Deciding on intrauterine device selection requires consideration of multiple factors beyond contraceptive efficacy. Device frame dimensions relative to uterine cavity size, differences in bleeding and pain profiles between copper and levonorgestrel-releasing devices, rates of mechanical complications, and patient-specific anatomic factors are not often adequately addressed during contraceptive counseling despite their influence on device tolerance and continuation. In this narrative review, multiple search strategies were used to examine published literature on commercially available intrauterine contraceptive devices in the United States, focusing on device size compatibility with uterine dimensions, complication rates (perforation, expulsion, malposition, embedment, and fracture), side effect profiles, pain during insertion, cancer risk, and emergency contraception use. Clinical data are provided which may be useful to present for patient counseling regarding their intrauterine contraceptive choices, given that potential long-term consequences are known to exist. 
Though our collective knowledge on this subject continues to expand, there exists an abundance of information from the past use of available options for these long-acting reversible contraceptive methods, with the convenience and ease of use from which patients can benefit.

Contraception, Hormonal contraception, Copper IUD, Levonorgestrel IUD, Cancer risk, Uterine size, Emergency contraception