The copper IUD, sometimes called a coil or copper coil, is a non-hormonal birth control option and also an effective form of emergency contraception if placed in the uterus within 5 days of unprotected sex.
Bodyvie offers a non-hormonal birth control option with the added function of being an effective method of emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex- the copper intrauterine device (IUD). The IUD can also be put in at any time during your menstrual cycle, as long as you’re not pregnant.
A coil is a low-maintenance option as it is inserted into the uterus and can stay in place for 12 years, preventing pregnancy with a 99.9% success rate. It works by stopping the egg and sperm from surviving in the womb or the fallopian tubes.
The IUD is sometimes referred to as the copper coil and has been around since the 1970s.
IUD’s are small, copper T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus through the vagina by your doctor. Copper is the active component that kills sperm. The copper wire coiled around the device produces an inflammatory reaction that is toxic to sperm and eggs, thus preventing pregnancy. The device has two threads that hang down to enable you to check that it is in place and to allow your doctor to remove it at a later date.
Once inserted, the IUD can stay in the uterus for up to 5-10 years, effectively preventing pregnancy without impacting future fertility and is easily reversible should you decide you want to become pregnant or use alternative contraception.
Because the IUD can be fitted into the uterus for 5-10 years it is low-maintenance and other than requiring intermittent checks, can essentially be forgotten about.
The copper IUD is very unique compared to IUS’s like the Mirena and Jaydess because it can be used as emergency contraception. The IUD must be inserted within 5 days after having unprotected sex but is 99.9% effective, more effective than hormonal emergency birth control.
Another benefit of the copper IUD is that it is non-hormonal which may better suit women with certain medical conditions. The downside of being non-hormonal, the IUD can increase menstrual bleeding and amplify monthly cramps. These side effects can subside 3-6 months after insertion.
