The Copper IUD is a highly effective and long-term contraceptive option for individuals seeking reliable pregnancy prevention without hormonal side effects. 

The IUD consists of a plastic frame with a fine copper wire and is inserted into the uterus by a trained healthcare professional. 

Copper IUD has become increasingly popular due to its ability to prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years.

This article examines the working mechanism, effectiveness, advantages, disadvantages, and the process of obtaining and removing the copper IUD.

How does the Copper IUD work

The copper IUD works through multiple mechanisms to prevent pregnancy:

  • Toxicity: The copper is toxic to both sperm and eggs, inhibiting the fertilization process
  • Sperm transport: It slows down the transport of the egg, reducing the chances of sperm and egg meeting
  • Uterine lining changes: The IUD alters the lining of the uterus, making it difficult to support a fertilized egg
Fact:
According to a study, the use of copper IUDs among women aged 18-49 years was 4.7%. 

Who can use the Copper IUD

Strings too short
Copper IUD

The copper IUD is suitable for those who:

  • Have or have not had children: Both Nulliparous (haven’t had children) and Parous (have had children) women can use copper IUDs
  • Are married or are not married: Marital status does not affect the eligibility for using a copper IUD
  • Are of any age:  This includes adolescents and women above 40 years
  • Have just had an abortion or miscarriage: Women who have recently had an abortion or miscarriage and do not have evidence of infection can use copper IUDs
  • Are breastfeeding: Copper IUDs are generally considered safe for breastfeeding women.

Considerations before using copper IUD

Copper IUD is not suitable for everyone to use, and individuals should consider the following conditions before copper IUD use:

  • If there is a potential pregnancy
  • Recent Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) infection
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding
  • Avoid the copper IUD if you have Wilson’s disease or if you are allergic to copper
  • Discuss with your doctor if you have anemia (not enough iron in your blood)
  • Talk to your doctor if you have fibroids or other conditions that change the shape of your uterus
  • Cervical or Uterine cancer

Benefits of Copper IUD

Copper IUD or ParaGard provides a range of benefits, making it a suitable choice for many women seeking long-term contraception. 

Some of its advantages include:

  • High effectiveness (99.5%)
  • Long-term protection for 10 years
  • ParaGard does not involve hormones, making it an ideal choice for women who may be sensitive to hormonal changes 
  • Quick return to normal fertility upon removal
  • It can be used as an emergency contraception within 5 days of unprotected sex 
  • ParaGard can be safely used while breastfeeding, offering postpartum women a viable option for contraception

Risks associated with Copper IUD

The copper IUD, despite being an effective form of contraception, comes with its own set of risks and side effects. 

Here are the risks associated with the copper IUD:

  • Pregnancy risk: Less than 1 percent of women using ParaGard will get pregnant in the first year of typical use
Recommended Article
To know more about pregnancy with copper IUD, read Is it Possible to Get Pregnant With Copper IUD?
  • Ectopic pregnancy: Conceiving while using ParaGard can lead to ectopic pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy is where the fetus is outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. 

  • No protection against STIs: ParaGard does not offer protection from Sexually Transmitted Infections. It is important to use other contraceptive methods, such as condoms, if protection against STIs is desired
  • Expulsion risk: There is a risk of the IUD being expelled from the uterus. If you have never been pregnant, have heavy periods and severe menstrual pain, or are younger than 25, there is a high chance of expulsion
  • Perforation: Perforation, either partial or total, of the uterine wall or cervix is a rare but serious risk associated with the placement of a copper IUD. It may occur during insertion and could go undetected until later stages 

Perforation is when the IUD is stuck in the uterine wall.

Side effects of Copper IUD

Pelvic pain
Woman suffering from cramps

When using ParaGrad, individuals can experience the following common side effects:

  • Bleeding between periods
  • Cramps
  • Backache
  • Pain during sex
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Vaginal irritation

Insertion process of Copper IUD

The insertion of ParaGard is a straightforward procedure typically performed in a healthcare provider’s office. 

