This is a picture of IUDs better know as contraceptive coils. The letters IUD stand for "intrauterine device." When placed inside a woman's uterus, an IUD helps prevent pregnancy. There are several types of IUD and they come in different sizes. IUDs are small devices made of flexible plastic that contain copper or hormone. IUDs are available by prescription only and a doctor decides which is the right type for each woman and inserts it in her uterus. Once inserted, the IUD is immediately effective against pregnancy. If there is a risk of you contracting STDs and HIV/AIDS, you should also use condoms. More about HIV prevention can be found at http://www.avert.org/hivprevention.htm

This photo is part of a larger HIV and AIDS picture gallery. For more HIV and AIDS photos visit www.avert.org/historyi.htm

Please note, that this IUD/ coil picture is copyrighted. If you wish to use it or any part of it on your site, or in any other way, please ask permission from the copyright holder. The contact details of the copyright holders can be found here.

Photo credit: � David Alexander/ M/MC Photoshare