Contraception in Grand Rapids, MI: Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are one of the most effective and convenient forms of birth control available in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Many local OB/GYN practices and health systems — including Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health — offer IUD counseling, insertion, and follow‑up care.

This guide explains how IUDs work, the types available in the U.S., benefits and side effects, and where to access IUD services in the Grand Rapids area.

What Is an Intrauterine Device (IUD)?

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T‑shaped contraceptive device that is placed inside the uterus (womb) to prevent pregnancy.

IUDs are considered long‑acting reversible contraception (LARC) because:

  • They work for several years once inserted.
  • They can be removed at any time if you want to get pregnant or switch methods.
  • Fertility returns quickly after removal.

Both copper and hormonal IUDs are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when correctly placed.

Types of IUDs Available in the U.S.

There are two main types of IUDs available through Grand Rapids healthcare providers:

1. Hormonal IUDs (Mirena™ and Kyleena™)

Hormonal IUDs are small plastic T‑shaped devices that slowly release a hormone called progestin (similar to the natural hormone progesterone produced by your ovaries).

Common brands in the U.S. include:

  • Mirena™
  • Kyleena™ – a lower‑dose version of Mirena™

Typical duration of use:

  • Mirena™: up to 5–8 years (check current FDA guidance with your provider)
  • Kyleena™: up to 5 years

2. Copper IUD (Non‑Hormonal)

The copper IUD is a small plastic T‑shaped device wrapped with copper wire. It:

  • Contains no hormones
  • Continuously releases a small amount of copper into the uterus
  • Can stay in place for up to 10 years

Because it does not contain hormones, the copper IUD is a good option for people in Grand Rapids who prefer or need non‑hormonal contraception.

How Do IUDs Work?

Hormonal IUD

Hormonal IUDs prevent pregnancy by:

  • Thickening cervical mucus so sperm have difficulty reaching the egg
  • Thinning the lining of the uterus
  • Sometimes preventing ovulation (depending on the person)

Copper IUD

The copper IUD:

  • Releases copper, which is toxic to sperm
  • Prevents sperm from moving effectively and fertilizing an egg
  • Alters the uterine environment to prevent implantation

IUD Effectiveness

Both copper and hormonal IUDs are:

  • More than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy
  • Among the most reliable birth control options available

You do not need to remember a daily pill, patch, or ring. Once inserted, you simply check the strings monthly and attend follow‑up visits as advised by your provider.

IUD Insertion in Grand Rapids, MI

Where to Get an IUD

In Grand Rapids, IUDs are typically available through:

  • OB/GYN clinics at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health
  • Family medicine clinics
  • Planned Parenthood and other sexual/reproductive health clinics
  • Community health centers supported by the Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health

The Process

  1. Consultation

    • A doctor, nurse practitioner, or midwife reviews your medical history, discusses your options, and confirms that an IUD is suitable for you.
    • They may perform a pelvic exam and, if needed, test for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

  2. Prescription and Device Pickup

    • For hormonal IUDs, your provider will write a prescription, which you fill at a pharmacy.
    • Some clinics may stock IUDs on site and place them during the same visit.

  3. Insertion Procedure

    • The IUD is inserted into the uterus through the cervix by a trained clinician.
    • The procedure usually takes just a few minutes.
    • You may feel cramping or discomfort, similar to strong menstrual cramps.

  4. Strings (Threads)

    • A fine nylon thread is attached to the IUD and extends slightly through the cervix into the top of the vagina.
    • You cannot see the threads from the outside, but you can feel them high up inside your vagina.
    • Your partner usually does not feel the strings, or may feel them very slightly at first.

  5. Follow‑Up

    • You may be asked to return for a follow‑up visit (often after 4–6 weeks) to ensure the IUD is in the correct position.

Checking Your IUD

  • After each period (or once a month if you don’t have regular periods), gently feel high inside your vagina for the thin strings.
  • If you cannot feel the strings, feel plastic, or notice a change in length, contact your Grand Rapids healthcare provider.
  • Do not attempt to remove the IUD yourself.

How Long Does an IUD Last?

  • Hormonal IUDs (Mirena™, Kyleena™): up to 5 years (Mirena may be approved for longer; confirm with your provider)
  • Copper IUD: up to 10 years

Always:

  • Record the insertion date.
  • Ask your provider for the recommended removal date.
  • Schedule a removal/replacement before it expires.

