Health·Posted on Apr 21, 201523 Things Everyone Should Know About IUDsIf you're interested in a long-term relationship with your birth control, here are the main things to keep in mind.by Casey GuerenBuzzFeed StaffLinkFacebookPinterestTwitterMail 1. They’re one of the most effective methods of birth control. View this photo on Instagram There are two main kinds: hormonal IUDs and copper IUDs. 2. The hormonal IUD is a tiny plastic device that contains the hormone levonorgestrel, which is slowly released into the uterus. View this photo on Instagram 3. The copper IUD is a tiny device made of plastic and copper, and it’s totally free of hormones. View this photo on Instagram 4. They’re super popular among female doctors. View this photo on Instagram 5. And they’ve been suggested as a safe and effective birth control method for teens. View this photo on Instagram 6. IUDs got a bad rap after an earlier version caused serious health problems. View this photo on Instagram 7. IUDs are good options for pretty much anyone who wants lasting pregnancy protection. View this photo on Instagram 8. But obviously, they’re not for everyone. View this photo on Instagram 9. They don’t actually stop you from ovulating. 10. They start working pretty much immediately. View this photo on Instagram 11. And you can get pregnant as soon as you take them out. Tap to play GIF Tap to play GIF 12. Some people report worse periods and cramps on the copper IUD. View this photo on Instagram 13. With the hormonal IUD, you may have little to no period. 14. But beware: You might bleed A LOT when you first get the hormonal IUD. Tap to play GIF Tap to play GIF 15. Insertion is typically quick, but it can be uncomfortable for some and super painful for others. View this photo on Instagram 16. Here’s what it’s actually like to get an IUD: 17. Your doctor will explain how to check for the strings periodically — just to make sure it’s still in place. 18. You should get an STI test before you get the IUD. View this photo on Instagram 19. There are a few other serious side effects associated with IUDs, but they’re very rare. 20. If you can't take birth control pills for some reason, you might still be able to use an IUD. View this photo on Instagram 21. Your insurance should cover IUDs, but it might not. View this photo on Instagram 22. If you get pregnant while you have an IUD (which is incredibly unlikely), it’s more likely to be ectopic. 23. IUDs have the highest satisfaction rate of all reversible birth control options. View this photo on Instagram