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The Copper IUD is the most commonly used intrauterine device, a birth control method that is long term, small, safe, and highly effective. Like all IUD's, the Copper IUD is a t-shaped plastic device. The Copper IUD is wrapped in copper wire or contains hormones and is inserted into the uterus by a doctor. To check that the IUD is in place or when the IUD is removed, there is a plastic string tied to the end of the IUD which hangs down through the cervix and into the vagina. The Copper IUD is effective for at least 10 years.
The copper on the Copper IUD is toxic to sperm, it makes the uterus and fallopian tubes generate fluids containing white blood cells, copper ions, enzymes, and prostaglandins that kill sperm.
How should I use Copper IUD?
Do not insert the Copper IUD if you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant. IUDs are inserted into your uterus by your doctor. The procedure only takes a few minutes. A local anesthetic may be used and will be injected into the cervix area. Women who have had a vaginal childbirth in the past may find the IUD insertion easy. After the procedure, the doctor may have you feel the string so you are familiar with what it should feel like. The doctor may prescribe you antibiotics to prevent infection.
Have someone drive you home after the procedure. In the following 2 days after the procedure, mild cramping and light bleeding is expected. A check-up session may be scheduled 4 to 5 weeks after the procedure to make sure the IUD is in place.
At the end of every period, check the IUD string by inserting a finger into your vagina and feel for the cervix (it is located at the top of your vagina and feels harder than the rest of your vagina), a thin plastic string should be at the opening of your cervix. It may be difficult to find because it can coil around or pulled up into the cervix. If you can not feel the string or the rigid end of the IUD, call your doctor. A yearly checkup session is required.
Do not use the Copper IUD if you:
- are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
- had a pelvic infection at the time of IUD insertion
- have more than one sex partner or has one sex partner who has other sex partners
- have one sex partner with infections you are at high risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or pelvic inflammatory disease(PID)
- have never been pregnant (you will experience more pain and will be more likely have the IUD come out after it is inserted)
- have a sexually transmitted disease or have had one within the past 3 months
- are not willing ot use condoms to protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases
- have an active infection in your vagina or cervix
- have pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or have a recent history of PID
- have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners (anticoagulants)
- have a history of problems with the IUDs
- have abnormalities of your uterus
- have a uterine infection after childbirth or a septic abortion
- have uterine bleeding of unknown origin
- have allergy to copper
What are the risks for the Copper IUD?
- You may experience increased menstrual bleeding or cramping and spotting between periods
- Although rare, the IUD may get stuck or puncture the uterus during insertion. If it occurs, the IUD should be removed.
- The IUD may be pushed out from the uterus into the vagina during the first year in the first few months. This is common amongst women who have the IUD inserted right after childbirth or women who have not carried a pregnancy. Once the IUD is pushed out, you are no longer protected against pregnancy.
If you become pregnant with the IUD in place, it is recommended by your doctor to have it removed because it may cause miscarriage or preterm birth.
Be aware of the following symptoms that relate to serious problems with the IUD
- Late periods or abnormal spotting or severe bleeding.
- Abdominal pain and abdominal pain during sexual intercourse or severe cramping.
- Infection with a sexually transmitted disease(STD) or exposure to an STD, symptoms of a vaginal infection (ie. abnormal vaginal discharge).
- Not feeling well or fever of 100.4 degrees Farenheit(38 degrees Celsius) or higher.
- The IUD string is missing, or is longer or shorter than normal.
Call your doctor when:
- you can not feel the IUD string (use back up contraception until you have seen your doctor)
- you have severe or prolonged vaginal bleeding
- you missed a menstrual period.
