Contraceptive coil

The Copper coil

The copper coil is inserted into the woman's uterus by a doctor. The usual copper coils can remain in the uterus for 5 years. In Germany, even the coils, which are indicated with a service life of 3 years (mini format) up to 10 years (increased copper dosage) are permitted.

The sperm cells are inhibited in their mobility on their way into the fallopian tubes by the copper, which is constantly released in minute quantities by the coil, and fertilisation does not usually occur. Copper also plays a major role in disturbing the structure of the lining of the uterus. This prevents a fertilised egg from being implanted in the uterus, if fertilisation has occurred after all.

Some coils are provided with gold additives, which helps reduce the susceptibility to infections. However, it has not yet been demonstrated whether or not fewer infections occur.

Advantages

You do not need to think about contraception for a long time. No intervention in the hormonal balance with relatively high contraceptive safety.

Disadvantages

Bleeding is usually increased and prolonged; it can be more painful; intermenstrual bleeding can occur. A rare but serious side effect may be the appearance of abdominal inflammation, which must be treated by a doctor to prevent subsequent infertility. Generally, women who still want to have kids are particularly enlightened of this possible risk of subsequent infertility. The coil does not prevent ectopic pregnancy.

Reliability

The copper coil is a reliable method of contraception provided that the size selected and the adjustment made are correct. You should get the correct position checked by your doctor every six months.

Progestin IUD:

Progestin IUDs work their way via constant release of progestin in small quantities in the uterine cavity. They differ in size, hormone quantity and service life. Some can remain in the uterus for 3 or 5 years. The hormones essentially lead to thickening and change in the mucus environment in the uterine canal. The ascent of the sperm is thereby hindered. In addition, the growth of the uterine lining is suppressed, thus preventing the implantation of a fertilised egg.

Advantages

Here as well, contraceptive protection is guaranteed for a longer period of time. The contraceptive safety of this coil is very high. Pain during bleeding and severity of bleeding are greatly reduced. In some cases, menstruation does not occur at all.

Disadvantages

Bleeding disorders (spotting and intermenstrual bleeding) occur relatively frequently, especially in the first 3 months. Some women experience a weak menstruation or no menstruation at all as an added pressure. Some women complain of breast tenderness, headaches, mood changes or loss in sexual appetite.

Reliability

The progestin IUD is almost as safe as sterilisation. You should get the correct position checked by your doctor every 6 months in this case as well.

Accessibility of progestin IUDs and copper coils

Since there are some diseases or situations in which the coils are generally not recommended (e.g. in the event of an increased risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease, acute or chronic abdominal inflammation, after ectopic pregnancies, certain uterine malformations and others), all coils can only be prescribed by a doctor after a thorough examination.

Costs of progestin IUD and copper coils

• Copper coil: approx. 120 to 200 € for an application period of 3 - 5 years. (in exceptional cases up to 7 or 10 years). The cost includes consultation, check-up and insertion.
• Progestin IUD: The cost goes up to approximately 250 to 400 € including the insertion for an application period of 5 years in a gynaecological practice.

The costs for the consultation of the contraceptive methods are covered by the health insurance. Costs of up to 40 € can be incurred for the recommended half-yearly ultrasound check-ups.

According to the scale of fees for doctors, the coil should be covered by the health insurance company for women with statutory health insurance up to the age of 22. However, this is denied in some cases. Therefore, you should check with your gynaecologist before opting for your insertions.