Illustration of hormonal and non-hormonal IUD

IUD effectiveness: Pros and considerations

Jen on the roof terrace at Natural Cycles headquarters.

Written by Jennifer Gray

Jennifer Gray

Jennifer Gray is an award-winning writer with more than five years’ experience covering reproductive topics ranging from birth control to planning pregnancy. She is passionate about providing women with accurate information grounded in science they can use to take charge of their own health - while also dispelling myths that exist within the field of women’s health. She holds a Master of Science from the University of Edinburgh and currently lives in Ireland.

Jack in a suit and tie holding a microphone and giving a presentation.

Fact checked by Jack Pearson, Medical Affairs Manager at Natural Cycles

Jack Pearson

Dr. Jack Pearson is a previously HCPC registered Embryologist with a PhD in reproductive medicine. Prior to joining Natural Cycles leading Medical Affairs, he worked for more than 10 years in a clinical setting working at some of the busiest fertility clinics in the UK. Today he spends most of his time working with experts at the world’s leading institutions to carry out important research with the vision to further the field of female health. He earned his PhD from the University of Sheffield specializing in Sperm Metabolism and currently lives in London.

Last updated:

Oct 27, 2023

4 min read

Key takeaways:

Both types of IUD are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy
IUDs are long-acting methods that work for up to twelve years and need to be fitted and removed by a healthcare professional
There are some common side effects to using both hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs

Choosing an intrauterine device (IUD) is a long-term decision, and, as with considering any birth control method, it’s important to know all the facts before you make a decision. In this article, we’ll unpack the chances of getting pregnant with an IUD, and what people like and dislike about this contraceptive method.

How effective are IUDs when used as birth control?

There are two types of IUD: the hormonal and the non-hormonal IUD, both are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. These long-acting birth control methods are considered highly effective because they require very little work from the person using them, and once inserted they can prevent pregnancy for up to twelve years. The chance of getting pregnant with an IUD is less than 1%.

Keep in mind that while no birth control method is 100% effective at preventing pregnancy, IUDs are one of the most effective options out there and are a good option for those who want to prevent pregnancy for a long period of time without having to think about their birth control method regularly.

How effective are IUDs when used as emergency contraception?

The copper IUD is the most effective form of emergency birth control available, if inserted within the first five days of unprotected sex, there is a less than 1% chance of pregnancy. This is because the copper IUD creates a hostile environment in the uterus that stops a fertilized egg cell from implanting into the uterine wall. Some morning after pills, such as Plan B, can be less effective as they work by delaying ovulation, meaning if you’ve already ovulated, it might not work as emergency birth control.

Keep in mind that the hormonal IUD cannot not be used as emergency contraception, and if you’ve recently had unprotected sex you should consider taking a morning after pill or having the copper IUD fitted instead. Getting the hormonal IUD inserted after you’ve had unprotected sex puts you at risk of ectopic pregnancy, so a healthcare professional may ask you to wait if there is a chance you may be pregnant when you go to the appointment.

What are the benefits of IUDs?

Many women love using the IUD as their chosen method of contraception, here’s why:

Once inserted you don’t have to think about your birth control for a number of years
It’s highly effective: the chances of you getting pregnant on the IUD are extremely small
The copper IUD is a non-hormonal birth control option and may be a good choice for those who can’t take hormonal contraception like the pill
The copper IUD can be used as emergency birth control up to five days after unprotected sex
You can use an IUD while breastfeeding and can usually get one straight after giving birth
The IUD is considered extremely safe as a birth control method and risks are very rare

What are the disadvantages of IUDs?

Every contraception has its pros and cons, and there are a few things to consider before getting an IUD, such as:

It’s invasive: you must get the IUD fitted and removed by a healthcare professional, this can be painful for some people but the pain doesn’t last for long
IUDs do not offer protection from sexually transmitted infections
The hormonal IUD can cause side effects, including mood changes and lower libido
The copper IUD can cause increased cramping and bleeding when you get your period
Getting pregnant after IUD removal can take a little longer, for most people fertility will return within a few months
Although extremely rare, there are some risks that come with IUD use, including the device falling out, or getting stuck to the uterus wall
The chances of getting pregnant with an IUD are extremely small, but if it happens it can cause an ectopic pregnancy (when a fertilized egg cell implants in the fallopian tubes)

Have you heard of the FDA Cleared birth control app?

Natural Cycles is a non-hormonal, non-invasive method of birth control that’s based on temperature. It’s 93% effective with typical use and 98% effective with perfect use. It’s a great option for those who want to avoid invasive or hormonal contraception. Natural Cycles is FDA Cleared in the US and certified in Europe for use as birth control.

As well as using Natural Cycles to prevent pregnancy, the same science can also be used to plan pregnancy when the time is right. In fact, NC° Plan Pregnancy users get pregnant in three cycles on average. Everyone’s fertility journey is different and whether you want to get pregnant now, someday or never, Natural Cycles is here to support you on your chosen path. Why not find out if the world’s first birth control app could work for you today?

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