What it is used for
- Long-term hormone-free contraception
- Emergency contraception when fitted soon after unprotected sex
How it works
A small device containing copper placed in the womb. Copper changes the environment in the womb and tubes so that sperm cannot fertilise an egg, and it contains no hormones.
How it is taken
Fitted into the womb by a trained clinician and left in place for several years. It works immediately and needs no daily action. Follow your clinician's advice on checking the threads and when it must be replaced or removed.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Heavier or longer periods, especially at first
- More period cramping
- Spotting between periods early on
Serious effects — get help
- Severe pelvic pain or fever after fitting (possible infection)
- Signs the device has moved or been expelled
- Severe one-sided abdominal pain (possible ectopic pregnancy)
- Perforation of the womb (rare)
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- No significant medicine interactions because it contains no hormones
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician about any current pelvic infection, very heavy periods, or possible pregnancy before fitting
- May not suit people who already have very heavy or painful periods
- Small risk of infection in the weeks after insertion
- Does not protect against STIs