IUD

An IUD is a form of birth control that can be placed inside
the uterus to prevent pregnancy.

SKYLA IUD: Key Benefits and
Considerations for Birth Control

18+

Years of experience!

98%

Abortion Success Rate

150,000+

Happy Patients

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An Intrauterine device is basically a highly safe and effective form of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC). An intrauterine device (IUD), also referred to as an intrauterine contraceptive (IUC) is a T-shaped, small and flexible device that is inserted into the uterus through the vagina. This device can provide pregnancy prevention for 3-10 years depending on the type.

Skyla was introduced in 2013. It is a low-dose type of hormonal levonorgestrel intrauterine device containing progestin which has been approved by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is a small and safe device with 99% effectiveness. This updated form of an intrauterine device also delivers lower doses of hormones compared with other hormonal intrauterine devices, lasting up to 3 years. Thus, it has been indicated for prevention of pregnancy for up to 3 years. If even after 3 years continual usage is desired, replacement of the system is essential.

Hear from Our Patients Say

This is an amazing resource for women’s health care!! The staff was so incredibly helpful and made me feel comfortable from the moment I walked in.

The wait was surprisingly short and they don’t overbook so the lobby is very calm. I recommend this clinic for people from all economic backgrounds. I didn’t have insurance and they submitted an emergency mediCal request so the entire visit was covered. This will be my go-to from now on

The staff were very kind and all were working very hard hard to address all the patients there. I was able to get a same day appointment. Cindy was doing so much to keep the patient flow moving. I really appreciate the care I received here. I wish they could get more funding to upgrade their facility a bit, but the office was definitely clean.

I was a walk in and they worked with me and they find ways to help if you can’t financially afford treatment. They listened to me and my needs and were very sweet and attentive. I will be coming here over planned parenthood any day really loved the staff, the front desk the nurse practitioners everyone was so kind which makes experiences like family planning much more enjoyable. ——oh also wanted to add there is parking on Chicago street and it’s 50c an hour so it’s pretty convenient.

After researching up so many clinics, I decided to go to Her Smart Choice. All the medical staff members and doctor himself were friendly and understanding. No one was judgemental and questioned my decision. They answered all and any questions I had. Overall, I had a very pleasant experience. You guys are amazing. Thank you!

SKYLA IUD: Key Benefits and
Considerations for Birth Control

Ready to discuss your options? Click the appointment button to talk to our
caring experts in a private, safe space.

SKYLA IUD

Skyla is basically made up of a polyethylene T-shaped frame that has a loop at one end of the vertical stem and two horizontal arms at the other end. The vertical stem harbours a hormone reservoir consisting of a whitish or pale yellow cylinder, made of a mixture of levonorgestrel (LNG) and silicone. It contains a total of 13.5 mg LNG. A semi-opaque silicone membrane encloses the reservoir and is composed of polydimethylsiloxane and colloidal silica. Also a pure silver ring is present at the top of the vertical stem close to the horizontal arms. The polyethylene of the T-body is compounded with barium sulfate, which makes it radiopaque. Thus both the silver ring as well as the T-body can be visualised on ultrasound examinations. There is a removal thread that is attached to a loop at the end of the vertical stem of the T-body which facilitates easy removal. The Skyla IUD releases levonorgestrel (LNG) at the rate of 14 mcg/day after 24 days which further declines to 5 mcg/day after 3 years thus requiring must its removal or replacement after 3 year.

What is an IUD and how common is it
used as a method of contraception?

Advantages

The foremost advantage of Skyla intrauterine device includes a provision of 99% effectiveness at pregnancy prevention; one can become pregnant almost immediately once the device is removed.

Apart from these advantages, researchers are also studying the use of Skyla IUD in treatment of heavy vaginal bleeding, for instance, making the monthly periods a little lighter or in case of fibroid tumors or bleeding disorders.

Highly effective
Cost effective
Long term protection that can be effortlessly reversed
Easy placement and removal
Excellent alternative to birth control pills for women who cannot take estrogen, for example women having history of blood clots or some types of migraines.

Usage Directions

The basic mechanism of action of Skyla IUD is the continuous release of LNG. This continuous release of levonorgestrel is likely to enhance the contraceptive effectiveness of Skyla along with other mechanisms such as thickening of cervical mucus preventing passage of sperm into the uterus, inhibition of sperm capacitation or survival and alteration of the endometrium.

Unintended pregnancy remains a major issue in the United States. Many of the pregnancies are the result of using contraception incorrectly or inconsistently. The failure rate for Skyla IUD was 0.4% at year 1and 0.9% cumulative over 3 years making Skyla IUD one of the most effective methods of birth control. It is also one of the safest methods.

