Birth Control Options: The Copper T Intrauterine Device (IUD)

Copper T IUD
Levonorgestrel IUD
Progestasert IUD

WHAT IS THE COPPER T IUD?

An IUD is a small device which is placed inside the uterus. The vertical and horizontal arms of the Copper T 380A IUD contain copper which is slowly released into the uterine cavity. Copper stops sperm from making their way up through the uterus into the tubes, and it reduces the ability of sperm to fertilize the egg. It also prevents a fertilized egg from successfully implanting in the lining of the uterus if fertilization has occurred. Among typical couples who initiate use of this IUD, just less than 1% will experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year. Complete information about this contraceptive is available from your clinician or the package insert accompanying the Copper T 380 A.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES?

• The Copper T IUD is the most effective reversible method of birth control currently available in the United States.
• This IUD is effective for at least 12 years.
• Only 2 out of 100 women using a Copper T for 10 years will become pregnant.
• The IUD prevents ectopic pregnancies.
• This method is far more readily reversible than tubal sterilization or vasectomy.
• There is a very low cost over time. Use of an IUD is convenient, safe, and private.
• All you have to do is check for the strings each month.
• The IUD may be used by women who cannot use estrogen–containing birth control pills.
• It may be used by breastfeeding women.
• The IUD may be inserted immediately following the delivery of a baby or immediately after an abortion.
• Some studies of IUDs have shown a decreased risk for uterine cancer. There is also evidence that IUDs protect against cervical cancer.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES?

• There may be cramping, pain or spotting after insertion.
• The number of bleeding days is slightly higher than normal and you may have somewhat increased menstrual cramping. If your bleeding pattern is bothersome to you, contact your clinician. There are medications which may give you a more acceptable pattern of bleeding and cramping.
• The IUD provides no protection against sexually transmitted infections. Use condoms if there is any risk.
• There is a high initial cost of insertion. However, after 2 years, it is the most cost-effective method.
• The IUD must be inserted by a doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife or physician’s assistant.
• A small percentage of women are allergic to copper.
• Some men can feel the IUD strings during intercourse.

WHERE DO I GET AN IUD?

• You can get an IUD from your doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife or health department. Not all clinicians insert IUDs. Check in advance.
• Most clinics insert IUDs when a woman has her period or within 7 days after her period starts. If the risk of pregnancy can be excluded it may be possible to insert an IUD at other times.

WHAT IF I HAVE SEX AND DON’T USE BIRTH CONTROL?

Did you know that for 72 hours after sex, you can take emergency contraceptive pills to avoid becoming pregnant? AND for 5 to 7 days after sex, you can have an IUD put in, so you won’t become pregnant? Not all clinicians know about this. If you want more information or would like the phone numbers of clinicians near you that prescribe emergency birth control, call the toll-free number: (1-888) NOT-2-LATE or (1-800) 584-9911. Some of these sources of help are free. PLAN B is the emergency contraceptive pill that causes the least nausea, the least vomiting, and has the lowest failure rate.

The Pill | The Mini-Pill | Birth Control Shot | Abstinence  | Cervical Cap

Breastfeeding | Vasectomy | Female/Male Condom Choices

Contraceptive Film (VCF) | Natural Family Planning  |  IUD's

Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECP) | Vaginal Spermicides

Tubal Sterilization | The Ring | The Patch

Wyoming Health Council

Copyright ©2004 Wyoming Health Council. All rights reserved.