Reviewed by a GPhC-registered Pharmacist at Newdays Pharmacy
Quick Answer: The copper intrauterine device (IUD), often called the copper coil, is a small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a trained clinician. It contains no hormones, is over 99 percent effective, and can last five to ten years depending on the type. It is also the most effective form of emergency contraception available if inserted within five days of unprotected sex.
What Is the Copper IUD?
The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, flexible T-shaped plastic frame wrapped in copper wire. It is inserted into the uterus through the vagina and cervix by a specially trained clinician, usually under local anaesthetic. No hormones are involved, making it suitable for people who cannot or prefer not to use hormonal contraception.
Copper is toxic to sperm. The copper ions released by the device impair sperm motility and viability, preventing fertilisation. The device also causes a mild inflammatory response in the uterine lining, which further inhibits fertilisation and implantation. It does not affect ovulation.
How Effective Is the Copper IUD?
The copper IUD is one of the most effective forms of contraception available, with a failure rate of less than one percent per year with typical use. Over ten years of use, fewer than two women in every hundred will become pregnant. Once removed, fertility returns promptly.
How Long Does the Copper IUD Last?
Different copper IUDs are licensed for different durations. The most commonly used devices in the UK include:
- Copper T 380A: Licensed for ten years; one of the most widely used worldwide
- TT 380 Slimline: Licensed for ten years; a narrower device sometimes preferred for women who have not had children
- T-Safe 380A QL: Licensed for ten years
- Nova T 380: Licensed for five years
The specific device chosen will depend on your anatomy, history, and clinical assessment. A trained clinician will discuss the most appropriate option with you.
What Are the Advantages of the Copper IUD?
- Hormone-free: Suitable for women who cannot take oestrogen or who prefer to avoid all hormones
- Highly effective: Over 99 percent effective
- Long-lasting: Up to ten years without needing to think about contraception
- Immediately reversible: Fertility returns promptly after removal
- Cost-effective: One insertion covers many years
- Emergency use: Can be used as emergency contraception up to five days after unprotected sex
- Not affected by other medicines: Unlike hormonal contraception, the copper IUD does not interact with enzyme-inducing medications such as some epilepsy drugs
What Are the Disadvantages and Possible Side Effects?
- Heavier, more painful periods: The most common reason for discontinuation. Periods may become heavier, longer, and more crampy, particularly in the first few months after insertion
- Irregular bleeding or spotting: Especially in the initial weeks after insertion
- Insertion discomfort: The insertion procedure causes cramping, which most women describe as similar to strong period pain
- Small risk of expulsion: The IUD can occasionally be partially or fully expelled from the uterus, particularly in the first year
- Small risk of perforation: A very rare complication during insertion, occurring in approximately one to two per thousand insertions
- Ectopic pregnancy: If pregnancy does occur despite the IUD, there is an increased risk it may be ectopic (outside the uterus). If you think you may be pregnant with an IUD in place, seek urgent medical attention
Who Is the Copper IUD Not Suitable For?
The copper IUD is not suitable for women with:
- Current or recent pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or sexually transmitted infection
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Uterine abnormalities that distort the uterine cavity (such as large fibroids)
- Wilson’s disease (a copper metabolism disorder)
- Known or suspected pregnancy
- History of ectopic pregnancy (requires specialist discussion, not absolute contraindication)
Can I Get a Copper IUD Fitted at a Pharmacy?
IUD insertion must be performed by a clinician with specialist training in IUD insertion. This is not currently a service provided in pharmacy settings. Copper IUD fitting is available at NHS sexual health clinics, most GP practices with a trained fit provider, and some private clinics.
At Newdays Pharmacy, we provide contraception consultations where our pharmacists can discuss all your contraceptive options in detail and direct you to the most appropriate local service for IUD fitting.
Book Now: Book a Contraception Consultation at Newdays Pharmacy
Clinical Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any treatment or medication. Information is accurate as of the date of publication and reviewed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most women experience cramping during and shortly after insertion. The Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare (FSRH) recommends taking ibuprofen or another NSAID approximately one hour before the procedure to reduce discomfort. The procedure itself typically takes five to ten minutes. Some women feel fine immediately afterwards; others prefer to rest for the remainder of the day.
Yes. The copper IUD is the most effective form of emergency contraception available, reducing the risk of pregnancy by more than 99 percent when inserted within five days of unprotected sex or within five days of the earliest estimated date of ovulation. You must contact a sexual health clinic or GP surgery urgently for this, as insertion requires a trained clinician.
No. The copper IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. If there is a risk of STI exposure, condoms should be used as well.