Planned Parenthood

Someone asked us:

how soon do IUD’s start working?

How soon an IUD starts working depends on what kind it is: copper or hormonal. The ParaGard IUD, which contains copper and is effective for up to 12 years, starts preventing pregnancy as soon as it’s inserted. The Liletta, Skyla, and Mirena IUDs, which release a small amount of the hormone progestin, are effective for up to three, three, and six years respectively — and when they starts working depends on when they’re inserted. If it’s inserted within seven days after the start of your period, it’s effective immediately. If it’s inserted at any other time during your menstrual cycle, use another form of birth control (like a condom) if you have vaginal sex during the first week after insertion. Pregnancy protection starts after seven days.

Want to learn more about IUDs? Check out our IUD page.

-Nina at Planned Parenthood