3 to 10 years depending on type. There is no hormone in Copper IUDs. The copper interferes with both sperm and eggs and prevent fertilized eggs from attaching to the uterus.
What are the benefits of IUDs?
IUDs give you great, long-term protection against pregnancy — they’re more than 99% effective, and yet reversible.
You can’t forget to use it (like the pill, patch, ring or shot), or use it incorrectly (like condom or diaphragm). Some women are unable to take estrogen, so methods like the pill, patch and ring are not safe. Hormonal IUD or IUS has medication (Levonorgestrel), and is often used to control troubling period symptoms such as severe cramping or heavy bleeding.
Many women do not use IUD for birth control, but for period control.
IUD Insertion
If you are an anxious person in general or have a low threshold for pain, you can discuss this with Dr. N. Baradaran in your consult session and she might consider using methods or giving medications to alleviate these concerns. In the consult session prior to your insertion she will review you medical history, indications for IUD insertion and make sure you are a suitable candidate. She will provide the prescription for the appropriate IUD if you don’t already have one.
In case your family doctor has already reviewed your history and indication for IUD insertion and given you a prescription, you are welcome to book an insertion session only.
During insertion session she will check the size and position of your uterus, followed by putting a speculum into your vagina to see the cervix. You will then be tested for STIs. She holds the cervix, checks that she can get through the opening, and then inserts the IUD to the top of your uterus. She will then cut the strings.
The process usually takes less than five minutes.
What To Expect After Treatment
Many people feel perfectly fine right after they get an IUD, while others need to take it easy for a while. There can be some cramping and backaches, so plan to have someone drive you home after the insertion procedure.
You may experience some mild cramping and light bleeding (spotting) for 1 or 2 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
The intrauterine device (IUD) is the most effective form of birth control. It’s just as effective as permanent sterilization -- nearly 100% -- yet completely reversible.
The IUD can be used as an emergency contraception and must be inserted within 7 days of unprotected sex. Because of the insertion procedure, the IUD is not suitable to be used regularly as emergency contraception.
While IUDs are one of the best ways to prevent pregnancy, they don't protect you from sexually transmitted infections. Luckily, using condoms every time you have sex reduces the chance of getting or spreading STDs. So the thing to do is to use condoms with your IUD.
An IUD can be left in place from 5 up to 10 years, depending on the type. After this time, it will need to be replaced with a new device.
The best time is just at the end of your period, but anytime is fine, as long as there is no risk of pregnancy. If the purpose of insertion is contraception, we recommend that you abstain from sex from your period until insertion day.
The copper IUD is immediately effective, but the hormonal one (IUS) will take 7-10 days to be effective unless it is inserted while you are on your period. During those 7-10 days you will need to use another back-up method.
IUD REFERRAL FORM
Please call or email contact form and we will be happy to assist you.
MyHealthAccess Registration
Getting medical care in North Vancouver when you need it, shouldn’t be difficult. Create an online-booking account. *New patients must call the office first.
Have Questions About Insurance?
BeWell Medical Clinic is in-network with most major insurance companies. Click the button below to find out if you’re covered.
Quick Contact
BeWell Medical Clinic is conveniently located in North Vancouver off Lonsdale next to Whole Foods.
-
Address
#310 - 138 13th St E, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0E5 -
Phone
604-770-0164 -
Fax
604-770-0165 -
Email
info@bewellmedical.ca
