How do Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) work?

January 21, 2026

How do Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) work?

Children are a huge responsibility, and you should never feel guilty if you don’t quite think you’re ready! You always have plenty of time, and our all-woman team at Central Clinic for Women is here to help when you’re ready to welcome your first child into the world or add to your growing family. And until then, we’re equally happy to help you select the right form of contraception!

Our services include annual exams for women, 3D mammography, obstetric care, and other specialized services such as menopause care and Bioidentical Hormone Optimization Therapy (BHRT). We also offer IUDs from leading pharmaceutical companies, including Nexplanon, Paragard, Mirena, and Skyla, and we’ll help you select the IUD that best fits your body’s unique chemistry during your annual women’s exam.

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) have a 99% success rate and are a popular choice because they don’t require taking a pill or inserting a device before sexual activity. IUDs work in one of two ways: Copper IUDs cause your uterine lining (endometrium) to become inflamed, making it difficult for a fertilized egg (embryo) to implant and develop. Hormonal IUDs release small amounts of hormones over time that partially suppress your ability to release an egg and thicken your cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach your fallopian tubes. 

The device will be inserted during an outpatient office visit, and some IUDs are effective almost immediately after insertion. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, but you might experience some initial cramping or discomfort shortly after insertion; we strongly recommend taking the whole day off from work and taking it easy for the rest of the day once you get home. Your IUD will remain effective for up to 12 years, and can be easily removed whenever you’re ready to become pregnant.

The most common side effects you’re likely to encounter are cramping and changes to your menstrual period. You might also experience headaches, bloating, or mood swings as your body adjusts. If you experience more severe pain or other side effects that persist for longer than a few days, be sure to contact your OB-GYN or Primary Care Physician (PCP) for immediate follow-up!

Contact us online or at (501) 227-5885 today to schedule your annual exam or to find a trusted gynecologist Little Rock.
September 3, 2026
What are the best ways to cope with postpartum depression?
August 25, 2026
What are the key benefits of 3D Mammograms?
August 14, 2026
Why are annual exams for women so important?
July 17, 2026
Do you have questions about Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)? Call us!
July 8, 2026
Are you starting menopause? Let us help ease your journey!
June 19, 2026
Three things every expectant mother should know
June 11, 2026
When should you begin scheduling annual mammograms?
May 22, 2026
Your health is your wealth, and we’re here to help you live your best life!
May 13, 2026
Interested in discussing your family planning options? We’re here to help!
April 23, 2026
As you approach menopause, you’ve probably already heard a lifetime of horror stories from friends and older relatives about what to expect. The experience certainly has no shortage of ups and downs, but they all survived, and so will you! The good news is that you won’t have to go through “the change” on your own, and our dedicated all-woman team of healthcare professionals at Central Clinic for Women is here to ease your menopause journey! We’re conveniently located on the Baptist Health campus in Little Rock, and our services include annual women’s health and cervical cancer screenings, 3D mammograms, bone health assessments, and other tests and procedures as needed. We recognize that each woman's experience is unique, and we provide individualized care to address your specific needs and concerns so you can navigate menopause with confidence. Here are a few frequently asked questions about menopause, and we’re a phone call away if you’d like to learn more or schedule your annual well-woman exam. When does menopause begin? Menopause begins for most women when they reach their early 50s, but some women might start experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-to-late 40s. What are the most common symptoms of menopause? Many women start experiencing a host of unpleasant symptoms once they reach middle age, including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and irregular periods; You might also experience mood swings or struggle to maintain a healthy weight. Menopause affects all women differently, and it’s important to discuss any new symptoms or changes to existing symptoms with your doctor right away. What can I do on my own to manage my symptoms? One of the most important things you can do to manage menopause symptoms is to eat right and get 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise at least three times a week. And if you smoke, quit now! It should also come as no surprise that stress can adversely affect your health, so do your best to identify the natural stressors in your life and plan accordingly. There’s also no shame in talking to a behavioral therapist or other mental health professional if you need further assistance to cope with extreme stress, anxiety, or depression! Contact us online or at (501) 227-5885 to schedule a menopause care appointment or to find a trusted gynecologist Little Rock.