Washington University School of Medicine, Department of OB/GYN, Campus Box 8219, 4533 Clayton Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63110-1501
Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD) FACT SHEET
The copper IUD is a small, T-shaped device of soft plastic and copper that is placed in the uterus. The
copper IUD, also known as ParaGard® has copper and does not have any hormones. IUD’s prevent
sperm from joining with an egg. The IUD is one of the most effective forms of contraception, more than
99% effective.
o IUD’s are inserted after a pelvic exam. Your clinician will place a speculum and steady your
cervix with an instrument. The IUD will be placed through the opening in your cervix into the
uterus. You may feel cramping during the procedure. A short length of plastic “string” will hang
down inside your vagina. You can check the string to make sure the IUD is still in place.
o The IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms are the
best way for sexually active people to reduce the risk of infection. Always use a condom to
prevent STIs.
Advantages of the copper IUD:
o Highly effective reversible birth control
o Works immediately upon insertion
o Can be used while breastfeeding
o Nothing to do right before sex to make it work
o Ability to become pregnant should return quickly when removed
o No hormones
o Approved for 10 years and may be effective for longer
o Can use for emergency contraception
Disadvantages of the IUD:
o Possible side-effects that may improve over the first 3 to 6 months
o Heavier, longer periods or increased menstrual cramps
o Cramping or backache
o Irregular periods or spotting between periods
Risks of using the IUD:
o Perforation – Very rarely, the IUD is pushed into and through the wall of the uterus during
insertion. This is called perforation. It could damage your internal organs. Sometimes surgery
is needed to remove the IUD.
o Expulsion – Occasionally, the IUD will partly or completely slip out of the uterus. This is called
expulsion. You can become pregnant if it happens.
o Pregnancy – The chance that a pregnancy will happen is very small. If it does, there is an
increased risk of serious, problems including ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, infection, miscarriage,
and early labor and delivery. We recommend immediate evaluation and removal of the IUD if
this happens.
o Infection – PID (pelvic inflammatory disease) associated with using an IUD is rare. PID may
lead to sterility. Most PID related to IUD use occurs within three weeks of insertion.
