Dear Doctor;

I have been wearing an IUD for contraceptive that was fitted in April last year to this day. Do IUDs have lifespan and should I have it changed? Emma.

Dear Emma, 

Usually intrauterine devices are changed after about five years or earlier if someone has side effects like infection, prolonged bleeding, among others.

The IUDs currently in use contain copper. Efficacy depends on presence of copper ions. Studies have shown reduction in number of copper ions about 43-87 months after use. The contraceptive efficacy is said to be present upto four to six years. Hence, if it is just a year old, you can be carefree. But watch out for side effects such as heavy menstrual bleeding, lower abdominal pain, among others.

If one conceives with IUD due to its failure there is high risk of ectopic pregnancy. If you experience any problem or you plan a baby get it removed before, otherwise in consultation with your gynecologist the IUD can be changed after minimum three years.