IUDs, intrauterine devices, were developed in the early 20th century as an alternative to “interuterine devices,” which frequently caused pelvic inflammatory disease. Intrauterine devices are T-shaped devices containing copper or levonorgestrel and used as a long-acting form of reversible contraception. Pelvic inflammatory disease is a community-acquired infection of the female reproductive organs caused by a sexually transmitted disease, most commonly Neisseria gonorrhoea and Chlamydia trachomatis. PID can involve the fallopian tubes of the uterus, the ovaries, or all of these structures. Sequelae of PID include recurrent episodes of PID, infertility, chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and possible association with ovarian cancer. Although the same basic risk of pelvic inflammatory disease is still present with copper and hormonal IUDs, it is uncommon and usually gone after a month. There is little evidence that the two are directly linked outside of patients who have a pre-existing STI, but the perception of risk greatly hinders their social reception worldwide. Despite their apparent benefits, IUD use has declined sharply since 1975, from 9% to less than 2% among women in the United States. IUDs are relatively safe and convenient; Besides surgery, they are one of the most effective forms of birth prevention. Copper IUDs can be used as emergency contraception after unprotected sex. Copper and hormonal IUDs do not interfere with breastfeeding and are safe to use immediately after an abortion. The research question is twofold: what are the comparative advantages of IUD use and how valid are the reasons preventing their widespread use? The importance of this re...... middle of article ......ment Algorithms for Selection of Intrauterine Device Candidates Charles S. Morrison,* Christine Sekadde-Kigondu,† William C. Miller,‡ Debra H. Weiner,* and Samuel K. Sinei† Contraception 1999;59:97–1069) Effects of age, parity, and device type on complications and discontinuation of intrauterine devices Joelle Aoun, MD, Virginia A. Dines, BS, Dale W. Stovall, MD, Mihriye Mete, PhD, Casey B. Nelson, BA, and Veronica Gomez-Lobo, MD VOL. 123, NO. 3, MARCH 2014 OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY 585-59110) Expand access to intrauterine contraception. Allen RH1, Goldberg AB, Grimes DA. Am J Obstet Gynecol. Nov. 2009;201(5):456.e1-511) Knowledge and attitudes of adolescents and young adults towards the intrauterine device. Whitaker AK, Johnson LM, Harwood B, Chiappetta L, Creinin MD, Gold MA. September 2008;78(3):211-7. doi: 10.1016/j.contraception.2008.04.119. Online publication July 2008 3.