Despite a rocky past, it seems that IUDs are recovering their reputation and becoming a top pick for contraception once again.
Controversial history initially stymied growth of IUDs
Intrauterine devices (commonly referred to as IUDs or coils) are small, ‘T’-shaped contraceptives that are inserted into the uterus. The hormonal variety can last up to five years, and copper ones from 10-12, making these devices one of the most effective types of reversible birth control.
So it’s no wonder that IUDs quickly rose to popularity in the US when they were introduced in the 1970’s. However, a number of deaths due to septic miscarriages led to the suspension of the Dalkon Shield (the most popular model at the time), and studies linking IUDs to infertility further damaged their already faltering reputation.
But new, better designed models have helped IUDs shake the bad rep, to become the top female contraceptive device used globally, according to new stats from Technavio:
It’s important to note here that these numbers refer to contraceptive devices, which includes things like IUDs, implants and diaphragms. Birth control pills are not included in this segment of the market outlook, as they are considered separately under contraceptive drugs.
Overall, the global female contraceptives market is expected to reach $13,749.2 million by 2019, growing at a CAGR of 3%. The contraceptive drugs segment (which exclusive encompasses the pill and emergency pill) constitutes 41% of the total market, with a projected value of $5,485.91 million by 2019, with IUDs coming in just under that at a projected value of $4,371.9 million.
There’s nowhere to go but up for the IUD
Earlier this month the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) strengthened their opinion on long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs).
Most popular and effective contraceptive methods in the US, 2012:
Source: Guttmacher Institute fact sheet on contraceptive use in the United States
“ACOG has long recommended LARC as the most effective reversible contraceptive option for most women, including those who have not given birth and adolescents who are sexually active,” said David E. Soper, MD, Chair of the College’s Gynecologic Practice Committee in a news release published by ACOG.
According to the release, information from the Contraceptive CHOICE Project indicates that improving information about and access to LARC methods “increases use and may decrease unintended pregnancies, abortions, repeat abortions and adolescent birth rates”.
“Additionally, LARC methods, such as implants and IUDs, were 20 times more effective at preventing pregnancy among CHOICE Project participants than oral contraceptive pills, patches or rings,” reads the statement.
IUDs require zero upkeep, are considered to be 99% successful, and are not overly expensive. The devices can cost between $500 to $1000, which may seem steep at first, but pales in comparison to half a lifetime of birth control pills.
Additionally, there are more and more insurance and funding systems in place to make these devices accessible to women worldwide, which will continue to boost their popularity as a go-to birth control method in the coming years.
