Copper IUD vs Mirena: Finding the Best Option
IUDs offer hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptive options for long-term pregnancy prevention.
According to a 2019 report from the United Nations, 159 million women worldwide use IUDs.
Out of all, two of the most common and competent IUDs are copper IUD and Mirena.
Their benefits and side effects outweigh each other in different aspects, making it difficult to choose between them.
This article presents a detailed overview of their effectiveness, benefits, and side effects through a comparison of copper IUD vs Mirena comparison to help pick the right one.
Copper IUD vs Mirena Overview
| Factors | Copper IUD | Mirena |
|---|---|---|
Type of birth control | Non-hormonal birth control | Hormonal birth control |
| Working | Makes use of copper to produce an inflammatory reaction to prevent pregnancy | Releases Progestin to thicken cervical mucus and thins uterine lining to prevent pregnancy |
| Effectiveness | Copper IUDs are 99.2 percent effective | Hormonal IUDs like Mirena are 99.8 percent effective in preventing pregnancy |
| How long it lasts | They last from 5-10 years, depending upon the brand | Mirena works for up to 8 years |
| Suitability | It is suitable for all women, including adolescents and women over 40 | Mirena is recommended for women who have birthed at least one child |
| Side effects | It can cause heavy periods, pain, and spotting in between periods | It can cause pelvic pain, weight gain, breast tenderness, mood changes, or even Depression. |
Mirena vs Copper IUD
Copper IUD, such as Paragard, is a non-hormonal birth control option that is fitted inside the uterus for long-term pregnancy prevention.
Its copper wire produces an inflammatory reaction, which is toxic to both egg and sperm.
This process prevents fertilization and, hence, conception.
On the other hand, Mirena is a hormonal IUD that releases the synthetic hormone called Progestin.
It works by thickening the cervical mucus, preventing sperm from reaching the egg.
Moreover, it thins the uterine lining, making it unsuitable for embryo implantation.
How long do they last
Both Copper IUD and Mirena offer long-term and reversible pregnancy protection.
Copper IUDs can last from 5 to 10 years, depending on the brand.
Paragard can last for up to 10 years effectively.
In contrast, Mirena lasts for a shorter period of up to 8 years.
Copper IUD vs Mirena effectiveness
Both copper IUD and Mirena are over 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy, with a slight difference.
A copper IUD is 99.2 percent effective, while Mirena is 99.8 percent effective.
So, the risk of conceiving while using any of the two is very low.
Additionally, Mirena is also effective in treating heavy menstrual bleeding for 5 years.
Copper IUD and Mirena as emergency contraceptive
Both copper IUD and Mirena work as an emergency contraceptive.
These must be inserted within 5 days of unprotected intercourse for use as an emergency contraceptive.
They are more than 99.9 percent effective as emergency contraceptives when used on time.
Copper IUD vs Mirena suitability for women
Any female can use a copper IUD, be it an adolescent or a woman aged over 40.
Even women with abortions, miscarriages, anemia, or those who are breastfeeding can use copper IUDs.
On the other hand, Mirena is recommended for women with at least one child.
In case of pain, discomfort, or abnormal-smelling vaginal discharge, one must immediately reach out to a doctor for treatment.
Size difference
ParaGard (copper IUD) is a T-shaped frame that is 32 mm wide and 36mm high
It is made of polyethylene (plastic) and has approximately 176mg copper coiled along the vertical stem.
It has a 68.7mg copper collar on each side of the horizontal arm.
Mirena is also almost similar in size with a T-shaped frame, 32 mm wide and high.
It is also composed of polyethylene and has a Levonorgestrel-containing reservoir in the vertical stem that holds 52 mg of Levonorgestrel.
Copper IUD vs Mirena side effects
The biggest side effect of copper IUD is heavy periods and spotting in between periods.
Alongside this, it can cause pain and discomfort.
In contrast, Mirena is used to treat heavy periods, making them lighter and relieving pain.
Although, for some initial months, periods can be irregular or heavy, with time, Mirena reduces the bleeding.
When it comes to hormonal side effects, Copper IUD is a safe option as it is a non-hormonal method.
On the other hand, Mirena causes many such side effects, which include headache, weight gain, Depression, Acne, and breast tenderness.
How to choose?
Choosing the right IUD depends upon the needs and goals.
One can opt for a copper IUD if:
- Seeking a non-hormonal method or have medical issues with hormonal birth control
- An adolescent or woman with no children
- Wants longer-lasting protection with lesser hormonal side effects
One can go for Mirena if:
- Suffering from heavy and painful periods
- Looking for a hormonal birth control with long-term protection
It is best to consult a doctor for a personalized opinion on which option is better for you.
Conclusion
Both copper IUD and Mirena are effective in preventing pregnancy by 99 percent.
A copper IUD is a non-hormonal method that lasts for 10 years and is suitable for any female.
It has no hormonal side effects like acne, headache, etc.
However, it can cause heavy periods, cramping, or spotting between periods.
On the other hand, Mirena is a hormonal IUD that lasts about 8 years and is recommended for women with at least one child.
They offer additional benefits like lighter periods and less cramping but may have side effects like weight gain or Depression.
A woman can choose her ideal IUD depending on the time period, and preference for hormonal or non-hormonal birth control.
Considering the side effects and consulting a doctor before choosing can make a big and positive difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between copper IUD and hormonal IUD?
Copper IUD is a non-hormonal contraceptive that prevents pregnancy by an inflammatory response that is toxic to egg and sperm. In contrast, Mirena is a hormonal contraceptive that releases Progestin to thicken cervical mucus and thinning uterine lining to prevent embryo implantation.
Which is better Mirena or copper?
Copper IUD is a non-hormonal birth control that offers pregnancy prevention for 10 years with 99 percent efficiency. On the other hand, Mirena is a hormonal IUD that offers protection for up to 8 years but also provides benefits like lighter periods.
What is the biggest difference between a copper and a hormonal IUD?
The biggest difference between Copper IUD and Mirena is that Copper IUD is a non-hormonal contraceptive, whereas Mirena is a hormonal alternative. Copper IUD uses copper to prevent pregnancy via a toxic inflammatory response, while Mirena releases Progestin to prevent pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus and thinning uterine lining.
Does copper IUD or Mirena have more side effects?
Copper IUD can cause heavier periods and pain in contrast to Mirena, which makes periods lighter. However, when it comes to hormonal side effects, copper IUD is safer as Mirena can cause acne, weight gain, Depression, headache, and breast tenderness.
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