The copper coil is one of the only non hormonal forms of contraception (bar condoms + tracking your cycle like Natural Cycles).
Instead of stopping ovulation, like most hormonal contraceptives, it prevents pregnancy by:
Impairing sperm motility - i.e. it stops them from swimming very far!
Changes the uterine lining which makes it very difficult for an egg to implant, IF sperm doesn happen to make it to the uterus.
The Pros
You make your own hormones and still get a normal period on the coil, as ovulation is not affected. (remember ovulation is so important for our energy, mood, drive, libido!)
It can last for 10 years once it’s in and it has a 0.6 failure rate or a 99% effectiveness.
It’s suitable for women of any age - including teens + women who haven’t had children yet! This seems to be a huge misconception in Ireland and often I see clients having to argue to get it inserted! I think the copper coil is a much better option than switching off your hormones. Especially, for teens whos menstrual cycle is still developing.
The Cons
The coil can make periods heavier- so it’s not recommend if you already suffer with really heavy periods (however this can be managed with natural treatments).
It can cause mild bloating for the first 6 months, while your body gets used to it.
It also increases the risk of Bacterial vaginosis as it disrupts the vaginal microbiome.
Lastly, it can cause copper toxicity (this isn’t something that I have seen before, but would love to know your experience with this?)
Important Tips on the Copper Coil
It’s important to take zinc while on the copper coil as zinc and copper compete for absorption - so the coil can reduce zinc. (Low zinc also increase your risk for copper toxicity). Zinc is also one of the most important minerals to help reduce heavy periods + pain. So you can see why so many women experience heavier periods while on the coil!
I also recommend taking probiotics to keep the vagina microbiome happy and reduce the chances of BV.
Be careful if you are prone to having low iron as zinc and iron compete for absorption- so too much zinc can reduce iron and also heavier periods can also reduce iron... (Honestly, it’s a mind field!)
I’d love to hear your experience with the coil- leave a comment below.
Supplements in this post:
➡️ ZINC