A copper IUD (intrauterine device or coil) is a type of intrauterine contraceptive device. Most IUDs have a plastic T-shaped frame which is wrapped in copper wire and sleeves. The device has to be fitted inside and removed from the uterine cavity by a doctor or qualified medical practitioner. It remains in place the entire time pregnancy is not desired.
The IUD is a long acting reversible contraceptive, with different IUDs intended to last for different lengths of time, usually between 3 and 10 years. The length of time that the device lasts depends mainly on the amount of exposed copper, which is indicated, in square millimeters, by a number in the name of each device (i.e., the Paragard T-380A has 380 square millimeters of exposed copper).
The IUD is the world's most widely used method of reversible birth control, currently used by over 175 million women.
The mechanism of IUDs is not well understood. It is known however that the presence of a device in the uterus prompts the release of leukocytes and prostaglandins by the endometrium. These substances are hostile to both sperm and eggs; the presence of copper increases the spermicidal effect. The general medical consensus is that spermicidal and ovicidal mechanisms are the only way in which IUDs work. Some physicians and medical texts have suggested they may have a secondary effect of interfering with the development of pre-implanted embryos; this secondary effect is considered more plausible when the IUD is used as emergency contraception.
Second-generation copper-T IUDs have failure rates of less than 1% per year, and cumulative 10-year failure rates of 2-6%. A copper IUD may also be used as emergency contraception. If an IUD is inserted within five days of unprotected intercourse, a woman's chance of pregnancy is reduced to that of ongoing IUD users.
IUDs do not protect against STDs or PID.
Made from a shape memory alloy of a specific size and shape, the SCu300A IUB™ is inserted through an insertion tube much like regular IUDs, however, when pushed out, in the uterus, it takes a spherical shape. An important feature includes its downwards curving opposite to the uterine fundus as it emerges out of the tube, minimizing the risk of perforation. The three dimensional shape's elasticity allows for better amenability to the uterus, nullifying the possibility of malposition and its final outer diameter reducing the probability of expulsion. Lacking rigid or protruding segments and being significantly smaller than other IUDs, the IUB™ is expected to reduce distortion and tissue irritation, possibly resulting in less bleeding, discomfort and pain, leading to lower discontinuation rates. A thread is attached to the IUB™ to allow easy removal.
The trialed IUB™ will be copper-based (Cu surface area of 300mm2).
This study aims to assess the IUB™'s safety and initial efficacy. Endpoints include the assessment of changes in discomfort, pain and menorrhea, changes in the endometrium discontinuation rates as well as user experience. These results will be used as regulatory evidence and will also help in reaffirming the assumption that the IUB™'s design contributes to lower complication and side effect rates.