After 3 years Skyla should not remain in the uterus. If the woman is still experiencing regular menses and pregnancy is not desired, the device should be removed during menstruation. The process of removal is easy and quick wherein usually the clinician just pulls it out by the strings.

Remove Skyla if pregnancy occurs with Skyla in place. There is increased risk of ectopic pregnancy including loss of fertility, pregnancy loss, septic abortion (including septicemia, shock and death), and premature labor and delivery Strict aseptic technique is essential during insertion as Group A streptococcal infection has been reported Before using Skyla, the risks of pelvic inflammatory disease should be considered Bleeding patterns become altered, may remain irregular and amenorrhea may ensue. Evaluation of persistent enlarged ovari an follicles is necessary

Indications of Skyla intrauterine device include majority of women of reproductive age, as they can use it safely and effectively. Efficacy is expected to be the unchanged for post-pubertal females under the age of 18 as for users 18 years and older.

Women who have not had children
Unmarried women including adolescents and women over 40 years old
Women who have just had an abortion or miscarriage
Women doing physical jobs
Women who have had an ectopic pregnancy
Women who have had pelvic inflammatory disease, anemia, infected with HIV and are on antiretroviral therapy and doing well

It is deemed necessary that the insertion of device be done by a trained healthcare provider using strict aseptic technique throughout the insertion procedure. The placement is very simple. Skyla is supplied within an inserter in a sterile package that must not be opened until required for insertion. Intially a speculum is inserted by the clinician and the cervix is cleaned with a disinfectant. Skyla is inserted through a long, thin tube after measurement of the size of uterus. Skyla must be inserted into the uterine cavity during the first seven days of the menstrual cycle or immediately after a first trimester abortion. No back up contraception is necessary on insertion of Skyla. There might be a little pan or bleeding after insertion of the device. In some cases vasovagal responses such as syncope, bradycardia or even seizure in an epileptic patient, especially in patients with a predisposition to these symptoms can occur. Thus prior administration of analgesics is considered in some cases. Regular examination and evaluation 4 to 6 weeks after insertion and then yearly is indicated.

Skyla intrauterine device is contraindicated in women with following medical disorders.

Pregnancy: Skyla intrauterine device is contraindicated for use when pregnancy is suspected or during pregnancy. Before insertion of the Skyla intrauterine device it is necessary to exclude pregnancy through pregnancy test and other appropriate confirmatory tests. It cannot be used for post-coital contraception.
Vaginal bleeding or incomplete abortion: Skyla intrauterine device is contraindicated absolutely in patients with undiagnosed vaginal bleeding or incomplete abortion.
Use in females before menarche
Significant hepatic disease (jaundice and hepatocellular cancers)
Cervical cancer, uterine cancer, vaginal bleeding, breast cancer, menstrual irregularity and ovarian cyst.
Women with an acquired or congenital anomaly, such as fibroids if the lead to distortion of the uterine cavity.
Diabetes mellitus, before the end of six weeks following an obstetric delivery
Cervicitis, endometritis, vaginitis,
Leukemia
Sexually transmitted infections: Skyla intrauterine device use is also contraindicated in patients with an active untreated sexually transmitted infections such as acute cervicitis or vaginitis, known gonococcal or chlamydial infection, lower genital tract infections and genital actinomycosis until the infections are controlled.
Bradycardia
Obesity
Skyla levonorgestrel intrauterine device is to be cautiously used considering patients with active thromboembolic disease or history or thromboembolic disease or thrombophlebitis.A previous intrauterine device that has not been removed.

Serious complications associated with Skyla intrauterine device use are rare, but in some cases, there are possible risks that can occur. The signs of complications that should be reported to the doctor immediately include:

Perforation is one of the complications that can occur when Skyla intrauterine device is pushed through the uterine wall during the procedure of insertion. It may also move to the other parts of the pelvic area and damage internal organs; this will require surgical intervention to remove the device.

Infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease can occur after the insertion of Skyla intrauterine device. Pelvic infection can also occur when bacteria gets into the uterus during insertion of the intrauterine device.

Expulsion is another complication where the Skyla intrauterine device slips out of the uterus. This occurs in about 3% of women and mostly during the first two months of insertion or even during the monthly period. Use of a back-up birth control method such as condoms and spermicide is deemed necessary if expulsion is suspected. Also, it must be confirmed as early as possible.

Ovarian cysts About 14% of women using Skyla are likely to develop a cyst on the ovary. These cysts usually are asymptomatic, disappear on their own in a month or two, but can cause pelvic pain and at times require surgery. Even sexual intercourse can become painful. Ovarian cysts which are persistent should be evaluated.

