Mechanisms of Action
The hormonal IUD's primary mechanism of action is to prevent fertilization. The levonorgestrel intrauterine system has several contraceptive effects:
- Cervical mucus thickens
- Sperm's survival and ability to penetrate the egg is inhibited
- Endometrium is suppressed
- In some women, ovulation is inhibited
Numerous studies have demonstrated that IUDs primarily prevent fertilization, not implantation. In one experiment involving tubal flushing, fertilized eggs were found in half of women not using contraception, but no fertilized eggs were found in women using IUDs. IUDs also decrease the risk of ectopic pregnancy, which further implies that IUDs prevent fertilization.
Read more about this topic: IUD With Progestogen
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