The process involves:

Initial consultation

Before getting a copper IUD, you must visit a specially trained doctor or nurse for an initial consultation.

During this visit, the doctor will ask questions about your health to ensure that an IUD is a suitable contraceptive option for you.

Medical examination

You might undergo a series of medical examinations, including a vaginal examination, a cervical screening test, or a test for infection.

These examinations are crucial to assess your overall health and ensure no contraindications for inserting the IUD.

Placement of copper IUD

The actual process of inserting the copper IUD takes approximately 15 minutes.

The device is folded down within an applicator tube and carefully placed in the uterus. 

After removing the tube, the provider trims the device’s strings.

The insertion process may cause pain or discomfort for some individuals. 

Some clinics may offer the option of sedation for those who prefer it. 

Post-insertion care

After the copper IUD is inserted, you may experience cramps and bleeding or spotting for the first few days. 

Over-the-counter pain medications like Paracetamol or Ibuprofen can help manage cramps, and a heat pack may provide relief.

Follow-up and monitoring

Schedule a follow-up appointment for any concerns after the insertion.

Regularly check the IUD threads each month after your period to ensure the device is still in the correct position. 

Your doctor or nurse will tell you how to perform this check.

Removal process

Copper IUD devices
Closeup of a doctor holding copper IUD device

Copper IUD (ParaGard) removal is typically a straightforward process in a healthcare provider’s office. 

The steps used to remove IUD are:

  • The provider searches for the IUD strings at the cervix’s opening, which can be felt with the hands without invasive procedures
  • Using an IUD hook or forceps, the healthcare provider gently grasps the IUD strings and slowly pulls on them
  • The flexible arms of the IUD slide through the cervix and out of the vagina.

Post-removal

Some discomfort and mild cramping may be experienced during and after removal.

After removal, individuals should feel mostly normal. However, light bleeding and slight cramping may occur immediately after the procedure.

Warning:
If a temperature exceeding 101 degrees Fahrenheit is experienced after removal, contacting the healthcare provider is crucial, as it could indicate infection.

Conclusion

The Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD), commonly known as ParaGard, is a reliable contraceptive option for individuals seeking long-term pregnancy prevention.

It works by inhibiting the fertilization of sperm and eggs, altering the uterine lining, and hindering sperm transport. 

It is used by a range of individuals, including those who have or haven’t had children, are of any age, and even breastfeeding mothers.

Copper IUD is hormone-free, making it suitable for those sensitive to hormonal changes, and can be used as emergency contraception capability within 5 days of unprotected sex. 

While the risk of pregnancy is less than 1%, there is an increased chance of ectopic pregnancy, and it does not protect against STIs.

Although generally straightforward, the insertion and removal processes may cause discomfort for some individuals. 

In deciding between the Copper IUD, individuals should consult with healthcare professionals, considering their health history and potential contraindications. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the negatives of a copper IUD?

The copper Intrauterine Device (IUD) has some downsides to consider. Users may experience heavier periods and increased cramps, with spotting between periods in the initial months. There’s a small risk of expulsion shortly after insertion and rare instances of perforation, where the IUD punctures the uterine wall. 

Do copper IUDs Stop Periods?

No, copper IUDs do not stop periods. In fact, for some women, they may lead to heavier and more prolonged menstrual bleeding. The copper IUD works by creating an inhospitable environment for sperm, preventing fertilization, but it does not suppress the natural menstrual cycle.

Does copper IUD Cause Weight Gain?

There is no evidence to suggest that copper IUDs cause weight gain. Unlike hormonal methods of contraception, copper IUDs do not release hormones into the body that could influence weight. Weight gain is not listed as a common side effect of copper IUD use.

Is copper IUD Insertion Painful?

The insertion of a copper IUD can be uncomfortable or painful for some women. The procedure typically involves the insertion of the IUD through the cervix into the uterus, and some women may experience cramping during this process. Healthcare providers recommend taking pain relievers before the procedure to manage discomfort.

Citations:
WowRx uses only high-quality sources while writing our articles. Please read our content information policy to know more about how we keep our content reliable and trustworthy.