INTRAUTERINE
DEVICE (IUD)
Other names: non-hormonal coil; copper coil
WHAT IS THE IUD?
The IUD, also called the copper coil, is a small copper and plastic T-shaped device that is placed in your uterus (womb) and releases copper to prevent pregnancy.
It is a highly effective contraceptive and lasts up to 5-10 years depending on the type you choose.
OVERVIEW
EFFICACY
99%+
FREQUENCY
EVERY 5–10 YEARS
EFFECT ON FERTILITY
UPON DISCONTINUATION OF USE, FERTILITY SHOULD RETURN TO NORMAL
BLOOD CLOT RISK
NOT KNOWN TO INCREASE RISK
THE IUD IS A TYPE OF LONG-ACTING CONTRACEPTION
The IUD belongs to a category of contraceptives called LARCs (long-acting reversible contraceptives). The IUD provides contraception for a long period of time - up to 10 years (long acting). It can also be removed at any point if your plans change and you will return to your normal level of fertility once it is removed (reversible).
HOW DOES AN IUD WORK?
Copper in the IUD immobilises sperm which makes it more difficult for sperm to reach and fertilise the egg.
HOW EFFECTIVE IS THE IUD?
At 99%, it’s one of the most effective contraceptive methods. An IUD is over 99% effective preventing pregnancy with both perfect use and typical use, meaning that less than 1 in 100 women will get pregnant every year if they have an IUS.
PERFECT USE*
99%+
Effective
Approximately 1 out of every 100 women in a year will experience an unintended pregnancy.
* Perfect use of a contraceptive method is when it is used correctly all the time.
TYPICAL USE*
99%+
Effective
Approximately 1 out of every 100 women in a year will experience an unintended pregnancy.
* Typical use is what generally happens in real life. It takes into account human error e.g. forgetting to take your pill. For the IUD, typical use is the same as perfect use.
Among 100 women who use no birth control and regularly have sex, it is expected that about 85 will become pregnant in a year.
WHY IS IT SO EFFECTIVE?
It’s a very effective option because once fitted by a healthcare professional, the IUD doesn’t rely on you having to remember to take it for it to work.
WHAT IS AN IUD MADE OF?
There are three parts to the IUD:
This is an illustrative example of a T shaped IUD. Different IUDs are available with a range of sizes to accommodate different uterus sizes.
PREPARING FOR YOUR GP APPOINTMENT
TALKING TO YOUR DOCTOR
Get the information you need for an informed discussion with your doctor.
PP-UN-WHC-GB-0289 July 2025