How soon does an IUD become effective after you get it?

<p>The non-hormonal IUD is effective immediately after it&rsquo;s inserted. The hormonal IUD is effective immediately <em>if</em> you get it inserted within 7 days of the start of your period. Otherwise it takes a little longer to become effective, so you should use a back-up method, such as <a href="/method-explorer/condom/basic-info">condoms</a> or <a href="/method-explorer/internal-condom/basic-info">internal condoms</a>, for 7 days after insertion. </p>