COPPER IUD - pro's and con's
The Copper IUD is a form of birth control, it is also known as ParaGuard. It differs from traditional contraception methods, such as the pill, as it is non-hormonal. Non-hormonal means it does not release synthetic hormones into your body, nor does it suppress your hormones per se. In my opinion, this can be a huge benefit as it does not interfere with your body's natural ability to ovulate. YAY.
If you have been following my instagram you would know that ovulation is the main event of the menstrual cycle.
We need ovulation to make our hormones. Other methods of birth control shut down ovulation and prevent your body from making hormones (read more about the pill here).
How does the copper IUD work
The main purpose for the IUD is to prevent unwanted pregnancy. But the best thing is that it prevents pregnancy without interfering with hormones. It is a small T shaped device, inserted into the uterus by a medical professional, generally at a doctor's office. It only takes a couple of minutes and is a similar setup to getting a pap smear. The device is folded to fit through your vagina and cervix, and then placed into the opening of the uterus. A small string will hang high up in the vagina, which you or your sexual partner generally will not notice.
Sperm does not like copper, it repels sperm and prevents it from reaching a woman's egg. Sperm requires a hostile environment to survive. Copper alters that environment by disrupting cervical mucus and the uterus lining. Copper also alters the vaginal microbiome, further compromising sperm survivability. Basically, the copper creates a toxic environment, making it almost impossible for sperm to survive.
PROS:
It is non hormonal: this allows for natural ovulation and does not mess up your body's natural cycle or its ability to make hormones.
Lower side effects compared to other birth control methods: because your body is making its natural hormones you don’t see common side effects of the pill: mood swings, lowered libido, nausea or nutrient depletion.
Highly effective in preventing pregnancy: copper IUD is 99% effective. In comparison, the pill is 91% effective (5,4).
Fertility generally returns as soon as you remove it.
It can stay in your uterus for up to 10 years.
It is suitable for any women of any age
CONS:
Disrupts your period: The first 3-12 months after insertion, it is common to see an increase in period pain and experience a heavier flow. Increased pain and flow is the most common cause of discontinuing use within the first year of insertion (1).
You may also experience spotting and pain in between periods.
Alters the vaginal microbiome: this may increase the chance of thrush, bacterial vaginosis or STI’s. Developing an STI could result in scar tissue and potentially lead to future fertility issues or pelvic inflammatory disease. Although the IUD is a form of birth control, it does NOT protect you against STI/STD.
Painful insertion: Although it is a quick procedure, some women experience excruciating pain upon insertion. It is also common to have pain that is worse than period pain a couple of weeks-months post insertion.
Risk of copper excess: Our bodies do need small amounts of copper and the amount released by copper IUD is smaller than what we would consume in food. However, people are exposed to copper everyday through old water pipes that contaminate drinking water and other environmental exposures to copper. Copper IUD users have been shown to have higher levels of copper compared to non-users (3). Copper excess can affect our zinc status. This is particularly concerning if you are already zinc deficient. It is important to monitor your zinc and copper levels if you have the copper IUD.
Risk of explosion or dislodging: There is a chance that the device can fall out or become misplaced. It is more common in the first month. The device can move around if you have a small uterine cavity or have strong period cramps. This can cause issues with the physical uterine lining and impair efficacy of preventing pregnancy.
Risk of Perforation: Although rare, there is a 0.1% chance of the device puncturing the uterine wall (2). Symptoms of perforation include: pelvic or lower abdominal pain, fever, severe bleeding, nausea, vomiting.
The copper IUD is one of the few contraception methods that are non hormonal. It is a great option if you cannot rely on other forms of natural contraception. However, this method does not come without risks, so it is best to talk with a trusted practitioner before making any changes to your contraceptive methods.
