Copper IUD, also known as a non-hormonal IUD, is a very effective type of contraception that is inserted into the uterus and prevents possible pregnancies, with an effect that can last up to 10 years.
This device is a small piece of copper-coated polyethylene that has been used as a contraceptive for many years, presenting several advantages over the pill, such as not needing a daily booster and having few side effects.
- The IUD should always be selected with the gynecologist and should also be applied to that doctor’s office and cannot be changed at home.
- In addition to the copper IUD.
- There is also the hormonal IUD.
- Also known as Mirena IUD.
- Learn more about these two types of IUDs.
There is not yet a proven form of action, however, it is accepted that the copper IUD alters the conditions within the woman’s uterus, affecting cervical mucus and the morphological characteristics of the endometrium, which eventually makes it difficult for sperm to pass through the tubes…
Because sperm can’t reach the tubes, they can’t reach the egg either, fertilization and pregnancy don’t happen.
Like any other method of contraception, the copper IUD has several advantages, but also disadvantages, which are summarized in the following table:
Therefore, before choosing to use the copper IUD as a method of contraception, it is advisable to speak with the gynecologist to find out if this is the best method for each case.
Find out how to choose the best method of birth control for each case.
The gynecologist should always insert the copper IUD into the doctor’s office, so the woman is placed in a gynecological position with her legs slightly separated and the doctor inserts the IUD into the uterus; during this procedure, a woman may feel a small discomfort, similar to pressure.
Once placed, your doctor leaves a small thread inside your vagina to indicate that the IUD is in place.This thread can be felt with the finger, but usually the couple does not feel it during intimate contact.In addition, the cable may change position slightly over time or appear shorter in a few days, however, this should only be cause for concern if it disappears.
In these cases, you should go immediately to the hospital or gynecologist’s office for a transvaginal ultrasound and assess if there are any problems with your IUD, such as a move, for example.
Although copper IUD is a method with few side effects, some side effects such as abdominal cramps and excessive bleeding during menstruation may still occur.
In addition, because it is a device that is placed inside the vagina, the risk of displacement, infection or perforation of the uterine wall is always very low, in such cases there are usually no symptoms but the thread may disappear inside the vagina.there is a suspicion that something has happened, the doctor should be consulted immediately.
Copper IUD does not enlarge or alter appetite because it does not use hormones to act.Generally, only hormone-free IUD, such as Mirena, has the lowest risk of causing some form of body disturbance.