Her Smart Choice

Same-day appointments available
Physician available 24/7 for questions and phone consult
Minimal waiting time - under 1 hour
We answer immediately for appointments  and other questions
Low-income eligibility for free abortion pill done  within 30 minutes
Walk-in patients are welcome at all times

Planned Parenthood

Usually have to wait for 2 to 3 weeks for an appointment.
Difficult to reach any staff.
Usually takes up to 3 or 4 hours.
You need to wait 15-30 minutes to get someone  on the phone.
Patients have to spend more than 4 hours to determine they are eligible.
You need an appointment to be seen.

SKYLA IUD: Key Benefits and
Considerations for Birth Control

Visit Us at : 2226 E Cesar Chavez Ave
East Los Angeles, CA 90033

Frequently Asked Questions

How far into a pregnancy can this method be used?

According to guidelines by Food and Drug Administration of United States, these regimens are highly effective and should be used for termination of pregnancy of less than 70 days.

Is medical abortion painful?

The pain associated with medical abortion is varied but one should expect some degree of mild to moderate abdominal pain depending on their pain threshold and the gestational age of the pregnancy.

How much does a medical abortion cost?

The price of a medical abortion depends on the center where the abortion is carried out, the type of abortion that is done and the gestational age of the pregnancy.

Will my insurance cover medical abortion?

Most insurance companies do cover medical abortion but it is always important to check with your insurance provider to confirm.

What laws affect medical abortion?

Minors generally require parental consent, but it is also important to find out about abortion laws relevant to your state of residence.

What is the role of anti-D in medical abortion?

Women who are rhesus negative would need to receive this anti-D immunoglobulin after a medical abortion to prevent miscarriages in subsequent pregnancies.

What happens after taking the second tablet?

After taking the second tablet, you may feel abdominal cramps as you begin passing the products of pregnancy. You may take pain killers to relax you and allow the pill to work.

Should I take a bath after abortion?

Consult your doctor on this matter. You may be advised not to take a bath immediately. This is to prevent infection due to water entering the exposed area.

Should I do a pregnancy test after abortion?

You may choose to do so, but remember that it can take 40-60 days before the pregnancy test becomes negative. If you take a test immediately afterwards, you will still get a positive result.

What about the confidentiality of the procedure?

If you are working with qualified doctors and nurses, they will always maintain patient confidentiality. There is no need of worry about your privacy or information being leaked.

How effective medical abortion can be?

It is said that medical abortion is more effective than surgical abortion in the early pregnancy. For pregnancy of less then 7 weeks old, this method will be 98% effective. After that the effectiveness will decrease, but still remains as high as 95%.

Is it necessary to maintain the duration between two pills?

Yes. Mifepristone and methotrexate need some time for their work. Only after that the misoprostol will be effective in expulsing all the content. So you need to keep some distance between two pills.

Are there any other regimens available for medical abortion?

There are alternative regimens available, but they are used less. Sometimes a single pill is used but studies have shown that to be 70-85% less effective than the combination of 2 pills.

What pain killers can I take after medical abortion?

For mild to moderate pain, you can take Tylenol (500-1000 mg). If pain is more severe, you may take ibuprofen (200-600 mg). In extreme cases, codeine may be prescribed.

How would I know if I have pelvic infection after abortion?

If you have fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or lower abdominal pain after medical abortion, you can suspect infection. You should immediately contact a doctor as this is a dangerous condition.

What if medical abortion fails?

If medical abortion fails, it can be followed by repeat medical or surgical abortion. There are not enough evidences available to show that abortion pills can cause anomaly in embryo except for methotrexate.

Lastest News

Opening the Conversation About Sex and STDs with Your Teenager

Children experience fundamental changes in their body as they go through their teenage years. These changes have a significant impact on their physical as well as mental health. One of the most crucial changes they will go through is gaining the understanding of sexuality and sexual health.

Understanding Abortion Options and Challenges at Huntington Park

California is one of the most advanced states when it comes to abortion rights and services. It was the first state to have legalized abortion. And has since taken progressive steps for women’s reproductive rights. Abortion clinics in Huntington Park provide safe and affordable healthcare services.

SKYLA IUD: Key Benefits and
Considerations for Birth Control

Ready to discuss your options? Click the appointment button to talk to our
caring experts in a private, safe space.

IUD

SKYLA IUD: Key Benefits and
Considerations for Birth Control

18+

98%

150,000+

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

Hear from Our Patients Say

SKYLA IUD: Key Benefits and
Considerations for Birth Control

SKYLA IUD