This section describes primarily the TCu-380A intrauterine device (read about the Levonorgestrel Intrauterine Device).

What Is the Intrauterine Device?

• The copper-bearing intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, flexible plastic frame with copper sleeves or wire around it. A specifically trained health care provider inserts it into a woman’s uterus through her vagina and cervix.
• Almost all types of IUDs have one or two strings, or threads, tied to them. The strings hang through the cervix into the vagina.
• Works primarily by causing a chemical change that damages sperm and egg before they can meet.

How Effective?

One of the most effective and long-lasting methods:

Less than 1 pregnancy per 100 women using an IUD over the first year (6 to 8 per 1,000 women). This means that 992 to 994 of every 1,000 women using IUDs will not become pregnant.

A small risk of pregnancy remains beyond the first year of use and continues as long as the woman is using the IUD.

– Over 10 years of IUD use: About 2 pregnancies per 100 women

Studies have found that the TCu-380A is effective for 12 years. The TCu-380A is labeled for up to 10 years of use, however. (Providers should follow program guidelines as to when the IUD should be removed.)

Return of fertility after IUD is removed: no delay

Protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs): none

Some users report the following:

Changes in bleeding patterns (especially in the first 3 to 6 months) including:

– Prolonged and heavy monthly bleeding

– Irregular bleeding

– More cramps and pain during monthly bleeding

Known Health Benefits

Helps protect against:

Risks of pregnancy

May help protect against:

Cancer of the lining of the uterus (endometrial cancer

Known Health Risks

Uncommon: may contribute to anemia if a woman already has low iron blood stores before insertion and the IUD causes heavier monthly bleeding

Rare: pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) may occur if the woman has chlamydia or gonorrhea at the time of IUD insertion

Rare: puncturing (perforation) of the wall of the uterus by the IUD or an instrument used for insertion. Usually heals without treatment.

Miscarriage, preterm birth, or infection in the rare case that the woman becomes pregnant with the IUD in place.

• Intrauterine devices: rarely lead to PID.
• Do not increase the risk of contracting STIs, including HIV.
• Do not increase the risk of miscarriage when a woman becomes pregnant after the IUD is removed.
• Do not make women infertile.
• Do not cause birth defects.
• Do not cause cancer.
• Do not move to the heart or brain.
• Do not cause discomfort or pain for the woman during sex.
• Substantially reduce the risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Why Some Women Say They Like the IUD

• Prevents pregnancy very effectively
• Is long-lasting
• Has no further costs after the IUD is inserted
• Does not require the user to do anything once the IUD is inserted