Aluminium and the copper coil

“Copper coil” describes a category rather than one universal product. Device frames, copper components, and any additional materials can vary by model, so the product name is needed for an accurate materials check.

A copper intrauterine device sits inside the uterus and releases copper locally, creating conditions that impair sperm and prevent fertilisation. It does not release contraceptive hormones. A hormonal coil also sits in the uterus but releases a progestogen and often makes bleeding lighter.

Copper coils can make periods heavier, longer, or more painful, especially after insertion. They may appeal to someone who wants long-acting contraception without hormones, but the bleeding effect matters if periods are already heavy or iron levels are low. A metal allergy history or concern about a named material should be assessed against the exact device documentation.

Ask for the brand, model, patient leaflet, full materials list, expected duration, and a record of the insertion. Tell the clinician about metal allergies, unexplained bleeding, current pelvic infection symptoms, previous difficult insertions, medicines, and the possibility of pregnancy.

After insertion, follow the supplied guidance for checking the threads. If you cannot feel them, feel hard plastic, or notice a clear change in thread length, use condoms or avoid sex until a clinician checks the coil’s position. Do not attempt to reposition or remove it yourself.

Seek urgent care for severe or escalating lower-abdominal pain, very heavy bleeding, fainting, fever, offensive discharge, a positive pregnancy test, or pain with pregnancy symptoms. Sudden pain with dizziness or shoulder-tip pain needs emergency evaluation.

Arrange a non-emergency review for persistent bleeding changes, ongoing pain during sex, suspected expulsion, or symptoms that began after insertion and are not settling. Skin rash, facial swelling, wheezing, or breathing difficulty after exposure to any material requires immediate help.

Ask why this model suits you, exactly which materials it contains, how it may affect your periods, what pain relief is available for insertion, how pregnancy protection starts, and where removal can be arranged. If avoiding heavier bleeding matters more than avoiding hormones, ask how a hormonal coil compares.