Couples considering birth control have many safe and effective options. The use of IUDs as birth control has been increasing recently. But many women still have a lot of questions about their safety and possible side effects. An intrauterine device (IUD) is a type of birth control that is inserted into your uterus. It is a small, flexible piece of plastic with a string on the end. It is inserted and removed by your caregiver. IUDs prevent sperm from reaching or fertilizing an egg. IUDs also prevent a fertilized egg from attaching to the uterus and developing into a fetus.Listen in as Sara Ackermann, DO explains the advantages of an IUD and how to choose the birth control method that's right for you.