Obstetrics & Gynaecology/Copper intrauterine device

Copper IUD

also: Cu-IUD · copper coil

Overview

The only non-hormonal LARC, and the most effective emergency contraceptive.

Mechanism

Copper ions are toxic to sperm and ova (impair motility/viability) and provoke a sterile endometrial inflammatory reaction hostile to implantation/fertilisation. No hormones.

Indications

Non-hormonal contraception
Emergency contraception (most effective; up to 120 h)

Adverse effects

Heavier, more painful periodsclassic

Commonest reason for removal.

Expulsion / perforation at insertioncommon

Increased PID risk in first 20 dayscommon

Cautions & contraindications

Current pelvic infection / STIall

Distorted uterine cavity, unexplained vaginal bleedingall

Wilson diseaseall

Copper.

Interactions

None (non-hormonal) — unaffected by enzyme inducers

Monitoring & kinetics

Threads check after insertion

5–10 years depending on device.

Choosing it

true

Source: FSRH — Intrauterine contraception