Using the Copper T IUD as an Emergency Contraceptive

The Copper T is an intrauterine device (IUD) that some women use for regular birth control, but you can also have a doctor or other trained health care provider insert one to prevent pregnancy. For up to seven days after unprotected intercourse, you can have the IUD inserted into your uterus to keep you from getting pregnant. It prevents implantation of a fertilized egg if an egg was fertilized. It reduces your risk of getting pregnant by more than 99%.

Advantages:

• The emergency IUD can be used for up to seven days following unprotected sex.
• The emergency IUD is highly effective.
• The emergency IUD can be used by women who cannot take emergency contraceptive pills that contain hormones.

Disadvantages:

• You may have cramping or pain at the time of insertion or just after insertion of the IUD.
• There is a high initial cost of insertion of the IUD.
• The IUD is available only with a prescription, and not all health care providers insert IUDs.

Talk to your health care provider to find out information about this form of emergency contraception.