The IUB Ballerine: A Hormone-Free Birth Control Option
The IUB Ballerine: A Hormone-Free Birth Control Option
For women, there are more birth control options than ever before. Pills, patches, injections, implants, and intrauterine devices (IUDs) are just a few of the many to choose from. The new IUB Ballarwin (intra-uterine ball) is a new form of contraception that has everyone talking.
The IUB Ballerine is a long-term, effective, and hormone-free intrauterine device used as a form of contraception. Its design of 17 copper pearls is half the size of a traditional intrauterine device. Inserted unto the uterus the IUb works by releasing small amounts of copper for up to 5 years. In contrast to T-shaped copper IUDs, the norm in design, the IUB Ballerine is unique in shape as a small, spherical device that more organically fits into the uterine form. Its design is meant to be easier on the wearer, reduce unwanted side effects, and offer a positive alternative for women seeking birth control.
In this blog, we’ll explore what the IUB Ballerine is, how it works, its benefits and possible side effects, and who may consider it as an option.
What Is the IUB Ballerine?
The IUB Ballerine is a compact, flexible, hormone-free intrauterine contraceptive device. In contrast to the normal T-shape of the majority of copper IUDs, the Ballerine is round. It is about 15 mm in diameter when placed in the uterus and is made of shape-memory alloy (nickel and titanium) with copper beads threaded upon it.
The IUB Ballerine is placed by a skilled healthcare provider and stays inside the uterus, releasing copper ions slowly over time. This copper disrupts ovum fertilization and sperm mobility, making pregnancy highly unlikely. The IUB Ballerine is a reliable means of birth control for up to 5 years.
How the IUB Ballerine Works
The effectiveness of the Ballerine is due to two synergistic processes:
Copper Action:
Copper is spermicidal, preventing sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg. Through the continuous release of copper ions, the Ballerine makes the uterine environment unsuitable for the survival of sperm.
Uterine Environment:
The presence of the IUB Ballerine alone alters the uterine lining to make it less receptive to implantation.
Collectively, these make the Ballerine a highly reliable form of birth control, with rates of effectiveness comparable to other copper IUDs.
The Innovative Design: From T-Shaped to Spherical
Possibly the most visually striking feature of the Ballerine is its design. Although the flat, T-shaped shape of previous copper IUDs is classic, the Ballerine is a small three-dimensional sphere. Why does this matter?
A better Fit: Ball shape tends to fit more naturally to the uterine cavity shape, which varies in size and shape among women.
Reduced Irritation: As it does not have the T-shaped IUDs' pointed arms, the Ballerine can reduce the risk of poking, irritation, or pain.
Stability: The spherical shape keeps the device situated in the center of the uterus, reducing the risk of partial expulsion.
This thoughtful design makes the Ballerine appealing to women who may have had difficulty or been uncomfortable with traditional IUDs.
Insertion and Removal
The IUB Ballerine is inserted in a similar manner to other IUDs. The device is inserted using a thin insertion tube into the uterus. In place, the wire coil will expand to a spherical shape naturally.
Insertion: Usually conducted at an annual office visit. It may cramp or hurt a bit during insertion, but this will often dissipate within hours to days.
Removal: The device can be removed by any healthcare professional at any time and fertility returns almost instantly.
Benefits of the IUB Ballerine
Many women choose the IUB Ballerine because of the blending of efficacy with a less invasive procedure. Some of the primary benefits include:
Hormone-Free: For individuals who do not desire to use hormones or are unable to tolerate hormonal birth control.
-Long-Lasting Protection: Remains in place for 5 years with no monthly or daily upkeep.
-Reversible: Pregnancy returns within a matter of days after removal.
-Comfort-Focused Design: The rounded design could increase comfort and reduce side effects compared to T-shaped IUDs.
-Low Maintenance: No ongoing effort is required after insertion, such as for pills or patches.
Potential Side Effects
Like all methods of contraception, the IUB Ballerine may cause side effects. Most of these are the same as they are for other copper IUDs. These may include:
-Heavy or Longer Periods: More bleeding or cramping with menstrual periods, especially in the first few months.
-Spotting Between Periods: Irregular bleeding may occur.
-Discomfort on Insertion: Discomfort or slight cramping may be caused by and following insertion, but usually resolves.
–Expulsion: In rare occurrences, the device may be expelled partly or completely from the uterus.
-Perforation: Very rarely, the device may puncture the uterine wall at the time of insertion.
These are rare side effects, it's recommended to speak to a maud medical physician to see if the Ballerine is right for you.
Who May Consider the IUB Ballerine?
The Ballerine is suited for women who desire long-term, consistent, hormone-free contraception. It could be particularly well-suited for:
Women who have had adverse effects from hormonal birth control.
-Women who want a "set it and forget it" method.
-Those who prefer a reversible form of contraception.
-Women who do not like T-shaped IUDs.
However, it may not be the best choice in women with certain uterine anomalies, pelvic infection not treated, or menorrhagia. Women should discuss this with a medical doctor before deciding. Every body is different.
Safety and Clinical Evidence
Studies have also shown that the IUB Ballerine is safe and effective. Excellent contraceptive efficacy and good tolerability are demonstrated by clinical trials and by usual use. Some studies have shown that women are more at ease with the spherical design compared to traditional IUDs, although exceptions always exist.
The product has been used in Europe, the Middle East, and some parts of Africa, and has been gaining popularity due to its simplicity of use and effectiveness.
Expanding Contraceptive Options
The development of the IUB Ballerine also highlights the importance of innovation in women's medicine. For decades, IUDs were all the same T-shape model, not necessarily always the best for every woman's body. Rethinking this, the Ballerine opens up more options and leaves women free to choose what works best for their body.
Contraception isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are women who thrive on hormonal forms, others who prefer barriers, and others who desire long-term, hormone-free options like the Ballerine. The more devices being created like this say a lot about patient care, where women understand and have access to select a method that is suitable for their body, lifestyle, and personal needs.
Resources:
https://thelowdown.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-ballerine-iub
https://ballerine.co.za/2021/07/30/what-is-the-iub-ballerine/?v=59fd721d00ec
