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IUD: Pros and cons
By Mayo Clinic staffThe IUD is a long-lasting, safe and reversible means of birth control, yet there are downsides. To help you decide if it's right for you, keep the following points in mind:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The IUD is highly effective. | Placement of an IUD carries a small risk of pelvic infection during the first few weeks after device insertion. There's an increased risk of pelvic infection in women with IUDs with multiple sexual partners. |
| Women who are breast-feeding can use an IUD. | In rare circumstances, the device is spontaneously expelled. |
| It's easy to use and cost-effective if used for its full term of effectiveness. | It offers no protection against STDs, including HIV. |
| It's expensive if used for only a short time. |
