Copper T – effectiveness, benefits and side effects

Here is all that you need to know about this intrauterine device

By: Debjani Arora | | Updated: March 17, 2015 6:45 pm

When we talk about contraception, all we can think of are condoms, emergency pills and birth control pills. However, there are more methods that one can opt for to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. There are intrauterine devices or IUDs that are thought to be safe, inexpensive and an effective form of contraception that also provides protection for up to five years. These devices are tiny and come in the shape of a ‘T’ made up of plastic, wrapped in copper. The most common one used in India is sold under the name of Copper T. Here are 8 kinds of contraceptives you should know about.

What is Copper T?

Copper T is an intrauterine device which is said to be an effective form of contraception for women. This option is usually given to women who have delivered a baby in the past. Insertion of Copper T is an invasive procedure that needs to be conducted by an expert. The device is placed into the uterus of the woman with a plastic string tied to the end of the IUD hanging from the cervix to the vagina. Here is all you need to know about female condoms and how to use them.

How is a Copper T inserted?

The end of the T is folded and inserted into the patient with the straw-like tube pointing outward. Once in place, the spermicidal effects of the Copper T are in effect, and the tiny piece of plastic and copper becomes a birth control device. This shape is chosen as it fits the area around the uterus, allowing the Copper T to sit in place for years without moving around. Here are five myths and facts about birth control pill you need to know.

What are the different kinds of IUDs available?

There are two kinds of IUDs available:

Hormonal IUDs: In hormonal IUDs, which are a variation of copper IUD, the devices release a type of hormone called ‘progestin’ that prevents fertilisation of an egg and further implantation on the uterus walls.
Copper IUDs: In the copper IUDs, copper acts as a toxin to the sperms. It makes the uterus and fallopian tubes produce fluid that kills sperm. This fluid contains white blood cells, copper ions, enzymes, and prostaglandins that prevent the sperm from fertilising an ovum after intercourse. Here are three things you need to do if you have sex without a condom.

How does Copper T work?
Once a Copper T is in place, the copper ions produced from the wire wrapped around the plastic T influence the uterine environment to prevent pregnancy. The copper ions get mixed with the uterine fluids and cervix mucus. This uterine fluid, rich in copper, acts as a spermicide which kills sperms that come in contact with it. Copper ions prevent pregnancy by inhibiting the movement of sperm because copper-ion-containing fluids are directly toxic to sperm. Even if an aggressive little spermatozoa fertilizes an egg, the copper ion laden environment prevents implantation of the fertilized egg, thus preventing pregnancy.

How effective is a Copper T?
Once placed in the uterus, a device like Copper T can provide protection for about a decade. However, it also depends on its manufacturing process; some of the devices provide protection for only about five years. The long lasting effects make this IUD an exceptionally inexpensive method, which doesn’t require taking a pill or putting on a condom. However, when a couple wishes to try for a baby, the device can be taken out (through a simple procedure by an expert) to help one conceive. In most cases, a Copper T can provide up to 98 percent of protection from unwanted pregnancy. However, Copper T does not affect one’s fertility. Once the device is removed, the contraceptive’s effects are reversed, and conception is usually smooth in most cases.

What are the side effects of copper T?

Although, insertion of Copper T is thought to be a safe mode of contraception, there are a few side effects of the device.

Untimely bleeding: Many women complain of untimely bleeding after insertion of Copper T. This usually happens during the initial few months, after placing the device. Also, incidences of menstrual-like cramping are reported by few women. These cramps are different from those of menstrual cramps. Intermenstrual bleeding subsides after a few days and painkillers can at times help in dealing with the cramps.
Allergy: This is rare, but in some cases women who are allergic to copper can get severe rashes and itching in the genitals after the insertion. In such cases, removal of the device is the best resort. A woman should be counselled about the different varieties of contraception available.
Automatic ejection: There are times when the woman might face automatic expulsion of the device during or after insertion. This is more common during the initial months after insertion or when the device is inserted right after childbirth or without experiencing a pregnancy.
Problems in the uterus: A uterus cut or puncture during insertion is also common. In some cases, it is also seen that the device perforates the uterus wall and leads to internal injuries or bleeding. If not removed immediately, it could lead to infections in the uterus.

Image source: Getty Images

Published: March 17, 2015 6:36 pm | Updated:March 17, 2015 6:45 pm

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