First-lineTT 380 Slimline

Copper IUD

Non-hormonal IUD

Most effective EC; long-term contraception.

Intrauterine

First-line for

  • Emergency contraception ≤120 h (or ≤5 d post-ovulation)
  • Non-hormonal long-acting contraception

Mechanism

Cu²⁺ toxic to sperm/ovum; foreign-body endometrial reaction prevents implantation.

Cu-IUD EC

  • ≤99% failure prevention
  • Lasts 5–10 years

Dosing

Insertion
Within 120 h of UPSI or up to 5 days after earliest ovulation

Contraindications

  • AbsoluteActive PID/STI, pregnancy, unexplained PV bleed, distorted cavity
  • AbsoluteWilson disease, Cu allergy

Side effects

  • Heavier/longer menses
  • Insertion pain, expulsion ~5%

Fetal & maternal notes

  • Remove if pregnancy on board (↓ miscarriage/sepsis).

Key interactions

  • None systemic

    OK

    Not affected by enzyme inducers

Clinical pearls

  • 💡 Best EC option after ovulation.
  • 💡 Screen for STI at insertion.

Content last reviewed: REPLACE_ME (e.g. 2026-07)

Spotted something out of date? See our disclaimer or use Report an Error above.

For educational use only

Not medical advice. Verify dosing against the BNF and your local trust guidelines before prescribing.