Verhütung

Contraception with the Copper IUD: The Advantages and Disadvantages

MEDICALLY REVIEWED
Verhütung, Eierstöcke, Kupferspirale, Spirale

Internal Editorial Team
Letztes Update 09.07.2024 · 4 Min. Lesezeit

Key Takeaways

  • The copper IUD is a popular alternative for many who want to use hormone-free contraception.
  • The use of the copper IUD does not affect the natural hormonal balance or metabolism.
  • In this article, we list the advantages and disadvantages of the method.

Anyone who has already looked into hormone-free contraceptives will likely be familiar with the copper IUD: it is one of the best-known methods that works entirely without hormones. Here we explain how it works, what its advantages and disadvantages are, and how safe the IUD is.

What is a Copper IUD?

The copper IUD is the most commonly used intrauterine device (IUD). It works according to the same principle as the hormonal IUD, but without hormones. Its effect is local, caused by biochemical changes. Using the copper IUD does not affect the body’s natural hormone balance or metabolism.

How Does a Copper IUD Work?

The T-shaped device is made of plastic and wrapped with a thin copper wire that releases copper ions. It measures about 2.5 to 3.5 centimeters and is placed inside the uterus. The copper has a spermicidal effect, impairing the survival and mobility of sperm. In addition,...

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Medically Reviewed

This text was created by medical editors on the basis of specialist medical literature and current studies. Our aim is to work scientifically, identify sources and regularly check that the content is up to date.


References & Literature

  1. Tramontana A. Contraception Part V – Hormone-free intrauterine contraception: copper IUD, copper chain, copper bead ball. Gynecological Endocrinology. 2016; 10/1):24-26.
  2. Familienplanung.de: The Spiral (Copper Spiral). 2019 [cited 21.07.2021]. Available at: https://www.familienplanung.de/verhuetung/verhuetungsmethoden/kupferspirale/
  3. Zeiss R, Graf H, Gahr M, Schönfeldt-Lecuona C. Intrauterine pessaries with levonorgestrel: Depression in women using a hormonal IUD. Deutsches Ärzteblatt. 2020; 117(40). Available at: https://www.aerzteblatt.de/archiv/215972/Intrauterin-Pessare-mit-Levonorgestrel-Depressionen-unter-der-Hormonspirale#literatur
  4. profamilia. Pearl Index. n.d. [cited 21.07.2021]. Available at: https://www.profamilia.de/themen/verhuetung/pearl-index

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