Copper IUD against Hormonal Diu: thorough comparison of two very popular contraceptive options for women’s health.

When it comes to reversible prolonged action contraceptives (LARC), two popular options for women are the copper intrauterine device (IUD) and the hormonal intrauterine device (IUD). Both are very effective to prevent pregnancy and have their own advantages and disadvantages.

The copper IUD, also known as no n-hormonal IUD, is a small T-shaped device that the health professional introduces into the uterus. It is made of copper, which acts as a spermicide, preventing sperm from ferting the ovule. Copper IUD is one of the most effective contraceptive methods, with a failure rate of less than 1%. It can provide pregnancy protection up to 10 years and is an ideal option for women who prefer a contraceptive method without hormones.

Important information: copper IUD does not affect hormonal balance and does not alter the menstrual cycle of women. However, it can cause more abundant and prolonged menstruations in some women, which can be a disadvantage for those who already experience abundant menstrual bleeding.

1. On the other hand, hormonal IDUs release small amounts of progestin, a synthetic hormone, in the uterus. This hormone acts thickening the cervical mucus, thus preventing sperm reaching the ovule. The uterine mucosa also thinns, making it less receptive to the embryo in case fertilization occurs. Hormonal DUUs have a high efficiency index, with a failure rate less than 1%. They provide pregnancy protection up to 3-6 years, depending on the brand.
2. Important information: One of the advantages of hormonal IUDs is that they can lighten menstrual bleeding and reduce cramps in many women. However, some women may experience irregular bleeding, spots or changes in their menstrual patterns during the first months of use.

When comparing the two types of IUD, it is important that women take into account their personal preferences, their medical history and their contraceptive objectives. An exhaustive consultation with a healthcare professional can help determine which option is the most appropriate for each woman.

Copper IUD: Pros and Cons

Advantages:

• Very effective: the copper IUD has an efficiency of more than 99% in pregnancy prevention. Once inserted, it provides continuous protection of up to 10 years, which makes it one of the most reliable contraceptive methods.
• It is not hormonal: one of the main advantages of the copper IUD is that it does not introduce hormones in the body. This is especially beneficial for women sensitive to hormonal contraceptives or who prefer a natural contraceptive method.
• It does not affect fertility: unlike other contraceptive methods, such as hormonal contraceptives or sterilization, copper IUD does not affect lon g-term fertility. Once extracted, the fertility of women returns to normal with relative speed.

Disadvantages:

• Most abundant and prolonged menstruations: one of the possible side effects of the copper IUD is that it can cause more abundant and long menstruations. This is because the presence of copper can cause an inflammatory response in the uterus, which increases menstrual bleeding.
• Crabres and discomfort: Some women may experience an increase in cramps and discomfort during menstruation after the insertion of a copper IUD. It is a frequent side effect, but it usually improves after a few months.
• Expulsion risk: Although it is rare, there is a small risk that the copper IUD will be expelled from the uterus. If this occurs, the device will cease to be effective in preventing pregnancy and will be necessary to reintegrate it.

In general, copper IUD offers a very effective and lasting contraceptive option for women who prefer a no n-hormonal contraceptive method. Although it may have some side effects, the advantages often exceed the risks for many women.

Effectiveness, Side Effects, and Duration

Efficacy: Both copper and hormonal IUD are very effective in preventing pregnancy. The copper IUD, also known as no n-hormonal IUD, acts by releasing copper ions that create an inhospitable environment for sperm, preventing fertilization. This type of IUD has an efficacy greater than 99% in pregnancy prevention. On the other hand, hormonal IUDs, such as IDU based on Levonorgestrel, release a small amount of progestin hormone in the uterus. They act thickening the cervical mucus, diluting the uterine coating and, sometimes, inhibiting ovulation. Hormonal IUDs have an efficacy greater than 99% in pregnancy prevention.

Table 1: Comparison of Copper IUD and Hormonal IUD

Factor	Copper IUD	Hormonal ID
Effectiveness	More than 99	More than 99
Side effects	Heavier or more painful menstruations	Irregular bleeding, hormonal side effects
Duration	Up to 10 years	Between 3 and 7 years

Side effects: Both types of IUDs can have side effects, although they vary. Copper IUDs can cause heavier or more painful periods, especially during the first few months. This side effect usually improves over time. On the other hand, hormonal IUDs can cause irregular bleeding, especially during the first months of use. Some women may also experience hormonal side effects such as breast tenderness, mood swings, or acne. It is important to note that these side effects tend to subside over time as the body adapts to the IUD.

Duration: Another important consideration is the duration of effectiveness of each IUD. Copper IUDs can last up to 10 years, providing long-term contraceptive protection without the need for frequent replacements. Hormonal IUDs, however, have a shorter lifespan and typically need to be replaced every 3 to 7 years, depending on the specific brand or type.

