Caption

Intrauterine device. Artwork of an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) in place in the uterus. The IUD or coil (T-shaped, at right) consists of a small piece of plastic that is inserted into the uterus (at upper centre) through the vagina (below). A coil of copper wire is sometimes wrapped around the stem. A piece of plastic string hangs through the cervix into the vagina allowing easy checking or removal of the IUD. The bowel and rectum (at left), bladder (at centre) and ovaries (oval, at upper centre) can also be seen. IUDs are thought to prevent implantation of fertilized eggs in the uterine wall. The chance of pregnancy is 2-3% per year of use.