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When does pregnancy protection begin after an IUD is inserted?

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Blister pack of 28 oral contraceptive pills arranged in four rows, with 21 white active pills followed by 7 orange inactive pills. Arrows indicate the order for taking pills. — birth control A 28-day package of birth control pills.

The timing for when pregnancy protection begins after an intrauterine device (IUD) is inserted depends on the type of device used:

Copper IUDs: Protection against pregnancy begins immediately following insertion.1
Hormonal IUDs: Protection generally begins within about a week after insertion. However, if a hormonal IUD is inserted within seven days of the start of menstruation, it may provide immediate protection.1

Because effectiveness can vary based on the specific product and individual circumstances, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider regarding the appropriate use of birth control following your procedure.1