Copper IUD/Copper Coil
There are two types of contraceptive intrauterine devices (IUDs), also known as coils. There is one that uses hormones and one that doesn’t. This page is about the copper IUD (Cu-IUD), click here for information and advice about the hormonal (IUD).
The copper IUD, or Cu-IUD is a small plastic and copper contraceptive device that is fitted into your uterus (womb). It has two threads that hang down to enable you to check that it is in place and to allow your doctor to remove it at a later date. It stops you from getting pregnant by slowly releasing copper, which prevents sperm from surviving in your cervix, uterus or fallopian tubes. It may also stop fertilised eggs from implanting in the womb.
How effective is the copper IUD?
A copper IUD is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy and can last for 5 or 10 years depending on the type. It can also be fitted as a form of emergency contraception up to 5 days after unprotected sex, sometimes later depending on your cycle. It starts working as soon as it is fitted and your fertility will return to normal as soon as it is removed. Occasionally, the IUD can be pushed out by your uterus, or it can move which would stop it from working. This doesn’t happen very often and staff at your Devon Sexual Health clinic will show you how to check so you know it’s in the right place.
Who can use a copper IUD?
Most women can use the copper IUD. When you come in and see us, we will ask about your medical history and whether you have had any illnesses or complications just to check if the copper IUD is suitable for you. If we feel the copper IUD is unsuitable for you, we will advise you about other methods of contraception. Everyone’s different so please come in and have a chat.
Where can I get a copper IUD?
You can get a copper IUD fitted at most of our Devon Sexual Health clinics. An IUD can only be fitted by a specially trained doctor or nurse.
You can find out more information about having a copper IUD fitted here:
Are there any side effects?
Some women may experience some spotting or cramps for a number of days following insertion of an IUD. Heavier, longer or more painful periods when a copper IUD is fitted, especially in the first few months can also be quite common. There is also a small chance of infection especially during the first 20 days, so if you notice any unusual vaginal discharge or pain then please come back and see us as soon as possible.
The copper coil IUD is an extremely effective form of contraception and it’s very unlikely that you will get pregnant. If you do, there is a slightly increased chance that it will result in an ectopic pregnancy.
It’s also important to remember that an IUD cannot prevent you from getting a sexually transmitted infection. If you have a new partner or are unsure of your partner’s sexual history, you can contact us regards STI testing or see our STI pages.
What happens when you get an IUD fitted?
You need to book an appointment to see a contraceptive nurse or doctor. They will ask you some questions about your health and then will give you a quick examination to check the size and position of your uterus. Sometimes they will also check for any STIs. Inserting the IUD takes around 5 minutes and can be a little uncomfortable. Don’t worry, the doctor or nurse will talk you through this beforehand and may offer you a local anaesthetic if needed. They may be able to fit the IUD at this consultation, or they will bring you back for the fitting at a later date, whichever is most appropriate. The appointment will last for approximately 30 minutes.
Due to the stimulation of the nerves of the cervix during the IUD fitting you may feel lightheaded or faint during or after the procedure, this is sometimes referred to as ‘cervical shock’. These symptoms should pass quickly. Please let the clinical team know if you feel unwell at any time during or after the procedure. If you continue to feel unwell we will monitor you to make sure you are recovered before you go home. We recommend you sit in the waiting area for 5-10 minutes after your coil fitting and if you have a long journey home, you may wish to consider bringing someone to the appointment with you.
If you decide to have your IUD removed, you will need to visit one of our clinics. A specially trained doctor or nurse will remove it and will give you advice about other forms of contraception you could use instead. Your fertility will return as soon as the IUD is removed. You need to make sure that you have used additional contraception or avoided sex for 7 days before you have the IUD removed, otherwise you could still get pregnant.
Pros & Cons
- It works immediately
- You can’t forget to take it
- It lasts for 5 – 10 years
- It can be used as emergency contraception
- It is 99% effective
- It does not contain hormones
- It doesn’t protect you from STIs
- You have to book an appointment to have one fitted (although this only takes 30 mins)
- It can lead to heavier, more painful periods in some women.
Frequently asked questions about
Copper IUD
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Will an IUD protect me against STIs?
No an IUD will not protect you against sexually transmitted infections. If you have a new partner or are unsure about your partners sexual history, then you need to use a male or female condom. You could also book a check-up for you both.
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Are tampons or mooncups safe to use with an IUD?
A tampon will not affect the IUD in any way. IUDs can however become dislodged by the use of moon cups.
The manufacturer of the Moon Cup® recommends waiting for 6 weeks following the insertion of IUD before using the menstrual cup. They also state that the Moon Cup should be placed low in the vagina with an adequate seal, which should be broken before the cup is removed. The manufacturer also recommends checking for IUD threads after each menses. If the threads cannot be located, or if a woman thinks her Cu-IUD has moved or if a woman experiences pain, the manufacturer recommends using additional contraception and consulting with an appropriate health care professional. (FSRH guidance on Intrauterine contraception)
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How often should I check my IUD?
We recommend checking your IUD yourself by feeling for the threads. Ideally do this once a month after your period.
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How soon after having a copper IUD fitted can I have sex?
You will be protected against unplanned pregnancy straight away.
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When can I have an IUD fitted?
You can have an IUD fitted any time including during your period, as long as there is no risk of pregnancy.
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Can an IUD move around inside your body?
Very rarely an IUD can go thorough (perforate) the womb into the abdomen. This is very rare (1-2/1000). It is slightly more likely if you are breast feeding as the womb is softer, but this is also rare. If this happened you may get some discomfort and you would not be able to feel your threads. In this case you would need a small operation to remove it.
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What age can I have an IUD fitted?
An IUD can be fitted at any age as long as you feel comfortable to have it fitted.
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Will my partner feel the strings when we have sex?
It’s possible, although the strings should get softer and less noticeable with time. If it’s really causing a problem, your doctor could trim the strings a bit shorter.
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Will an IUD affect my fertility?
No, your fertility will return to the same level as before as soon as you remove the IUD.
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Will an IUD cause pelvic inflammatory disease?
There is a very small increased risk of a pelvic infection particularly within 20 days of having an IUD fitted. The signs of this will be bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge and pain in the lower abdomen. If you are worried please contact one of our Devon Sexual Health clinics for advice.
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Will an IUD fall out or get knocked out by accident?
The IUD is specially shaped so that this doesn’t happen. It’s also very unlikely that you would pull it out by mistake when checking that it’s in the right place. Occasionally, the IUD can be pushed out by your uterus, or it can move which would stop it from working.
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Does the IUD cause an abortion?
No the IUD does not cause an abortion. The copper is toxic to sperm and if you did get a fertilised egg the IUD prevents it from implanting in the womb.
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Can I use a moon cup with my IUD?
We are aware that the use of moon cups and other menstrual cups is increasing due to concerns about the environment. We are seeing an increase in numbers of coils becoming dislodged or even removed by the use of such menstrual cups.
Please follow the recommendations below when using a menstrual cup if you have a coil:
The manufacturer of the Moon Cup® recommends waiting for 6 weeks following the insertion of IUD before using the menstrual cup. They also state that the Moon Cup should be placed low in the vagina with an adequate seal, which should be broken before the cup is removed. The manufacturer also recommends checking for IUC threads after each menses. If the threads cannot be located, or if a woman thinks her Cu-IUD has moved or if a woman experiences pain, the manufacturer recommends using additional contraception and consulting with an appropriate health care professional. (FSRH guidance on Intrauterine contraception)
If you do have concerns about your coil please phone your local clinic for advice.