What is the Copper IUD?

The copper IUD, or intrauterine device, is a small device with a fine copper wire wound around a plastic frame. It's inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Attached to the IUD is a fine nylon thread that extends through the cervix into the upper vagina.

How does the Copper IUD work?

The copper IUD operates by:

• Being toxic to both sperm and egg, preventing fertilization.
• Slowing sperm transport, reducing the chances of sperm and egg meeting.
• Altering the uterine lining to inhibit support for a fertilized egg.

Effectiveness of the Copper IUD

The copper IUD is 99.5% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Considerations Before Using the Copper IUD:

Discuss with your doctor if:

• You experience severe or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
• You have anemia (low iron levels).
• You've had recent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• You have conditions altering the shape of your uterus, like fibroids.
• Previous issues with IUDs, such as spontaneous expulsion.
• You're unable to attend follow-up check-ups after insertion.

Advantages:

• High effectiveness.
• Options available for 5 or 10-year usage.
• Initial cost may be higher, but cost-effective due to extended usage.
• Hormone-free, devoid of hormonal side effects.
• Immediate return to fertility after removal.
• Can serve as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days post-unprotected intercourse.

Disadvantages:

• Doesn’t protect against STIs.
• Requires a procedure for insertion and removal, potentially uncomfortable.
• Minimal risks during insertion include difficulty, perforation, or infection.
• Possibility of spontaneous expulsion.
• Might increase menstrual flow and duration.
• Initial irregular spotting might occur.

Procedure for Getting a Copper IUD:

• Insertion takes about 10 minutes, with a clinic visit lasting about an hour.
• Some discomfort or pain during insertion, and some individuals may feel faint.

Post-Insertion Guidelines:

• Expect cramps and bleeding for a few days, manageable with pain relievers or heat packs.
• Avoid sex, tampons, and swimming for 2 days to prevent infection.
• Schedule a follow-up check-up 4 to 6 weeks after insertion.
• Monthly thread checks after periods to ensure correct positioning.

At Sai Multispeciality Clinic, we offer exceptional copper IUD insertion services. Additionally, we provide hormonal levonorgestrel-containing IUCD for conditions like adenomyosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, and non-atypical endometrial hyperplasia.