ABFM Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive Prep Resource

When an intrauterine device (IUD) is inserted within 7 days after the start of menstrual bleeding, it is considered to be inserted during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. At this time, a woman is typically not fertile, which means that the likelihood of conception is very low. The hormones and physiological changes associated with the menstrual cycle create conditions that are not conducive to pregnancy. Therefore, the IUD will provide immediate contraceptive protection once it is implanted, and there is no need for backup contraception.

The guidance on backup contraception is based on understanding the timing of the menstrual cycle and the effective mechanism of the IUD. When an IUD is placed outside of this window, additional contraceptive measures may be recommended because the risk of ovulation and potential fertilization would be higher, which is not the case when the IUD is inserted promptly within the first week of menstruation.