Copper IUD Procedure
Overview
A copper IUD is a long-lasting, hormone-free way to prevent pregnancy. This T-shaped intrauterine device consists of plastic wrapped with copper wire. Copper acts as a natural sperm blocker, stopping sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg.
A healthcare provider places the IUD inside the uterus, where it remains effective for up to 10 years. It is the only non-hormonal IUD currently available in the United States and has been approved for use as a reliable form of birth control.
Key Points:
- Type: Hormone-free copper IUD
- Shape: T-shaped device
- Duration: Up to 10 years
Reasons for Choosing This Method
People choose this option for several practical reasons. It does not contain hormones, making it a good choice for those who want to avoid hormonal side effects. As a long-acting, reversible contraceptive, it can be removed at any time by a healthcare professional.
Key Benefits
- No Daily Action Needed: Once placed, there’s no need to remember daily contraception.
- Does Not Interfere with Sex: No interruption to intimacy.
- Breastfeeding-Safe: Approved for use during lactation.
- Flexible Planning: Can be removed if family planning needs change.
Special Situations
This IUD may also serve as emergency contraception if inserted within five days of unprotected sex. It is suitable for people who cannot or prefer not to use hormonal methods.
Limits for Use
It may not be suitable in cases of:
| Condition | Reason for Exclusion |
|---|---|
| Current or possible pregnancy | Raises the risk of miscarriage. |
| Uterine abnormalities (like fibroids) | Device may not fit properly. |
| Untreated pelvic infections | Increases risk of complications. |
| Untreated uterine or cervical cancer | May worsen the condition. |
| Unexplained vaginal bleeding | Needs diagnosis before use. |
| Allergy to copper or device material | Can cause an allergic response. |
| Wilson’s disease | Affects copper levels in the body. |
Possible Drawbacks
This copper IUD generally provides effective contraception, but some users experience side effects such as irregular periods, heavy menstrual bleeding, or cramping, especially within the first few months.
It may be expelled from the body, particularly in younger users or those with recent childbirth or miscarriage. Rare but serious risks include perforation of the uterus and pelvic inflammatory disease.
| Possible Risks with ParaGard | |
|---|---|
| Bleeding | Irregular periods, spotting, heavy flows |
| Pain | Cramps, pelvic pain during periods |
| Device issues | Expulsion or perforation |
| Infections | Pelvic inflammatory disease, endometritis |
| Pregnancy risks | Ectopic pregnancy, failure rate under 1% |
| Other | No protection from STDs |
Those with severe symptoms should contact a healthcare provider promptly.
Getting Ready for the Procedure
Before ParaGard placement, a healthcare provider reviews the person’s health history and conducts a pelvic exam. Sometimes, they perform a pregnancy test or screen for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Patients can check with their provider about insurance coverage in advance. Many people take an NSAID, like ibuprofen, 1 to 2 hours before the appointment to help with possible cramping.
Tip
- Wear comfortable clothes
- Bring a list of current medications
- Avoid using vaginal agents before your visit
What You Can Expect
What Happens When It Is Put In
A healthcare professional typically performs the insertion in an office setting. The patient lies on an exam table while the provider gently inserts a speculum to hold the vaginal walls apart. They clean the cervix and surrounding area with an antiseptic solution to reduce infection risk.
To position the device, the provider aligns the cervix and the path to the uterus. They fold the IUD’s arms and load it into a thin tube, which passes through the cervix into the uterus. Once in place, the device is released and the arms open.
The inserter is then withdrawn. The provider trims the IUD strings so they are not too long but can still be felt near the top of the vagina for removal or self-checks.
| Possible Side Effects |
|---|
| Dizziness |
| Nausea |
| Faintness |
| Slow heartbeat |
Rarely, the device may puncture the cervix or uterine wall. Some individuals may experience seizures. Lying down for a few minutes after placement can help ease discomfort or dizziness.
What to Know After It Is Put In
About a month after placement, a follow-up appointment is usually scheduled to ensure the IUD is correctly positioned. Menstrual periods typically continue, though they may become heavier or longer at first. Signs it is important to reach out to a healthcare provider include:
- Missed menstrual period or signs of pregnancy
- Heavy or unusual vaginal bleeding
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Increasing pelvic pain
- Severe abdominal pain or tenderness
- Unexplained fever
- Possible exposure to a sexually transmitted infection
Also, reach out if you experience pain during sex, feel part of the device, or notice changes in the strings. These could indicate the IUD has shifted and may need removal. Regular string self-checks help ensure it remains in place.
The copper IUD prevents sperm from fertilizing an egg by affecting sperm movement and making cervical mucus less sperm-friendly. It does not contain hormones.
How the Device Is Taken Out
Removal is usually done in a healthcare setting during a pelvic exam. The provider locates the strings and uses forceps to gently pull the IUD out, folding the arms as it slides out of the uterus.
Most people experience mild cramping or light bleeding. These symptoms are typically short-lived. Removal is quick, nonsurgical, and fertility often returns rapidly, as ovulation and menstrual cycles are not permanently affected.
