Copper T Insertion in Thane
Copper T insertion in Thane is a procedure in which a gynecologist places a Copper T, a small T-shaped intrauterine device (IUD) wrapped in thin copper wire, inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is a non-hormonal, reversible method of contraception that can stay in place for several years and can be removed by the doctor whenever a woman wishes to plan a pregnancy.
What is a Copper T?
A Copper T is an intrauterine device (IUD) made of a flexible, T-shaped piece of plastic wrapped in a thin copper wire. The T shape fits the uterine cavity well, which allows the device to stay in place for a long time, even years. It is also called an IUCD (intrauterine contraceptive device).
Dr Arohi says, “A Copper T is a long-term, non-hormonal and reversible option. Whether it suits a woman depends on her health history, which is why a consultation comes first.”
How does a Copper T work?
Once a Copper T is inserted, copper ions are released from the copper wire into the uterine fluids and the cervical mucus. These fluids are harmful to sperm and reduce their movement, which makes it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilise an egg. Even if an egg is fertilised, the copper-rich environment of the uterus prevents it from implanting. In this way, pregnancy is prevented.
How effective is a Copper T?
The yearly pregnancy rate among Copper T users is below 1%.
Who can have a Copper T inserted?
A Copper T IUD may be advised for women who:
- Want to delay pregnancy or family planning
- Have never had pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Prefer not to use hormonal contraceptives
Who should not have a Copper T inserted?
A Copper T 380A IUD should not be placed in a woman who:
- Is pregnant or suspects she is pregnant
- Still has a previously inserted IUD in place
- Has a genital cancer or other genital abnormalities
- Had a postpartum or post-abortion infection in the previous three months
- Has Wilson’s disease or a copper allergy
- Has genital actinomycosis
- Has a sexually transmitted infection, including a lower genital tract infection such as gonorrhea or chlamydia
- Has acute pelvic inflammatory disease, or a history of it
- Has a condition linked to a higher risk of infections, such as leukemia, AIDS or intravenous drug use
Dr Arohi says, “A history and examination before insertion help identify who should not have a Copper T, so this step should not be skipped.”
What are the benefits of a Copper T?
- Safe and effective: It is effective in preventing pregnancy and is safe to use during breastfeeding.
- Long-lasting: Depending on the type of IUCD, it lasts between 3 and 10 years.
- Hassle-free: Once inserted, there is nothing to remember or replace daily.
- Cost-effective: It is less expensive in the long run than many other contraceptive methods.
- Reversible: The doctor can remove it easily when a woman wants to become pregnant.
What are the side effects of a Copper T?
Most women have no problems with a Copper T. In some cases, it may cause:
- Periods that are longer, heavier and more painful
- Less protection against ectopic pregnancy than against a normal (uterine) pregnancy
- Worsening of an infection that was already present
- Loss of the IUCD thread, or inability to feel it, because the device has fallen out or moved
- Perforation (a hole) in the uterus
What happens when a Copper T is removed?
An IUCD is a reversible method of contraception. Removing it is generally less painful than inserting it. The doctor removes it using forceps. Mild discomfort and bleeding may follow, and these settle within 1 to 2 days.
Can I get pregnant after Copper T removal?
The Copper T is meant to be reversible. When a woman plans a pregnancy, the doctor can remove the device.
When should I see a doctor after Copper T insertion?
You should consult a doctor if:
- You think the Copper T has moved or come out
- You have vaginal discharge
- You have pain on one side of the abdomen along with a missed period
- You have persistent severe pain after insertion
About Dr Arohi Tasgaonkar
Dr Arohi Tasgaonkar is a robotic gynecologist and obstetrician in Thane. Her qualifications are MS (ObGy), DNB (ObGy) and a Fellowship in Gynaec Endoscopy. Registration no.: [2006052656].
Her practice covers pregnancy care, including normal delivery, high-risk pregnancy care, painless delivery, C-section delivery and post-delivery care, as well as gynecological conditions such as fibroids, PCOD and menstrual problems with more than 15 years of experience. She also performs minimally invasive and robotic gynecological surgery; you can read about robotic gynecology in Thane here.
Where can I consult Dr Arohi Tasgaonkar in Thane?
- Complete Women’s Care, Ghodbunder Road, Thane West
- Clinic: 2nd Floor, Mohan Heritage Building, Above Nipun Hospital, Mahapalika Bhavan Road, Opposite TMC Office, Panch Pakhdi, Thane (W)
- Phone: +91 9833074977
OR
- KIMS Hospitals, Ghodbunder Road, Thane West
- Clinic: Ghodbunder Rd, opp. BRENTFORD, Patlipada, Thane West, Thane, Maharashtra 400607
- Phone: +91 8355906070
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Copper T?
It is a small T-shaped intrauterine device made of flexible plastic wrapped in copper wire, placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
Is a Copper T the same as an IUCD or IUD?
Yes. Copper T is a type of IUD, also called an IUCD.
Does a Copper T contain hormones?
No. It works through copper, which is why it is an option for women who prefer not to use hormonal contraceptives.
How does a Copper T prevent pregnancy?
Copper ions released into the uterine fluids and cervical mucus reduce sperm movement and prevent a fertilised egg from implanting.
How effective is a Copper T?
The yearly pregnancy rate among users is below 1%.
How long does a Copper T last?
Between 3 and 10 years, depending on the type of IUCD.
Is a Copper T safe during breastfeeding?
Yes. A Copper T is considered safe to use while breastfeeding.
How do I know if my Copper T has moved?
If you cannot feel the thread, or you think the device has moved or come out, see your doctor.
Is removing a Copper T painful?
Removal is generally less painful than insertion. There may be mild discomfort and bleeding for 1 to 2 days.
Can I get pregnant after the Copper T is removed?
The Copper T is reversible, and the doctor can remove it when a woman wants to become pregnant.
This page is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Whether a Copper T is suitable is decided by the treating doctor after examination.