Is it Possible to Get Pregnant With Copper IUD?
The copper Intrauterine device (IUD) is a highly effective form of contraception.
It’s a small, T-shaped device with copper that is placed inside the uterus.
If a person gets pregnant with a copper IUD (ParaGrad) in place, there is a higher chance of experiencing an Ectopic pregnancy.
It’s important to know the pros and cons of using a copper IUD for contraception and seek medical help if pregnancy is suspected.
In this article, we will learn the risks and concerns associated with getting pregnant with copper IUD, as well as their effectiveness.
Can you get pregnant with a copper IUD
Yes, it’s possible but rare to get pregnant with a copper IUD in place.
While the copper IUD is highly effective, there’s a minimal chance of pregnancy, with an increased risk of Ectopic pregnancy in the rare event of conception.
If a woman becomes pregnant with an IUD in place, she may experience symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, a missed period, etc.
Additionally, she may notice that the IUD strings are out of place, missing, or uneven.
If a woman with an IUD thinks she’s pregnant and has symptoms, seek immediate medical help to check pregnancy and IUD placement, discussing the best steps forward.
Effectiveness of copper IUDs
Copper IUD (ParaGard) is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
The effectiveness of the copper IUD remains consistent irrespective of body mass index (BMI) and does not vary.
However, there is a slight possibility of pregnancy while using this contraceptive method.
Once inserted, they work continuously without requiring any additional effort on your part.
Side effects are generally mild and may subside over time, and the copper IUD is a long-lasting, non-hormonal birth control method.
Copper IUDs function as emergency contraception
The primary way the copper IUD functions as emergency contraception is by inhibiting fertilization, achieved through the impact of copper ions on sperm function.
Copper ions are toxic to sperm and the ovum, altering their motility and function and causing alterations in the uterus and oviducts, which prevents fertilization.
When inserted after ovulation, it usually prevents implantation.
The copper IUD can serve as emergency contraception when inserted within 120 hours (5 days) following unprotected intercourse.
It is the most effective form of emergency contraception available, with a pregnancy rate of less than 0.1%.
Therefore, the copper IUD is a reliable and long-term contraceptive option for individuals seeking effective birth control without hormones.
How long does it take to get pregnant after copper iud removal
According to various sources, pregnancy can occur immediately after the removal of a copper IUD, and the return of fertility is not affected by the removal procedure.
The average time it takes for young, healthy women to get pregnant after IUD removal is 4.4 months, and 97% of women in a study became pregnant within 1.5 years after IUD removal.
If you’re planning to get pregnant after removing your IUD and have fertility concerns, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider.
surface area of 380 mm2 have the lowest failure rates among copper-containing IUDs, with an annual failure rate of 0.8% and a total cumulative failure rate over 12 years at 2.2%.
Pregnant with copper iud symptoms
The symptoms of pregnancy with a copper IUD may include:
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Missed period
- Tender breasts
- Cravings
- Mood changes
- Unusual or abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Feeling the hard, plastic part of the IUD against the cervix
- Increased risk of Ectopic pregnancy
If a woman experiences these symptoms and suspects she may be pregnant with a copper IUD in place, it is important to seek immediate medical attention
Risks of pregnancy with copper IUD
The risks of pregnancy with a copper IUD in place are relatively low, but they do exist.
The following are some of the risks associated with pregnancy while using a copper IUD:
- Ectopic pregnancy risk: Getting pregnant with a copper IUD raises the chances of Ectopic pregnancy, wherein the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube. This poses a potential threat to life
- Contraceptive failure: While copper IUDs are highly effective, a minimal chance of pregnancy exists, with the highest risk in the first year (less than 1% failure rate). This risk decreases over time
- Adverse pregnancy outcomes: There’s an elevated risk of adverse outcomes like spontaneous abortion, preterm delivery, and complications. However, the absolute risk remains relatively low
Conclusion
The copper IUD emerges as a highly effective contraceptive with over 99% success in preventing pregnancy.
Despite its effectiveness, a slight chance of pregnancy exists, with an increased risk of Ectopic pregnancy, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
The device’s mechanism involves toxic copper ions inhibiting sperm and ovum function, making it a reliable emergency contraception option.
Pregnancy post-IUD removal is possible, with variations in conception time influenced by individual factors.
While the risks of adverse outcomes are relatively low, the importance of consulting a healthcare provider for fertility concerns cannot be overstated.
The copper IUD stands as a valuable long-term contraceptive, providing effective birth control without hormonal influence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pregnancy possible with a copper IUD?
Pregnancy with a copper IUD is highly unlikely, given its over 99% effectiveness. If it occurs, there’s an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo settles in the fallopian tubes, posing potential complications.
Why do people get pregnant on copper IUDs?
While highly unlikely, pregnancy with a copper IUD may occur if it dislodges or expels from the uterus, a rare event. Incorrect insertion is another rare factor that could reduce its effectiveness.
What are the signs of pregnancy with IUD?
Although rare, pregnancy with a copper IUD is possible. If you suspect it, seek medical attention promptly to rule out pregnancy, particularly ectopic. Signs include missed periods, nausea, headaches, sore breasts, fatigue, and mild cramps.
Can IUDs lead to weight gain?
No, the copper IUD (Paragard) doesn’t cause weight gain. Being hormone-free, it has minimal side effects. While some may experience increased cramping and longer periods initially, weight gain is not associated with the copper IUD.
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