January 15, 2017 Liza Swedarsky, MD FacebookTwitterPinterestAn intrauterine device (IUD) is a T-Shaped contraceptive device placed inside the uterus. The procedure is performed in the office. There are several types of IUD’s: Paraguard IUD (Copper, hormone free) Mirena IUD (releases progesterone to the uterine lining daily) Skyla (releases progesterone to the uterine lining daily) Liletta (releases progesterone to the uterine lining daily) The paraguard lasts for 10 years and the Mirena for five years. They skyla and liletta are both effective for three years. All can be removed prior if pregnancy is desired sooner. All are long-term forms of reversible contraception. Not all patients are optimal candidates for IUD placement; this will be determined at your visit.