Final answer:
The main disadvantage of intrauterine devices (IUDs) is the increased risk of infections, especially around the time of insertion. IUDs are very effective for contraception, but they come with certain risks and potential side effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question about the disadvantage of intrauterine devices (IUDs) is a. Increased risk of infections. Although IUDs are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, with failure rates less than one percent, there are potential risks and disadvantages associated with their use. One known risk is the potential for increased risk of infections, which can occur particularly around the time of IUD insertion.
IUDs, which may contain copper or a hormone, are inserted into the uterus by a physician to provide long-term contraception. They work by preventing sperm from reaching an egg or interfering with the implantation of a fertilized egg. The discomfort during the insertion process is often brief, and while some users may experience increased menstrual bleeding and more painful menstrual cramps, these are not the primary disadvantages being asked about in the question. It is important to have a healthcare professional involved not only for the placement but also for the removal of an IUD.