Breastfeeding Birth Control
vs
Copper IUD

A side-by-side comparison of two birth control methods — efficacy, cost, how they work, and who shouldn't use them.

Side-by-side comparison

Method
Breastfeeding Birth Control

Breastfeeding Birth Control

A natural postpartum method (lactational amenorrhea method, LAM) that relies on exclusive breastfeeding to suppress ovulation, effective for up to 6 months.
Copper IUD

Copper IUD

A small copper device placed in the uterus that works for up to 10 years and is over 99% effective.
Efficacy98% typical use

Moderately effective: over 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.

99.2% typical use

Most effective: over 99 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.

Cost$0–$300

Insurance: Varies

$0–$1,424

Insurance: Usually

DurationUp to 6 months postpartumUp to 10 years
ReversibilityReversibleReversible
STI ProtectionNoNo
How it works

Exclusive breastfeeding suppresses the hormones that trigger ovulation. High prolactin from frequent nursing keeps estrogen and progesterone low, preventing the return of menstrual cycles.

Releases copper ions into the uterus that make the environment toxic to sperm and may prevent implantation if fertilization occurs.

PrescriptionOTC No prescription / OTCRequired Prescription required
Available ProductsNo branded products yet5 products
Side effectsNone reported
  • Heavier or longer periods (especially first few months)
  • Increased cramping
  • Spotting between periods
  • Small risk of uterine perforation at insertion
Who shouldn't use this
  • Baby over 6 months old
  • Periods have returned
  • Not exclusively or nearly exclusively breastfeeding
  • Use of supplemental formula or solid foods
  • Active pelvic infection or PID (FDA label Category 4)
  • Uterine anomaly preventing insertion (FDA label Category 4)
  • Wilson's disease (copper metabolism disorder) (FDA label Category 4)
  • Known copper allergy (FDA label Category 4)
  • Current pregnancy (FDA label Category 4)