Factsheet
The Copper IUD
Date 30 January 2009
BASIC FACTS |
WHAT IS A COPPER IUD?
A Copper IUD is a small plastic device with copper wire wrapped around its stem. It is placed inside the uterus (womb) to prevent pregnancy. It has a fine nylon string attached to it. When the Copper IUD is in place, the string comes out through the cervix (the end of the uterus) into the vagina. The IUD can stay in place for five to eight years depending on the type.
HOW DOES THE COPPER IUD WORK?
The copper released from the IUD affects both the sperm and the eggs and the IUD causes changes in the lining of the womb so that a baby cannot grow there.
HOW WELL DOES IT WORK?
The Copper IUD works very well. It is more than 99% effective.
WHO CAN USE A COPPER IUD?
You should be able to use it if you have had a baby, but talk to your doctor, as there are some reasons why it may not be right for you.
WHO SHOULD NOT USE AN IUD?
You should not use an IUD if you could be pregnant. It may be better for women who have heavy periods to use a progestogen IUD. There are some medical conditions that you may have which could prevent you from using the Copper IUD. It is very important to talk with your doctor to be sure it is safe for you to use it.
HOW DO YOU GET THE COPPER IUD?
You need to go to a doctor or Family Planning clinic. Usually you are asked to make two visits. On the first visit the doctor asks questions about your health and tells you about the IUD. You will have a vaginal/pelvic examination, a Pap test and possibly a test for vaginal infection. On the second visit the IUD is inserted. The procedure takes about 10 minutes. It is not usually painful though some women find it a little uncomfortable. You will probably be asked to rest for a while before you leave the clinic.
HOW IS THE COPPER IUD TAKEN OUT?
You need to go to a doctor or Family Planning clinic to have it taken out. The doctor uses a special instrument to remove the IUD by gently pulling on the string. This only takes a couple of minutes. Some women find it a little uncomfortable but most women don't feel much at all.
THINGS TO REMEMBER
Feel inside your vagina with your finger to check the string each month after your period, to be sure the IUD is in place.
If you or your partner ever have casual sex, or if you have a new sexual partner, use a condom every time until you both have been checked for sexually transmissible infections (STIs).
If you have any unusual discharge from your vagina or pain low in your abdomen, see your doctor straight away.
For further information
- Contact the Healthline on 1300 658 886.
