What is the difference between the two IUD’s?

There are currently two FDA IUD’s (intrauterine devices) on the market. Both are considered as effective as a tubal ligation, however, they are reversible and placed in the office with no surgery required. The Mirena is a 5 year IUD, it contains a hormone called Levonegestrol. In addition to protecting against pregnancy, the Levonegestrol also thins out the inside lining of the uterus also known as the endometrium. With a thinner endometrium, 90% of women state that they have a significant decrease in menstrual blood flow. The other IUD is called a Paragard. It is FDA approved for 10 years. It is a copper IUD, and has no hormones in it. It can however, cause an increase in menstrual blood flow.