Cost of IUDs in Grand Rapids, MI

Costs can vary depending on:

  • Your insurance (private, Medicaid, employer plans)
  • The clinic (hospital system, private OB/GYN, community clinic)

Typical cost components:

  • The IUD device (hormonal or copper)
  • Insertion procedure
  • Possible follow‑up visits

In many cases:

  • Insurance plans, including Medicaid, often cover all or most of the cost of both the device and insertion.
  • Some community clinics and Planned Parenthood locations offer sliding‑scale fees or reduced‑cost services for those without insurance.

Check with:

  • Your insurance provider
  • Local clinics at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health
  • Kent County Health Department or Grand Rapids Public Health for low‑cost options

Advantages of IUDs

General Advantages (Both Types)

  • More than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy
  • Long‑acting (5–10 years, depending on type)
  • Reversible — fertility returns quickly after removal
  • Convenient — once inserted, no daily action required
  • Safe to use while breastfeeding
  • Good option if you cannot use estrogen (for example, if you can’t take the combined pill or vaginal ring)
  • No medication interactions — other medications do not reduce IUD effectiveness
  • Discreet — nothing visible from outside the body

Advantages of the Hormonal IUD

  • Many users have lighter periods or no periods at all after several months
  • Periods often become less painful
  • May help with heavy menstrual bleeding and conditions like endometriosis (ask your provider)
  • Has not been shown to cause weight gain

By about 6 months, 90–95% of users experience either a light regular period or no bleeding, which is not harmful to the body.

Advantages of the Copper IUD

  • Hormone‑free — ideal if you prefer or need non‑hormonal contraception
  • Lasts up to 10 years
  • Your natural menstrual cycle and hormone patterns are preserved
  • Can be used as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex
  • Very effective emergency option compared to the “morning‑after pill”

Possible Side Effects of IUDs

During and Shortly After Insertion

  • Cramping similar to menstrual cramps
  • Mild spotting or light bleeding for a few days
  • These usually improve within a few days to a week

Hormonal IUD Side Effects

In the first few months, you might notice:

  • Spotting or irregular bleeding
  • Breast tenderness
  • Headaches
  • Mild skin changes or mood changes

Bleeding changes:

  • Spotting or frequent bleeding is common in the first 3–6 months.
  • By 6 months, most people have light periods or no bleeding.

These side effects almost always settle with time. If they don’t, or if they are severe, talk with your Grand Rapids provider.

Importantly:

  • The hormonal IUD has not been shown to cause weight gain in clinical studies.

Copper IUD Side Effects

Common issues, especially in the first 3 months:

  • Heavier or longer periods
  • More menstrual cramping
  • Spotting between periods

These symptoms often improve after the first few cycles. If you already have very heavy periods, low iron, or severe cramps, discuss this with your provider before choosing a copper IUD.

Potential Health Risks (Less Common)

While IUDs are generally very safe, there are some rare risks:

Expulsion (IUD Coming Out)

  • Sometimes the IUD can partially or completely come out of the uterus.
  • This is more common in the first 3 months after insertion.
  • If you notice longer strings, feel the plastic part, or the IUD comes out, use backup contraception (like condoms) and contact your provider.

Perforation (Very Rare)

  • In about 1 in 500 insertions, a small hole can be made in the wall of the uterus when the IUD is placed.
  • The IUD can move through this hole and sit in the wrong place.
  • If this happens, keyhole surgery (laparoscopy) may be needed to remove it.
  • This risk is higher if you are breastfeeding or had a baby recently; your provider will discuss this with you.

Infection

  • Around 1 in 300 people may develop a pelvic infection soon after insertion.
  • This is usually related to an existing untreated STI at the time of insertion.
  • Infection can be successfully treated with antibiotics.
  • In Grand Rapids, STI screening is readily available through local clinics, Planned Parenthood, and Kent County Health Department.

Pregnancy With an IUD

Pregnancy is very unlikely, but if it occurs:

  • There is a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy in the fallopian tubes).
  • Seek urgent medical care if you have:
    • Positive pregnancy test with an IUD in place
    • Severe lower abdominal pain
    • Shoulder pain
    • Dizziness or fainting

If you become pregnant with an IUD:

  • See a doctor or nurse as soon as possible.
  • The IUD should usually be removed.
  • Your provider will:
    • Rule out ectopic pregnancy
    • Discuss options to continue or terminate the pregnancy
  • If the IUD is not removed and you continue the pregnancy, there is a higher risk of miscarriage or preterm birth.

