Skip Navigation

Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers

Go to Family Planning Handbook Home page

Family Planning

A GLOBAL HANDBOOK FOR PROVIDERS

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 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 one 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 as the progestin in hormone replacement therapy.
Postpartum use Can be inserted up to 48 hours postpartum. Can be inserted after 4 weeks postpartum.
Use as emergency contraception Can be used within 5 days after unprotected sex. Not recommended.
Insertion Requires specific training but easier to insert than levonorgestrel IUD. Requires specific training and a unique, more difficult insertion technique. Women may experience faintness, pain, and nausea or vomiting at insertion more than with the copper-bearing IUD.
Cost Less expensive. More expensive.