Insertable Contraceptive Device Made of Copper: Effectiveness, Advantages, Drawbacks, and Procedural Details
Copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a popular choice for long-term, reversible birth control in the United States. The most common copper IUD is the ParaGard (TCu 380a), a non-hormonal option that offers effectiveness for up to 10 years or more.
**Types of Copper IUDs Available**
The ParaGard is the sole non-hormonal copper IUD available in the U.S., featuring a T-shaped frame with copper wire.
**Recommended Removal Period**
The ParaGard IUD is recommended for removal after 10 years, although it has been shown to be effective for up to 12 years in some studies. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval is for 10 years.
**Side Effects**
Common side effects of the ParaGard IUD include heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, especially during the first 3–6 months after insertion, and more painful menstrual cramps. It can also act as emergency contraception up to 5 days after unprotected sex, making it an effective option for preventing pregnancy. Because it's hormone-free, it's suitable for use while breastfeeding.
**Efficacy Rates**
Copper IUDs like ParaGard have a failure rate ranging from 0.1 to 2.2% in the first year, with the overall failure rate typically around 0.8%.
**Placement and Removal**
The insertion process is minimally invasive, similar to a Pap smear, and can be done without anesthesia but may cause discomfort. Removal is usually simple, but in some cases, a healthcare professional may have difficulty removing the IUD if it has embedded itself into the uterus. Fertility typically returns quickly after removal, even after long-term use.
**Cost and Availability**
The cost of a copper IUD can vary, with prices ranging from $0 to $1,300, depending on insurance or government programs. If a person does not have healthcare insurance, Medicaid or other state programs may be available to provide financial help.
**Risks and Precautions**
Some risks associated with the copper IUD include the IUD slipping partly or entirely out of the uterus, increased risk of ectopic pregnancy, infection after insertion, IUD puncturing the uterus, and infertility if left untreated. It is essential to seek medical attention if any symptoms occur, such as being unable to feel the IUD strings, feeling the plastic of the IUD coming through the cervix, experiencing soreness or bad cramping pain in the lower belly, pain or bleeding during intercourse, having unexplained fever, chills or difficulty breathing, having heavier vaginal bleeding than usual, or noticing the vaginal discharge is different.
In conclusion, the ParaGard remains the primary copper IUD available in the U.S., offering a hormone-free option with long-term effectiveness. It prevents sperm from fertilizing eggs by acting as a spermicide, making it a reliable choice for many women seeking long-term birth control.
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