There has been a growing trend towards improving contraception and birth control. Among other methods, a non-hormonal copper intrauterine device (IUD) has gained significance. It is an excellent alternative to emergency contraceptive pills. Moreover, its convenience and safety factors have increased its popularity worldwide.
Are you planning to use a copper IUD for birth control? Find out some useful and interesting facts about copper IUDs to make an informed decision.
Women often wonder what to know before getting an IUD. This is mainly because the procedure of inserting an object inside the uterus sounds scary and risky. Therefore, people need to know all about it before starting the procedure.
Even though it sounds scary, this procedure is quite simple. Let us summarise some effects, benefits and other necessary facts for you in the following sections below.
As discussed already, the primary purpose of a Copper IUD or ParaGard is used to ensure safe and long-term birth control. It is a plastic T-shaped device, almost the size of a quarter.
The effectiveness of a copper IUD is probably responsible for its popularity. It is highly effective in preventing unwanted pregnancy and can be used for a long time, about ten years. However, while it is 99% effective in the first year, the effectiveness might reduce to 98% by the 10th year of its usage.
It is essential to know the exact affecting areas of a copper IUD:
Hence, consult a doctor before implanting this type of contraception if you have these conditions.
Apart from effectiveness and benefits, there are some facts about copper IUD essential for you to know:
Therefore, copper IUDs are the most suitable form of contraception for new mothers.
Before using a copper IUD you must not only keep in mind the above facts but also understand the preparation tips properly:
Tip 1: A copper IUD is usually inserted at any time during a regular menstrual cycle.
Tip 2: However, women who recently gave birth might be advised to wait for about 7-8 weeks before inserting this contraception.
Therefore, if you are planning to get this implant, the best advice is to visit your doctor and get a comprehensive evaluation.
Here is what your doctor will do:
Now, let us get into the details of the insertion and removal procedure.
It is beneficial to know the things that you can expect during and after the procedure.
Step 1: The procedure starts with doctors inserting a speculum into your vagina.
Step 2: Next, they use an antiseptic solution to clean the vagina and cervix.
Step 3: Then, they try to align the cervical canal and uterine cavity gently.
Step 4:The doctors then fold the horizontal arms of the IUD while placing it inside an applicator tube.
Step 5: While they insert the IUD in your uterus, the tube is placed into your cervical canal. Thus, when they remove the applicator tube later, the device remains in its original position.
Doctors sometimes prefer trimming the strings of a ParaGard to avoid its intrusion far inside the vagina. As a result, you might experience some health issues as side effects, for which you can seek medical attention. Here are some additional things you need to follow:
If you wish to remove the IUD or if it expires after ten years, you will have to undergo the removal procedure. For this, you need to do the following:
Step 1: Visit a hospital or a clinic with a professional healthcare provider.
Step 2: Doctors will use forceps to grab the device's strings and gently pull it out of your vagina.
Step 3: During this time, the arms of the device will fold upwards as it comes out of the uterus.
There is no specific time frame for getting a copper IUD. It is suitable for premenopausal women. Adults are most likely to use it, as it is a long-term form of birth control, which can be utilised for up to 10 years. Therefore, women who already have kids can get this IUD to ensure a safe and convenient method of birth control free of other hassles.
While listing the facts to know about copper IUDs, it is always essential to consider the risks and side effects associated with a copper IUD. This will help you to take essential steps against these. Here are some complications you might experience from these contraceptive methods:
The cost of a copper IUD usually differs across different countries. Moreover, it is much less expensive for people who have health insurance. In countries like the US, it costs about $1,300 to get the entire procedure done.
On the other hand, in India, the price is much lower, ranging between ₹ 300 and ₹ 500 in private setups. In addition, the Indian government offers free-of-cost surgeries with IUDs for families who are planning birth control.
One thing you must know about copper IUDs is that it is only for some. Therefore, it is essential to know about the restrictions if you plan to get this insertion. As per the opinions of clinical researchers, you should avoid getting a copper IUD if you suffer from the following conditions.
Thus, you should avoid getting a copper IUD insertion if you suffer from such conditions. This insertion can further worsen your condition, developing side effects.
Hopefully, these top ten facts about copper IUDs will help you better understand such a form of contraception and its insertion. As this article pointed out, this insertion is a beneficial form of contraception. However, it might have some risks and side effects. So make sure to know all about these and get a complete check-up before attempting the procedure.