IUD Choices: Hormonal or Copper, and How Insertion Works
The IUD is one of the most reliable forms of contraception today: it is inserted once, protects for years and is fully reversible. The question women ask most often is not whether the IUD works, but which one to choose: hormonal or copper. In this article we explain how each of them works, how they differ in practice and what the insertion itself looks like.
How does an IUD work?
The IUD (intrauterine device, "spiral") is a small T-shaped device that a gynecologist places into the uterus during a short procedure at an examination. Once inserted, it protects against pregnancy for years, with no daily routine, and fertility returns soon after removal. By the way they work, there are two types: hormonal and copper.
The hormonal IUD
The hormonal IUD releases small amounts of the hormone levonorgestrel locally, inside the uterus itself. Besides contraception, in most women it gradually makes periods lighter and less painful, which is why it is often recommended precisely to women with heavy cycles. The best known is Mirena, which we covered in detail in Mirena IUD. Depending on the type and the doctor's recommendation, it usually protects for five to eight years.
The copper IUD
The copper IUD contains no hormones: contraception is provided by copper, which creates an environment in which fertilization is not possible. It is chosen by women who want to avoid hormones, and depending on the model it protects for up to ten years. It is worth knowing that for some women, especially in the first months, periods can be heavier and more uncomfortable, which is discussed at the examination before choosing.
What does the insertion look like?
Before the insertion, a gynecological examination with ultrasound is done to check the uterus and rule out obstacles. The insertion itself is a short procedure, most often done during or right after a period, when it is simplest. You feel brief discomfort, similar to a menstrual cramp, which passes quickly. A follow-up examination is scheduled afterwards to confirm the IUD is in place.
How to choose?
The choice depends on your cycle, health status and plans. For women with heavy periods the gynecologist often suggests the hormonal IUD, and for those who want hormone-free contraception the copper one. The right decision is made at the examination, when the doctor has the full picture. At the Miren Medic clinic the choice, the insertion and the later check-ups are all done by the same gynecology team.
IUD insertion price
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| IUD insertion | 20.000 RSD |
| IUD removal | 13.000 RSD |
| Gynecological examination + ultrasound | 12.000 RSD |
| Gynecological ultrasound | 8.000 RSD |
Frequently asked questions
Which IUD is better: hormonal or copper?
Neither is universally better: the hormonal IUD usually makes heavy periods lighter alongside contraception, while the copper one is the choice for women who want protection without hormones. The decision is made with a gynecologist, based on your cycle and health status.
How long does an IUD protect?
A hormonal IUD usually protects for five to eight years, and a copper one for up to ten, depending on the model. The exact period is set by the manufacturer for each type, and your doctor records it in your chart.
Does IUD insertion hurt?
Most women feel brief discomfort similar to a menstrual cramp, which passes within a few minutes. Insertion is therefore usually done during or right after a period, when it is simplest.
How much does IUD insertion cost in Belgrade?
At the Miren Medic clinic the insertion costs 20.000 RSD, with a prior gynecological examination with ultrasound. The price of the IUD itself depends on the model you choose with your doctor.
Book an examination
If you are considering an IUD, book a gynecological examination at the Miren Medic clinic. At the examination you choose the type of IUD that suits you with the doctor and immediately arrange the insertion date.
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Specialist in gynecology and obstetrics