Hormonal IUD: Benefits and Drawbacks

Advantages of the hormonal IUD:

• Very effective: The hormonal IUD is one of the most effective contraceptive methods available, with a failure rate of less than 1%. This means that for every 100 women who use the hormonal IUD for a year, less than one becomes pregnant.
• Long-term contraception: Once inserted, the hormonal IUD provides continuous contraception for several years, depending on the specific brand. This eliminates the need for daily or monthly contraception and reduces the risk of missed doses.
• Lighter and shorter periods: Many women experience a decrease in menstrual flow and pain after using the hormonal IUD. Some even notice that menstruation lightens or stops completely.

Disadvantages of the hormonal IUD:

• Side effects: Although the hormonal IUD is usually well tolerated, some women may experience side effects such as irregular bleeding, spotting, headaches, breast tenderness, and mood changes. These side effects are usually temporary and improve over time.
• Initial Discomfort: Insertion of the hormonal IUD may cause mild to moderate discomfort and cramps. However, they are usually short-lived and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Cost: Although the hormonal IUD is cost-effective in the long term, the initial cost of insertion can be a barrier for some women. However, many insurance plans cover the cost of the device and the insertion procedure.

“Hormonal IDU is a very effective and comfortable contraceptive method, which offers lon g-term protection against pregnancy. Although it can cause some initial side effects and discomfort, the advantages it provides, as lighter menstruations and greater contraceptive efficacy, they usually compensateThe inconveniences. “

Impact on Menstrual Cycle and Hormone Levels

Copper IUD: Copper IUD, also known as Copper Intrauterine Device, works by releasing small amounts of copper ions in the uterus. This creates an inhospitable environment for sperm, preventing fertilization. One of the main effects of copper IUD in the menstrual cycle is that it can cause more abundant and long rules. This is due to the inflammatory effect of copper on the uterine coating, which causes an increase in blood flow during menstruation. It is important to keep in mind that most women adapt to these changes over time, and abundant hemorrhages tend to decrease after the first months of using the copper IUD.

Important note: Although copper IUD does not contain hormones, its effect on the menstrual cycle can be significant. Therefore, women who already have abundant or prolonged menstruations are recommended to carefully consider the possible impact of the copper IUD on their menstrual flow and in their general comfort during menstruation.

Hormonal IUD: Unlike copper IUD, hormonal IUD contains a progestine hormone called Levonorgestrel. This hormone is slowly released in the uterus, which causes different effects. One of the main effects of hormonal IDU is the weight loss of the uterine lining, which causes lighter and shorter menstruations. Some women can even experience a decrease in the frequency of their menstrual cycles. In addition, hormonal IUD can relieve women who suffer from menstrual pains or abundant hemorrhages.

Important note: Hormonal ID can affect the organism’s hormonal levels. Although systemic hormonal effects are minimal compared to other hormonal contraceptive methods, it is important to take into account the possible contraindications or side effects related to hormonal changes when opting for a hormonal IUD.

Ultimately, the choice between a copper IUD and a hormonal IUD depends on the individual preferences and specific medical considerations. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to determine what type of IUD is the most appropriate depending on the menstrual cycle, hormonal balance and the general state of health.

Choosing the Right IUD: Factors to Consider

The copper IUD, also known as no n-hormonal or copper spiral, is a small flexible plastic device with a wrapped copper thread around. On the other hand, the hormonal release releases in the uterus a low dose of progestin, a synthetic hormone. A crucial factor to take into account is contraceptive efficacy. According to research, both types of IUDs are very effective, with failure rates less than 1%. However, it is important to point out that hormonal IUD is slightly more effective than copper IUD to prevent pregnancy.

Contraceptive efficacy: Both copper and hormonal IDU are very effective, with failure rates less than 1%, but hormonal ID can offer slightly higher protection against pregnancy.

Another factor to consider is the duration of the contraception provided by each type of IUD. The copper IUD has the advantage of its longevity, with a useful life of up to 10 years, which makes it an adequate option for people who want lon g-term contraception. On the other hand, hormonal IUDs usually last between 3 and 5 years, depending on the concrete brand and type. Therefore, if you prefer a temporary form of contraception or you have plans to conceive in a few years, the hormonal ID can be a better option.

Contraception duration: copper IUDs can last up to 10 years, while hormonal IUDs usually last between 3 and 5 years. Consider your lon g-term contraceptive needs before making a decision.

In addition, it is essential to take into account the hormonal effects of the two types of IUD. The hormonal IUD releases a small amount of progestogen, which can lead to lighter menstruations or the absence of menstruation in some people. This can be beneficial for those who have abundant or painful menstruations. On the other hand, the copper IUD does not contain hormones and, therefore, does not affect the natural menstrual cycle. If you prefer to avoid hormonal changes or have specific medical problems, copper IUD can be the most appropriate option.

Hormonal effects: Hormonal ID can cause lighter rules or their absence, while copper IUD does not affect the natural menstrual cycle. Take into account your menstrual preferences and any medical problem before making a decision.

