5 advantages of the copper IUD as a long-acting contraceptive method

Using a safe and effective method of contraception is a right for all women. An option that is available in the SUS, is more than 99% effective and has a long duration is the copper IUD. To learn more about him, check out what gynecologist Luisa Jacques says (CRM 196.505).

What is a copper IUD?

According to Luisa, the copper IUD is a plastic device wrapped in a copper wire, which acts as a contraceptive. Among the so-called long-acting reversible contraceptive methods (LARC), it is the only one that does not contain hormones in its formulation, “being, therefore, an important alternative for women who do not want or cannot use hormonal contraceptive methods”, emphasizes the gynecologist. .

How does this contraceptive method work?

The doctor explains that the IUD is inserted into the uterine cavity through the external orifice of the cervix, visible on the speculum exam (the same performed in the Pap smear). It is a simple procedure, performed in the office, possibly with the use of local anesthetic.

She also comments that “the presence of the IUD triggers an inflammatory reaction that modifies the endometrium and fallopian tubes, affects the function and viability of the sperm and egg, in addition to acting on the cervical mucus. This means that it acts by preventing fertilization and is not, therefore, an abortive method, contrary to what is sometimes publicized”.

The advantages and disadvantages of the copper IUD

Check out below which advantages and disadvantages the doctor commented on this contraceptive method:

Benefits

• High effectiveness in preventing pregnancy (greater than 99%);
• The possibility of use as emergency contraception;
• A duration of at least 10 years;
• The absence of side effects and potential risks related to the use of hormones;
• Evidence of benefit in preventing cervical, ovarian and endometrial cancer.

Disadvantage

Access limitation that still exists in public and private systems, caused in part by the dissemination of false information, false contraindications and often unnecessary prerequisites, delaying or preventing access to the method.

There are advantages and disadvantages to using this contraceptive method. That’s why it’s very important to talk to a gynecologist and understand if the IUD might be a good option for you.

Who is it not suitable for?

Luisa comments that “the copper IUD is contraindicated, for example, for women who have any condition that leads to distortion of the uterine cavity or in those who have vaginal bleeding under investigation, of unknown cause”.

Side effects

According to the gynecologist, the main side effects that may be related to the use of copper IUDs are increased cramps and menstrual flow, which, when present, tend to improve over the months.

In addition, she emphasizes that “there are no side effects related to mood swings, reduced libido, bloating, weight gain, breast tenderness, headache, skin changes, and others.”

Copper IUD FAQs

Does it have good efficacy and is it a safe method?

Luisa Jacques: The copper IUD is among the safest methods, with an efficiency of over 99%, comparable, for example, to the effectiveness of tubal ligation.

What is the average price?

LJ: The different models of copper IUDs cost around R$100.00 to R$300.00. The value of the insertion depends on the professional. It is worth remembering, however, that the copper IUD is offered free of charge by the SUS and can be inserted in basic health units.

Does it hurt to put?

LJ: Yes, there is discomfort with insertion, which varies among women. There are, however, ways to alleviate the pain, such as the use of local anesthetic, indicated especially in women who have never given birth.

Who has PCOS can put it on?

LJ: Yes you can. The copper IUD has no impact on PCOS.

Is there a minimum age to apply?

LJ: no.

Does it cause infection?

LJ: no. The copper IUD would only facilitate the ascent of pathogenic microorganisms from the vagina to the uterus at the time of insertion, thus increasing the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease in the days following insertion. Over the course of use, however, there is no difference in infection rates between IUD users and non-users.

Can women who don’t have children put it on?

LJ: Yes, there is no contraindication.

Does it increase cramps?

LJ: It can increase, although it’s not a rule. And this side effect, when present, tends to improve over the first six months of use.

Now there’s no excuse for being misinformed, is there? With all of Luisa’s answers, it became easier to learn information about the copper IUD, in addition to understanding if they are true or myths that people talk to each other.

Testimonials from those who use the copper IUD

Check, below, the reports of those who use the copper IUD as a contraceptive method. In them, you will see how the insertion was, the adaptation of the girls, as well as tips for those who want to use this method for free through the SUS.

Testimonial about copper IUD

For starters, you can check out the report by Camila Rodrigues, who told about the insertion experience, gave more details about pain and how her flow was after choosing this method. It’s a very explanatory video for those who still have doubts about the IUD!

Copper IUD by SUS

Did you know that the IUD is available on the public network? Well, you don’t have to pay for health insurance or private insertion. Want to know more about? Check out the experience of Kellen Cristine, who had the IUD inserted through SUS and told all the details in the video.

Asking Questions with a Copper IUD User

Still have questions about this method? Here, you can see Adriana Lua’s report, who tells a little about her experience with the IUD, how the insertion went, if she felt pain, if she has any discomfort because of it and much more. Hit play to check it out!

IUD adaptation report

In this video, you can see the experience of a user of this method, in addition to understanding why she chose it, what types of bureaucracy she went through with the health plan, how the insertion was and how the adaptation is going.

As seen, using a highly effective contraceptive method is a right for all women. If you’re interested in the copper IUD, talk to a gynecologist to see if it might be a good option for you. And if you want to continue reading about it, check out the other types of IUDs.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.