Which of the following is a hormone-releasing IUD?
(c) LNG-20
Understanding Hormone Releasing IUDs
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) are a type of long-acting reversible contraception placed inside the uterus. They are effective methods of preventing pregnancy. IUDs come in different types, broadly classified into non-medicated IUDs, copper-releasing IUDs, and hormone-releasing IUDs.
Types of IUDs
- Non-medicated IUDs: These are the earliest types, made of plastic or stainless steel. They are less common now.
- Copper-releasing IUDs: These IUDs release copper ions into the uterus. Copper ions increase phagocytosis of spermatozoa within the uterus and suppress sperm motility and fertilizing capacity. They also make the uterine environment unsuitable for implantation. Examples include CuT, Cu7, Multiload 375, etc.
- Hormone-releasing IUDs: These IUDs release progestogen hormones (like Levonorgestrel) into the uterus. The hormone makes the cervical mucus thick and hostile to sperm entry. It also inhibits ovulation in some cases and makes the endometrium unsuitable for implantation.
Analyzing the Options
Let's look at the given options to identify the hormone-releasing IUD:
- CuT: This is a T-shaped device that releases copper. It is a copper-releasing IUD, not a hormone-releasing one.
- Cu7: This is a copper-releasing IUD with a shape designed for better retention in some uteruses. It releases copper, not hormones.
- LNG-20: This designation typically refers to an IUD that releases 20 micrograms of Levonorgestrel (LNG) per day. Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestogen hormone. Therefore, LNG-20 is a hormone-releasing IUD.
- Multiload 375: This is a Multiload device that releases copper (375 mm² surface area of copper wire). It is a copper-releasing IUD.
Based on the analysis, LNG-20 is the IUD that releases hormones.
| Type of IUD | Mechanism of Action | Examples from Options |
|---|---|---|
| Copper-releasing IUD | Releases copper ions; affects sperm, makes uterus unsuitable for implantation. | CuT, Cu7, Multiload 375 |
| Hormone-releasing IUD | Releases progestogen (e.g., Levonorgestrel); thickens cervical mucus, affects endometrium, may inhibit ovulation. | LNG-20 |
Revision Table: IUD Types and Examples
| IUD Type | Example(s) |
|---|---|
| Copper-releasing | CuT, Cu7, Multiload 375, NovaT |
| Hormone-releasing (Progestogen) | LNG-20 (Mirena, Liletta), Skyla, Kyleena |
| Non-medicated | Lippes Loop (historical) |
Additional Information: Mechanism of Action of IUDs
The way IUDs prevent pregnancy varies slightly depending on whether they release copper or hormones.
- Copper IUDs: Their primary effect is spermicidal. Copper ions are toxic to sperm, reducing their motility and ability to fertilize the egg. They also cause a sterile inflammatory reaction in the uterus, which prevents implantation if fertilization were to occur.
- Hormone IUDs (Progestogen-releasing): These devices release a small amount of progestogen daily. The main effects include:
- Thickening of the cervical mucus, creating a barrier that prevents sperm from entering the uterus.
- Thinning the lining of the uterus (endometrium), making it unfavorable for implantation.
- In some individuals, they may also suppress ovulation, though this is not the primary mechanism for all hormone-releasing IUDs.
Both types of IUDs are highly effective and long-lasting contraceptive methods.
Important Questions from Reproductive Health
Match List-I with List-II:
List-I (Various Assisted Reproductive Technologies)
List-II (Process Involved)
List-I List-II (A) ZIFT (I) Formation of embryo in vitro by injecting sperm directly into ovum (B) ICSI (II) Transferring of embryo with more than 8 blastomeres into the uterus (C) IUI (III) Transferring of fertilised egg up to 8 blastomeres into the fallopian tube (D) IUT (IV) Transfer of semen from a healthy donor into the uterus artificially Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Which of the following methods of contraception is not meant for females?
‘Saheli’ – an oral contraceptive pill, also known as the ‘Once a week’ pill, was developed by:
Which is not a type of sexually transmitted infection?
Identify the common Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs):