Lifestyle, Personal Preferences, and Medical History

Lifestyle: a person’s lifestyle plays a crucial role when determining the most appropriate contraceptive option. Factors such as sexual activity, frequency of sexual relations and the desire for long or short term contraception can influence the decisio n-making process. For people with a busy lifestyle or those who prefer not to worry about daily compliance, reversible prolonged action contraceptives (LARC), such as intrauterine devices (IUD), can be a practical option for their effectiveness and low maintenance.

Personal preferences: personal preferences also significantly influence contraceptive decisions. Some people may have personal or ethical concerns about the use of hormonal methods and may prefer a no n-hormonal alternative. In such cases, the copper IUD, which does not release hormones, could be preferable. On the other hand, people who want more light or more predictable menstruations can opt for hormonal IUDs, since they have the potential to provide these benefits.

Copper IUD vs Hormonal IUD: Which is More Suitable?

The copper IUD:

Copper IUD is a no n-hormonal contraceptive device that is introduced into the uterus. It is made of plastic with a cooling copper wire around. The mechanism of action of the copper IUD consists in the release of copper ions, which create a toxic environment for sperm, preventing fertilization. Unlike hormonal methods, copper IUD does not affect ovulation.

Advantages of copper IUD:

• Prolonged action method: Once inserted, copper IUD can provide contraception up to 10 years.
• It is not hormonal: this makes the copper IUD an adequate option for women who cannot or do not want to use hormonal contraceptives.
• Fast fertility recovery: unlike some hormonal methods, fertility usually recovers rapidly after the extraction of copper diu.

THE HORMONAL DIU:

The hormonal IUD, also known as Levonorgestrel IUD, is a small T-shaped device that is placed inside the uterus. Free a progestogen hormone called Levonorgestrel, which thicks the cervical mucus, inhibits the movement of sperm and thinns the lining of the uterus. These actions act together to prevent fertilization.

Advantages of hormonal ID:

• Very effective: hormonal IUD has an efficacy greater than 99% in pregnancy prevention.
• Lighter and shorter menstruations: Many women experience lighter and shorter menstruations with hormonal IUD, which can be beneficial for those with abundant or painful menstrual cycles.
• Reduction of menstrual symptoms: hormonal IUD can also help relieve symptoms such as menstrual pain and premenstrual syndrome.

Effectiveness, Longevity, and Cost Comparison

Effectiveness: A crucial aspect to consider when choosing a contraceptive method is its effectiveness to prevent pregnancy. According to studies, both copper and hormonal IUDs are very effective in preventing pregnancy. The copper IUD has an efficacy of more than 99%, while hormonal IUDs have an efficacy around 99. 8%. This means that both options have a very low failure rate, which makes them reliable contraceptive methods.

“The copper IUD has an efficiency rate of more than 99%, while hormonal IUDs have an effectiveness rate around 99. 8%.”

• The copper IUD has an effectiveness rate of more than 99%.
• Hormonal DUUs have an effectiveness rate of around 99. 8%.

Longevity: Another essential factor to consider is the duration of the contraceptive method. Copper IUD can provide pregnancy protection up to 10 years, so it is an excellent option for people who want lon g-term contraception. On the other hand, hormonal IUDs have a useful life that ranges between 3 and 7 years, depending on the brand. It is important to note that both types of IUDs can be extracted at any time if the person wishes to conceive.

“The copper IUD can provide pregnancy protection up to 10 years, while hormonal IUDs have a useful life that ranges between 3 and 7 years.”

Copper IUD: Dispelling Common Misconceptions

Myth 1: Copper IUD increases the risk of pelvic infections.

Contrary to popular belief, copper IUD does not increase the risk of pelvic infections. Although there is a small risk of infection during the initial insertion process, once the IUD is placed, the risk of infection is minimal. In fact, it has been discovered that copper IUD provides some protection against certain types of pelvic infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (EIP).

Myth 2: Copper IUD is not suitable for women who have never been pregnant.

It is a very common error, but it is important to point out that copper IUD is a safe and effective contraceptive option for women, regardless of their reproductive background. It can be inserted into women who have never been pregnant and does not affect future fertility. Copper IUD is a reversible contraceptive method of prolonged action (larc) that can use women of all ages, or not children have had children.

Myth 3: Copper IUD causes abundant and painful menstruations.

While it is true that copper IUD can increase menstrual flow and make some women have more abundant or painful menstruations, this side effect is not universal. Many women with copper IUD still have normal or slightly more abundant menstruations. It is important to remember that individual experiences may vary, and it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to discuss any doubt or possible side effect.

By dissipating these erroneous ideas about copper IUD, people can make wel l-informed decisions about their contraceptive options. It is essential to be based on precise information and consult health professionals to solve any questions or question about the copper IUD and their adaptation to individual reproductive health needs.

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Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont