Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD)

What is this medication?

COPPER IUD (KOP er EYE YOU DEE) prevents pregnancy. It works by using copper to prevent sperm from reaching the egg (fertilization) without hormones. It is a reversible, long-term contraceptive.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Miudella, ParaGard T380A

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Abnormal Pap smear
• Cancer, including leukemia, uterine cancer, cervical cancer
• Condition of the uterus that changes its shape, such as large fibroid tumors
• Endometriosis
• Genital or pelvic infection now or in the past 3 months
• Have more than one sexual partner or your partner has more than one partner
• History of an ectopic or tubal pregnancy
• Immune system problems
• Intrauterine system already in your uterus
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Sexually transmitted infection (STI)
• Substance abuse disorder
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
• An unusual or allergic reaction to copper, barium sulfate, polyethylene, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This device is placed inside the uterus by your care team.

A patient package insert for the product will be given each time it is inserted. Be sure to read this information carefully each time. The sheet may change often.

Talk to your care team about use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. The device will need to be replaced every 10 years if you wish to continue using this type of contraception.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular check-ups.

Talk to your care team if you wish to become pregnant or think you might be pregnant. The IUD will need to be removed.

The IUD does not protect you or your partner against HIV or any other sexually transmitted infections. Tell your care team if you or your partner becomes HIV positive or gets a sexually transmitted infection.

You can check the placement of the IUD yourself by reaching up to the top of your vagina with clean fingers to feel the threads. Do not pull on the threads. It is a good habit to check placement after each menstrual period. Call your care team right away if you feel more of the IUD than just the threads or if you cannot feel the threads at all.

The IUD may come out by itself. You may become pregnant if the device comes out. If you notice that the IUD has come out use a backup contraceptive method, such as condoms, and call your care team.

Using tampons will not change the position of the IUD. It is okay to use tampons during your menstrual period.

This IUD can be safely scanned with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) only under specific conditions. Before you have an MRI, tell your care team that you have an IUD in place, and which type of IUD you have in place.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Low red blood cell level—unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness, headache, trouble breathing
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)—fever, abdominal pain, pelvic pain, pain or trouble passing urine, spotting, bleeding during or after sex
• Seizures
• Slow heartbeat—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, confusion, trouble breathing, unusual weakness or fatigue
• Stomach pain, unusual weakness or fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever that lasts longer than expected
• Unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or odor
• Vaginal pain, irritation, or sores

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Back pain
• Irregular menstrual cycles or spotting
• Menstrual cramps
• Vaginal discharge

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This does not apply.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.