Comparing IUDs: Copper, Mirena and Kyleena at a glance

Kyleena©
Mirena©
Type of IUD

Copper
(images not to
scale)

DIN: 02243005 DIN: 02459523

Cost $95+* $350+* $350+*

Lasts for Up to 5 or 10 years (depending on type) Up to 5 years Up to 5 years

Hormones? None Yes, 20 µg LNG¹ (average Yes, 9 µg LNG¹ (average

released daily) released daily)

Failure Rate 8 pregnancies per 2 pregnancies per 2 pregnancies per

with typical use, in 1st year of 1000 users 1000 users 1000 users
use (approx.)

-Very cost effective over time. -After removal return to baseline fertility is rap- -After removal return to baseline fertility is
Advantages -After removal, return to baseline fertility is id. rapid.
immediate. -Decreases menstrual cramping and blood loss. -Can be used by those who cannot/do not
-A copper IUD may be used by those who -12% of users experience total loss of menstrual wish to use estrogen containing methods in-
cannot/do not want to use hormonal bleeding. This is safe. cluding breastfeeding users.
methods. -Can reduce endometriosis pain and be used by -In most users, there is a trend over time to-
-Ovulation is not effected in users. postmenopausal users to reduce risk of endo- wards less frequent and shorter episodes of
metrial cancer. bleeding
The Copper IUD may also be used -Can be used by those who cannot/do not wish -Smaller frame size than Mirena
to use estrogen containing methods including
for emergency contraception w/i 7 breastfeeding users.
days of intercourse.
-Number of bleeding days or flow is higher -Irregular/unpredictable bleeding in the first 3-6 -Irregular/unpredictable menstrual like bleed-
Possible than typical. months ing during the first 3-6 months
Side Effects -Users may experience an increase in men- -1-10% chance of progestin related side effects -1-10% chance of progestin related side
(Note: Not all users strual cramping including acne/oily skin, breast pain, nausea, effects including acne/oily skin, nausea, head-
experience side effects. If a -There may be an increase/change in vagi- headaches, hair loss, ovarian cyst , vaginal dis- aches, breast, ovarian cyst , vaginal discharge
user does experience side
nal discharge charge, and/or mood changes. and/or mood changes
effects, they often lessen
over time)

© Island Sexual Health, 2019. ¹LNG = levonorgestrel, a type of progestin Sources: Managing Contraception 2013 and Bayer CPS product monographs
* Cost of IUD will vary between pharmacies. We always recommend comparing prices before purchasing. LNG containing IUDS are covered by many extended drug plans but Copper are not. In the event of failed insertion, expulsion or other
complications, the cost of the device is not refundable . More info on other side
 101-3960 Quadra Street
Victoria BC V8X 4A3
250-592-3479
Intrauterine Device Information
Islandsexualhealth.org pairing a barrier method (condom, dam, glove) with an IUD ceptive method, please abstain from vaginal intercourse
to reduce the risk of STIs. rom the start of your period or 14 days prior to your IUD
What is an IUD?
insertion; which ever comes later. If you have not
What are the risks of IUDs?
An IUD is a small, flexible plastic device which is placed abstained, the Dr. will not insert your IUD.
inside the uterus by a health care professional. IUDs are There is a 3% risk of expulsion (IUD falling out) leading to
If you currently have an IUD, please abstain from
highly effective in reducing the risk of pregnancy, conven- pregnancy, usually in 1st year (this is affected by certain
intercourse 7 days prior to insertion of the next. If you
ient, safe and private for the user and can be used for any factors, ask the Doctor for more information)
have not abstained, the Dr. will not insert your IUD.
duration of time up to 3-10 years depending on the type.
There is a .1% risk of uterine perforation at the time of
An IUD may be inserted 8 weeks postpartum or immedi- If you are using the pill, patch, ring, or injection, it is not
insertion.
ately after an abortion. Currently, there are 2 categories of necessary to abstain from intercourse prior to insertion.
IUDs available in Canada: There is a .1% risk of pelvic infection in the 20 days
Eat a light meal with fluids and take 400mg of ibuprofen
following insertion but the risk is the same as a non IUD
1. Copper based IUDs (Does not contain hormone) (if allergic ask Dr. for alternative) 90 minutes before your
user thereafter.
scheduled insertion time.
Copper based IUDs slowly release copper into the uterus
How can I start using an IUD?
and the ions in the fluids reduce the mobility of the sperm What can I expect during an insertion appointment?
and their ability to fertilize an ovum. Gather information and consult with a physician about
 Arrive 10 minutes before your insertion
which IUD is the most suitable for you. ISHS has educators
2. Hormone based IUDs (Mirena & Kyleena) appointment and be prepared to provide a urine
and nurses who can provide you with the most current and
sample for a pregnancy test.
Hormone based IUDs contain small amounts of factual information. If you haven’t previously had a pelvic
 During insertion, you can expect some strong
levonorgestrel which is a progestin much like the hormone exam, potential IUD users are advised to have one before
menstrual type cramping and discomfort at the
progesterone ovaries produce. Levonorgesterel thickens an insertion appointment.
time of insertion and for about 20 minutes after.
cervical mucous so sperm and ovum do not meet and also
An IUD should be inserted by a trained physician. ISHS runs The intensity of the cramping differs for each per-
thins the lining of the uterus. The amount of hormone
designated IUD clinics weekly. son. The insertion itself usually takes less than 5
released daily varies on the type (Refer to other side for
An IUD can be inserted at any time during the menstrual minutes.
specific amounts).
cycle as long as the risk of pregnancy can be excluded.  If possible, bring a support person along to accom-
How does an IUD work? pany you home after insertion and try to schedule
Prior to your IUD insertion, be sure that you are
Although the mechanism of action differs between the your insertion for a day where you don’t have
comfortable and familiar with locating your cervix so you
Copper and hormone based IUDs; all IUDS create changes strenuous commitments following the inser-
will be able to check your strings following insertion. The
within the reproductive system to prevent fertilization tion.
inside of vaginal walls feel similar to the inside of your
from occurring. IUDs are referred to as Long Acting Use an additional/ back up method of contraception or
mouth; fleshy and flexible where as the cervix feels similar
Reversible Contraception or LARC for short. Once an IUD is abstain for 7 days after.
to the tip of your nose; firm and round.
placed, the user simply checks the strings each month to
ensure proper placement. How do I prepare for my insertion appointment?

IUDs do not provide protection vs. STIs—we recommend If you are not current using any type of hormonal contra-

©2019 Island Sexual Health

For more information or to book an appointment , call Island Sexual Health at 250-592-3479. More info on other side