IUDs are a form of birth control that is termed an LARC,
or long-acting reversible contraceptive. It is small, t-shaped, contains
hormones or copper wire, and is inserted into the uterus to prevent
pregnancy for years. Researchers at the Guttmacher Institute have
noticed a significant decrease in unintended pregnancy and believe that
the increased use of IUDs has contributed to this. While this is the
most effective type of birth control, there are side effects that often
go unrecognized. Current birth control methods may just be inadequate or
not personal enough, however, researchers are currently looking into
genomics and have identified potential enzymes and proteins that could
be targeted to prevent pregnancy in both men and women.