Birth Control Methods

Non-Hormonal IUD

ParaGard®

Emergency Contraception

External Condoms

Hormonal IUD

Implant

Internal Condoms

Non-Hormonal IUD

Patch

Ring

Shot/Injection

Sterilization – Female

Sterilization – Male

The Pill

About

The copper non-hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) is approved by the FDA for use up to ten years. It works mainly by using copper, which acts like a substance that kills sperm, making it harder for sperm to move through the uterus and preventing fertilization. It’s also very effective at preventing pregnancy, with less than one percent of users getting pregnant. Just like the levonorgestrel IUD, you can quickly become fertile again after the IUD is removed.

Effectiveness

99%

99% effective

Mechanism of Action

A Non-Hormonal IUD works to prevent pregnancy in a few ways:

Increases copper ions, enzymes, prostaglandins, and white blood cells: These substances build up in the fluids of the uterus and fallopian tubes.
Creates a hostile environment for sperm: The increased substances impair sperm function, making it difficult for sperm to survive and move effectively.
Prevents fertilization: Because the sperm are weakened, they are less likely to fertilize an egg, thus preventing pregnancy.

Benefits

Set it and forget it

Hormone-free

Immediate return to fertility

Discreet method

Can be removed at any time

If inserted within five days after unprotected sex, the copper IUD is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy. Using a Non-hormonal IUD has several benefits besides preventing pregnancy, and here’s how they can be helpful:

Once the copper IUD is placed, you don’t have to think about it daily or even monthly. It continuously works to prevent pregnancy.
If you decide you want to try to get pregnant or just prefer to stop using it, the IUD can be easily removed by a health care provider.
The copper IUD is completely hidden inside the body, making it a private form of contraception that others won’t notice.
Your ability to become pregnant returns very quickly once the IUD is removed.
The copper IUD doesn’t contain hormones, making it a good choice for those who prefer to avoid hormonal side effects.
It is one of the most effective long-term methods of birth control, with a very low chance of pregnancy when used.
The copper IUD doesn’t cause side effects throughout the body like some medications can because it doesn’t contain hormones.

Start Method

Immediate

You can have sex right after getting a non-hormonal IUD, as they begin working immediately.

Potential Side Effects and Concerns

When using a non-hormonal IUD, here are some potential side effects to be aware of:

Heavier, crampier periods: It’s common for periods to become heavier and more painful, especially in the first three months after the IUD is placed.
Manage with NSAIDs: The cramps and heavier bleeding can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen).
Expulsion rate: There’s a chance, between 2% and 10%, that the IUD might slip out of place or be expelled by the body. Regular check-ups can help ensure it’s still in place.
Perforation: In very rare cases, about one out of 1000, the IUD can create a small hole in the wall of the uterus during placement. This is a serious condition that would need immediate medical attention.

Understanding these potential side effects can help you decide if a non-hormonal IUD is the right choice for you, and regular follow-ups with your doctor can help manage any issues that arise.

Who Should Not Use This?

A non-hormonal IUD should not be used in patients with the following conditions:

Known or suspected pregnancy: It’s not safe to use if you might be pregnant.
Unexplained vaginal bleeding: If you have bleeding that hasn’t been explained by a doctor, you shouldn’t use an IUD until the cause is known.
Active Cervicitis: This is an inflammation of the cervix, and you should not use an IUD if you have this condition.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease in the past three months: If you’ve had this infection recently, you should wait before getting an IUD.
Postpartum or post-abortal infection in the past three months: If you’ve had an infection following childbirth or an abortion recently, it’s safer to avoid using an IUD for a while.
Uterine abnormalities that interfere with placement: If the shape of your uterus is unusual in a way that could make placing the IUD difficult or unsafe, it should not be used.
Genital Tract Cancer: If you have cancer in your reproductive organs, an IUD is not recommended.

It’s important to talk to your doctor about any of these conditions before considering a non-hormonal IUD. Regular follow-ups can help manage any issues that arise.