How Soon Will My New IUD Start Working?

Lots of people try other methods of birth control before switching to the IUD. There are many reasons to love the IUD, including the fact that it’s extremely effective at preventing pregnancy (over 99% effective!), and because once inserted, there’s nothing else you need to do to use it. This is why it’s sometimes called a “set it and forget it” method. 

If you’re thinking about switching to the IUD after using another method of birth control, you may be wondering: How long after insertion does the IUD start protecting you against pregnancy. The answer depends on the type of IUD you choose. The providers at your nearest The Right Time health center are always there to help you with the process of switching methods if you decide that’s what you want to do. Here’s what to know about the IUD, specifically.

Hormonal IUDs (Kyleena, Mirena, LILETTA, and Skyla) start working depending on where someone is in their cycle. If you’re on your period and you get a hormonal IUD placed, it will start working immediately. If you get a hormonal IUD inserted when you aren’t on your period, it could take a week or so to start working. In this case, you may consider using a backup method like condoms until those seven days have passed.

Non-hormonal IUDs (brand name Paragard) work immediately after insertion. 

Although IUDs are great for preventing pregnancy, they do not protect against STIs. If that’s a priority for you, consider using a barrier method in addition to your IUD. 

For more information on IUDs and how they work, make an appointment to visit your nearest The Right Time health center.