Comparing IUDs
| Characteristic | Copper-Bearing IUD | Levonorgestrel IUD |
|---|---|---|
| Effectiveness | Nearly equal. Both are among the most effective methods. | |
| Length of use | Approved for 10 years. | Approved for 3 to 5 years. |
| Bleeding patterns | Longer and heavier monthly bleeding, irregular bleeding, and more cramping or pain during monthly bleeding. | More irregular bleeding and spotting in the first few months. After 1 year no monthly bleeding is more common. Causes less bleeding than copper-bearing IUDs over time. |
| Anemia | May contribute to iron-deficiency anemia if a woman already has low iron blood stores before insertion. | May help prevent iron-deficiency anemia. |
| Main reasons for discontinuation | Increased bleeding and pain. | No monthly bleeding and hormonal side effects. |
| Noncontraceptive benefits | May help protect against endometrial cancer. | Effective treatment for long and heavy monthly bleeding (alternative to hysterectomy). May also help treat painful monthly bleeding. Can be used to provide the progestin in hormone replacement therapy. |
| Postpartum use | Can be inserted up to 48 hours postpartum. After 48 hours, delay until 4 weeks or more. | |
| Use as emergency contraception | Can be used within 5 days after unprotected sex. | Not recommended. |
| Insertion | Requires specific training. | |
| Cost | Less expensive. | More expensive. |