IUS
What is the IUS?
IUS stands for intra-uterine system. It looks and works a bit like the IUD except it also releases the hormone progesterone The hormone stops sperm getting to an egg and makes it difficult for an egg to settle in the womb.
What are the advantages?
- The IUS is over 99% effective. That means less than 1 woman out of a 100 who use the IUS will become pregnant in a year.
- It won't get in the way of sex.
- The system works as soon as it is put in and lasts for up to 5 years.
- It can make your periods much lighter and shorter.
What are the disadvantages?
- It can cause light, irregular bleeding for the first 3 months.
- Other side effects of the IUS can include slight breast pain and acne.
- The IUS will not protect you from sexually transmitted infections like HIV, you need to use a condom to do that.
Where can I get hold of the IUS?
Your family doctor or specialists at Contraception and Sexual Health clinics can advise you as to whether the IUS is the best form of contraception for you. If it is, they will be able to provide it for you.