How does a copper IUD protect you from an unwanted pregnancy?

Non-hormonal IUDs can be a smart choice for those who prefer to keep excess hormones out of their bodies. The copper IUD works to protect against pregnancy and is over 99% effective.

What are the kinds of non-hormonal IUDs?

A non-hormonal IUD option is Flexi-T. The main post of the copper IUD is covered in a small copper coil that sits in the uterus.

Sperm isn't compatible with copper, and it's nearly impossible for sperm to swim past a copper IUD to find an egg in the uterus. This stops sperm from meeting an egg, preventing pregnancy. The IUD also changes the lining of the uterus so a fertilized egg cannot attach. This provides women with double birth control protection, making the copper IUD one of the most effective methods of birth control.

While the pill and other methods of hormonal birth control also have high levels of effectiveness, user error is a factor that can cause a woman to become pregnant even when she is taking birth control. Since there is no room for user error with the copper IUD, it provides a 99% chance of preventing pregnancy.

A copper IUD needs to be inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional. It stops sperm from reaching an egg by with a copper coil. It also changes the lining of the uterus so that an egg cannot attach if it becomes fertilized. After a copper IUD is inserted, it can stay in place for up to ten years. Many women find that it's helpful to not have to think about birth control every day, making the copper IUD an ideal alternative to taking daily birth control pills.

There are many benefits to non-hormonal IUDs over traditional methods of birth control. Many people find that hormonal birth control has unwanted side effects, such as weight gain and mood changes. Some types of birth control make it more likely that a person will suffer from blood clots. It's important to work closely with your doctor to determine the type of birth control that's the best fit for your needs.

The copper IUD works to prevent pregnancy by keeping sperm away from the egg. Sperm are unable to swim near copper, so the copper IUD repels them before they're able to fertilize an egg.

In the event that sperm manage to get past the copper IUD, the lining of the uterus is also changed so that a fertilized egg is less likely to implant.

Since the copper IUD does not contain any hormones, you'll ovulate each month while using the device. Many women notice that they have changes in their periods while using the copper IUD.

Yes, a copper IUD can be used as emergency contraception. When a copper IUD is inserted into the uterus within five days of having unprotected sex, there is less than a 1% chance of becoming pregnant. If you're not sure whether you need emergency contraception, be sure to reach out to your doctor and talk with them about your situation.

The copper IUD can stay in place for up to ten years, making it one of the most convenient forms of birth control. If you prefer, you can have the copper IUD removed sooner than ten years. This can be a good option if you decide you'd like to become pregnant or if you'd like to switch to another form of birth control.

It's important to keep your doctor up to date on any side effects that you experience from the copper IUD so they can decide whether it's the right form of birth control for you. Side effects of the copper IUD can differ greatly from person to person. Many people experience spotting between periods, irregular periods, cramping during periods, and heavier periods.

To insert a copper IUD, you'll book an appointment at your doctor's office. your doctor will insert a speculum and clean your vagina, then use an instrument to align your cervix and uterus. Then your doctor will place the IUD inside an applicator tube. The tube will then be placed inside your cervical canal and the applicator tube will be removed.

Your doctor may recommend that you take painkillers prior to your intrauterine device appointment. Be sure to talk with your doctor about whether the hormonal or copper IUD is the best fit for your needs. During your appointment, your doctor will insert a speculum then place the copper IUD into your uterus. For some women, this causes cramping. Your doctor will then remove the applicator and you'll be ready to go home.

The copper IUD is an immediately effective birth control option and can also be used as a form of emergency contraception.

The process of getting an IUD birth control device inserted only takes about five minutes.