Neudecker, Maggie2009-05-062009-05-062009-05-06https://hdl.handle.net/11299/49794The information provided in this handout does not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Minnesota Medical School physicians and faculty. These materials are provided for informational purposes only and are in no way intended to take the place of the advice and recommendations of your personal health care provider. You use the information provided in these handouts at your own risk.Worldwide IUDs are the most frequently used form of reversible contraception. Negative publicity has caused IUD use in the U.S. to be much lower than the rest of the world. The IUD is highly effective, reversible, long acting, and has few side effects. The IUD can safely be used in women who have not been pregnant, are not married, are breastfeeding, who have had previous problems with IUDs, and who have a past history of gynecological infections or ectopic pregnancies. Absolute contraindications to IUD use include pregnancy, uterine abnormalities that prevent IUD placement, cancer, allergic reaction to ingredients, and active pelvic infection.en-USIntrauterine devicebirth controlcontraceptionMirenaParaGardOther