You want a differentcontraceptive, without hormones? The copper IUD could be a solution for you. But you probably have many questions. Does it hurt? Can all women use a copper IUD? And above all: Does it bring significant changes to my menstrual cycle? It is time to take a closer look at this contraceptive method, which is all too often forgotten, to better understand how it works and what effects it has on menstruation.
What is a copper spiral?
In light of the rumor about the alleged risk of infertility supposedly associated with the IUD, one might think that it is not necessarily the first choice of women for contraception. And yet, the copper IUD (intrauterine device) is particularly in demand today. Where does this enthusiasm come from? After the scandals surrounding the contraceptive pills of the 3rd and 4th generation, women today are increasingly leaning towards the hormone-free IUD. Additionally, they also have the very intimate desire to better understand their bodies and their menstrual cycles.
It is important to know the difference between the copper IUD and its counterpart, the hormonal IUD. In the latter, a progestin hormone, levonorgestrel, is continuously released into the uterus. This thickens the so-called cervical mucus , making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. Unlike taking a pill , ovulation is not stopped, but the uterine lining can no longer accept an egg.
The intrauterine device made of copper has the special feature of working mechanically. Thanks to the copper wrapped around the famous "T" made of plastic, the sperm are rendered inactive and the inflammatory response of the uterus prevents the implantation of an embryo in the uterine lining.
The copper IUD has, depending on the brand, not only a duration of effectiveness of 3 to 10 years, but is active from day one. For this reason, the copper IUD can also be prescribed as a emergency contraceptive in cases of unprotected intercourse.
What you should know before deciding on the copper IUD
The insertion of the spiral
A step that is feared by all of you: the spiral is usually inserted by a gynecologist, but it can also be performed by a midwife or a general practitioner, even if it is not their area of expertise.
The introduction is done with the help of a speculum, with which the spiral is pushed through a tube that goes through the cervix into the lower part of the uterus. Once it is in the uterus, the doctor cuts the two threads that lie against the cervix and the vaginal wall. This takes only a few minutes. Users report that this part is not pleasant, but fortunately, the intense pain does not last long.
"Rather, it is possible to experience pain within 24 hours after the insertion of the copper IUD. There may be contractions of the uterus that are stronger than the cramps typically associated with menstruation. As long as the body is adjusting to the device, there may be an uncomfortable feeling in the lower abdomen. In some women, there may be bleeding due to inflammation of the endometrium."
But don't panic! If you are very afraid of the pain, you can ask your doctor to prescribe you a mild painkiller that you can take before the insertion of the coil.
The advantages of this contraceptive
It is good to know that the IUD is no longer just for women who have already had children. A nullipara, i.e., a woman who has never been pregnant or has never given birth, can receive an IUD and does not have to use progesterone-based contraceptives. There are two different sizes, a "short" IUD for women without births and a "standard" IUD. For your information: The size of a standard copper IUD is a maximum of 3.5 centimeters in length and 3 centimeters in width.
Worth noting: The copper spiral is the only non-hormonal long-term contraceptive! With this method of contraception, there is no risk of thrombosis or arterial disease. Additionally, those of you who are often a bit forgetful no longer need to set an alarm every day to avoid forgetting your pill. It is a practical, discreet product that poses less risk to your health.
Furthermore, the copper coil does not affect the fertility of the woman. As soon as you have the coil removed, the natural fertilization mechanism continues to function normally.
The effects of the copper spiral on menstruation
Yes, the spiral can help you bring your period back to a more natural course, but it may not be suitable for all women.
What changes with menstruation?
As we all know, the body needs a certain adjustment period when taking or stopping hormonal contraceptives, and this can affect your health. The Mirena spiral is proof of this: some women report numerous side effects, such as severe depression and a significant loss of libido. Progestin- and/or estrogen-containing contraceptives can disrupt the menstrual cycle and prevent pregnancy. However, taking the birth control pill e.g. can also have disadvantages:
- weight gain;
- Acne;
- mood swings;
- Vaginal dryness;
- chest pain;
- loss of libido.
Some users are lucky that their menstruation quickly adjusts after using contraceptives. The advantage of a hormonal contraceptive method like the pill is that menstruation is less painful or almost completely pain-free, occurs regularly, is lighter, or may even be completely absent!
The copper spiral allows your body to run free in a different way. However, there are still a few side effects, e.g. a longer, more painful, and stronger period than usual. It can take about 6 months for the menstruation to return to the strength of your first teenage periods. The side effects also include the risk of complete or partial expulsion, which is rare, as well as perforation of the uterus. In any case, your menstruation will be stronger; it is up to you to control it optimally.
A little tip: Make sure to choose the right menstrual hygiene and take your natural remedies in a balanced way. Anabsorbent menstrual underwear is the ideal choice in this case to protect you optimally and permanently.
Is the copper coil suitable for all women?
"If you already have heavy and very painful menstrual bleeding or suffer from endometriosis, the copper IUD is of course not recommended. In this case, it is preferable to use a progesterone IUD or another hormonal method that compensates for the heavy bleeding."
"In addition, the copper spiral is contraindicated in the following conditions:"
- Fibroma;
- malformation of the uterus;
- Inflammation of theendometrium (endometritis)
- unexplained bleeding;
- Uterine cancer;
- untreated or not healed for 3 months sexually transmitted infection.
Indeed, this medical device must be inserted into a "healthy" uterus to avoid complications from an existing gynecological condition. Another important point is that if you notice unusual bleeding or pain, you should inform your gynecologist or doctor immediately.
And, what cannot be repeated often enough: the copper spiral does not protect, like any other contraceptive method except for the condom, against sexually transmitted infections (STI).
Nevertheless, the decision about which contraceptive method you want to use lies solely with you as a woman. To feel comfortable, it is important to be in harmony with your body and to understand your menstrual cycle.
