Copper IUD: what it is, how it works and possible side effects

The copper IUD is a very effective contraceptive method, which is inserted inside the uterus and prevents possible pregnancy, lasting up to 10 years.

This device is a small piece of copper-coated polyethylene capable of altering the characteristics of the uterus and cervical mucus, reducing sperm mobility and preventing pregnancy.

It is important that the IUD is selected together with the gynecologist, as there are some contraindications for the use of the copper IUD, and the hormonal IUD may be more suitable. Learn more about the types of IUDs.

How the copper IUD works

There is still no proven form of action, however, it is accepted that the copper IUD changes the conditions inside the woman’s uterus, affecting the cervical mucus, which becomes thicker, which affects the mobility of sperm, which cannot reach the ovum. Due to the release of copper ions in the uterus, there is an inflammatory and cytotoxic action, which interferes with the quality of sperm and induces their death.

Furthermore, the copper IUD promotes morphological changes in the endometrium, so that it is not possible for a possible fertilized egg to implant in the uterus and, consequently, for pregnancy to develop.

Advantages and disadvantages of the copper IUD

Like any other contraceptive method, 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 contraceptive method, you should talk to your gynecologist to understand whether it is the best method for each case. See how to choose the best contraceptive method.

How the IUD is inserted

The copper IUD must always be inserted by the gynecologist in the doctor’s office, and can be inserted on any day of the menstrual cycle, as long as pregnancy has been excluded. To do this, the woman is placed in the gynecological position with her legs slightly apart, and the doctor inserts the IUD into the uterus. During this procedure, the woman may feel a small amount of discomfort, similar to pressure.

Once inserted, the doctor leaves a small thread inside the vagina to indicate that the IUD is well placed. This thread can be felt with the finger, but is usually not felt by the partner during intimate contact. Additionally, it is possible that the thread may change position slightly over time or appear to be shorter over a few days, however, this should only be a cause for concern if it disappears.

What to do if you can’t find the wire

In these cases, you should immediately go to the hospital or gynecologist’s office to have a transvaginal ultrasound and assess whether there is any problem with the IUD, such as dislocation, for example.

When it is not indicated

Despite being a safe, effective method that does not have systemic effects, the use of the copper IUD has some contraindications, the main ones being:

• Postpartum sepsis;
• After septic abortion, which is a spontaneous or induced abortion complicated by a pelvic infection;
• Gestational trophoblastic disease;
• Leiomioma submucoso;
• Cervicitis caused by gonorrhea or chlamydia.

Furthermore, the use of the copper IUD is not recommended postpartum between 48 hours and 4 weeks, in cases of systemic lupus erythematosus with severe thrombocytopenia and AIDS, as the risks of this contraceptive method are greater than the benefits.

Possible side effects

Although the copper IUD is a method with few side effects, it is still possible for side effects such as abdominal cramps and excessive bleeding during menstruation.

Furthermore, as it is a device that is placed inside the vagina, there is still a very low risk of displacement, infection or perforation of the uterine wall. In these cases, there are generally no symptoms but the thread may disappear inside the vagina. Therefore, if you suspect that something has happened, you should consult a doctor immediately.

Does the IUD make you fat?

The copper IUD does not make you fat or cause any change in appetite, as it does not use hormones to function. Generally, only IUDs with hormones, such as Mirena, have any risk of causing any type of bodily change.