Copper IUD

The copper IUD (intrauterine device) is a small, flexible T-shaped plastic device wrapped with copper that’s placed inside your uterus to prevent pregnancy.
There are 2 thin threads attached to the tip of the IUD, which hang a little bit out of the cervix, deep inside the vagina.
You can only feel the threads if you place your finger deep into your vagina. The threads are not commonly felt during sex.
A health care provider can place or remove the IUD during a pelvic exam.
The copper IUD is one of the most effective birth control methods available — it’s 99% effective in preventing pregnancy, and it works for up 12 years.¹
The copper IUD is low maintenance. There’s no chance of forgetting to take it or using it incorrectly.
If you decide you want to get pregnant, a health care provider can remove the IUD and you can try to get pregnant right away.
A common copper IUD brand is Paragard.

Copper on the IUD causes sperm cells to stop moving, keeping them from reaching the egg. Since the sperm and egg can’t meet, a pregnancy isn’t possible.

Because of the Affordable Care Act, Kaiser Permanente members can get certain types of birth control methods at low or no cost. Check with Member Services or your health care provider for details.

The copper IUD must be placed by a health care provider.
The one-time procedure only takes a few minutes.
The clinician puts a special tool called a speculum into your vagina and uses an applicator to insert the IUD through the opening of your cervix and into your uterus. It is common to have cramping for a few minutes during this process. Your health care provider can address ways of easing cramping.

The copper IUD is safe and 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
It’s a long-term birth control method, lasting up to 10 to 12 years. It is also reversible and can be stopped quickly at any time.
There’s no daily or regular maintenance, and you don’t need to go to the pharmacy for refills. It works until it expires or you have it taken out.
It can be used immediately after you have a baby and while you’re breastfeeding.
The copper IUD won’t affect your fertility.² You can try to get pregnant once your health care provider removes the IUD.
It has no hormones.
It’s the most effective form of emergency contraception, at nearly 100%, when placed within 5 days after unprotected sex.³

The copper IUD doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs/STDs), including HIV. Even if you have an IUD, you should use a condom every time you have sex to reduce your chances of getting or spreading STIs.
You may experience cramps or backaches during the IUD insertion and for a few days after the procedure. Taking an over-the-counter pain medication, like ibuprofen, as directed can help.
Some people have heavier, longer periods and more cramping for the first few months. These symptoms can often be treated with ibuprofen or prescription medications. Talk to your health care provider if you are bothered by your periods while using the copper IUD.
Serious complications and side effects are rare. They may include: The IUD can poke through the wall of the uterus, the IUD can fall out of the uterus, or you can get an infection.

You can have the copper IUD taken out by a health care provider whenever you want. You should get it taken out after 12 years, when the copper IUD expires.

Copper IUD removal is a quick procedure. The clinician gently pulls on the strings, and the IUD usually slips out easily with minimal or no discomfort.