Copper IUD Flashcards
1
Q
Copper IUD: How it works
A
By preventing fertilisation and inhibiting implantation
2
Q
Copper IUD: Duration of use
A
- 5–10 years for IUDs with 380 mm2 copper, depending on type
- Until contraception no longer needed if woman 40 years or more at time of insertion
3
Q
Copper IUD: Failure rate
A
- Fewer than 2 in 100 women over 5 years, for IUDs with at least 380 mm2 copper
- Expulsion occurs in fewer than 1 in 20 women in 5 years
4
Q
Copper IUD: Effects on the periods
A
Heavier bleeding and/or dysmenorrhoea likely
5
Q
Copper IUD: Other risks
A
- Up to 50% of women stop using IUDs within 5 years; most common reasons are unacceptable vaginal bleeding and pain
- Ectopic pregnancy: overall rates lower than with no contraception But if a woman becomes pregnant with IUD in situ, risk is about 1 in 20 so she should seek advice to exclude it
- Pelvic inflammatory disease: less than 1% for women at low risk of STI
- Uterine perforation: less than 1 in 1000
- Change in mood or libido: may be a small effect, similar for IUD and IUS
- No evidence of effect on: Weight gain
6
Q
Copper IUD: Return to fertility
A
No delay in return of fertiity
7
Q
Copper IUD: At the time of fitting
A
- There may be pain and discomfort for a few hours and light bleeding for a few days
- Watch for symptoms of uterine perforation
- Follow‑up visit after first menses or 3–6 weeks after insertion
- Return at any time if problems or to change method
- Check for threads regularly
8
Q
Copper IUD: When can it be fitted
A
- At any time during the menstrual cycle
- Immediately after first- or second‑trimester abortion, or at any time thereafter
- From 4 weeks post‑partum, irrespective of the mode of delivery
- Emergency drugs including anti‑epileptic medication should be available at the time of IUD insertion in a woman with epilepsy because there may be an increased risk of a seizure at the time of cervical dilation.