When an IUD May Not Be Suitable

An IUD might not be recommended if you have:

  • A uterus that is not the usual shape (certain uterine abnormalities)
  • A current pelvic infection
  • Unexplained vaginal bleeding
  • Some types of untreated cervical or uterine cancer

The hormonal IUD may not be suitable if you have:

  • Current or past breast cancer
  • Severe liver disease

The copper IUD may not be suitable if you have:

  • Very heavy periods
  • Low iron levels (anemia)
  • Certain types of endometriosis

Your Grand Rapids provider will review your medical history and help you choose the safest and most effective method.

Using an IUD After Having a Baby

  • An IUD can be inserted within 2 days after birth, or
  • If not placed immediately, you should wait at least 4 weeks postpartum.
  • IUDs are safe while breastfeeding.
  • Discuss timing with your OB/GYN or midwife at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health.

Fertility After IUD Removal

  • An IUD can be removed at any time by a trained doctor or nurse.
  • Removal is usually quick and less uncomfortable than insertion.
  • Once the IUD is removed, your fertility returns quickly.
  • Most people can try to conceive right away if they wish.

IUDs and STIs

  • Neither hormonal nor copper IUDs protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • To reduce your risk of STIs, use barrier methods such as:
    • External (male) condoms
    • Internal (female) condoms
  • In Grand Rapids, STI testing and treatment are available through:
    • Local hospital systems
    • Planned Parenthood
    • Kent County Health Department
    • Community health clinics

Practicing safer sex is especially important if you have new or multiple partners.

Local Considerations in Grand Rapids, MI

Living in West Michigan, including Grand Rapids, comes with some specific health considerations:

  • Seasonal changes: Long, cold winters and shorter daylight hours can affect mood and activity levels. If cramping or discomfort from an IUD keeps you from being active during icy or snowy months, talk with your provider about pain management strategies.
  • Access to care: Despite winter weather or lake‑effect snow, many clinics offer telehealth visits for counseling about contraception and follow‑up discussions.
  • Diverse community: Grand Rapids has a growing, diverse population. Many clinics offer interpreter services or patient education materials in multiple languages.

Ask your provider if they have written information in your preferred language or can connect you with translation services.

Choosing the Right Contraception for You

An IUD is just one option. Other methods available in Grand Rapids include:

  • Contraceptive implant
  • Contraceptive injection
  • Vaginal ring
  • Combined oral contraceptive pill (“the pill”)
  • Progestin‑only pill
  • Condoms and other barrier methods

A doctor or nurse can help you compare:

  • How well each method works
  • Benefits and risks
  • Side effects
  • How easy it is to use
  • Cost and insurance coverage
  • How it fits your current and future plans (including pregnancy plans)

Where to Get Help in Grand Rapids, Michigan

For information about IUDs, contraception, and sexual health in Grand Rapids, you can contact:

  • Your primary care provider or OB/GYN
    Clinics within:

    • Spectrum Health
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Metro Health
    • Mercy Health

  • Kent County Health Department
    Offers sexual and reproductive health services, STI testing, and referrals.
    Search: “Kent County Health Department family planning Grand Rapids MI”

  • Grand Rapids Public Health / Community Health Centers
    Some offer low‑cost or sliding‑scale reproductive health services.

  • Planned Parenthood (West Michigan region)
    Provides IUD counseling, insertion, and removal, plus STI testing and other reproductive health services.

  • Local Youth‑Friendly and College Health Services
    Many high schools and colleges in the Grand Rapids area have access to counselors, nurses, or on‑site/partner clinics that can provide confidential contraception information and referrals.

If you are unsure where to start, call your primary care provider or the Kent County Health Department, and ask for information on IUD services and low‑cost contraception in Grand Rapids.

Key Points About IUDs

  • IUDs are long‑acting reversible contraception (LARC) that work for 5–10 years, depending on the type.
  • The IUD has a small thread that sits high in the vagina; you can feel it, but it cannot be seen.
  • Spotting or frequent bleeding is common in the first 3–6 months, especially with hormonal IUDs.
  • With hormonal IUDs, most users eventually have light periods or no periods, and this is not harmful.
  • The hormonal IUD has not been shown to cause weight gain.
  • IUDs are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
  • IUDs do not protect against STIs — condoms are still important for STI prevention.

If you live in Grand Rapids, MI and are considering an IUD, schedule an appointment with a local healthcare provider to discuss whether a copper or hormonal IUD is the best choice for you.