Copper IUD
vs
Female Sterilization

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
Copper IUD

Copper IUD

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

Female Sterilization

A permanent surgical procedure that blocks or removes the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy.
Efficacy99.2% typical use

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

99.5% typical use

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

Cost$0–$1,424

Insurance: Usually

$0–$6,000

Insurance: Usually

DurationUp to 10 yearsPermanent
ReversibilityReversiblePermanent
STI ProtectionNoNo
How it works

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

Surgical disruption (clipping, banding, cauterization, or complete removal) of the fallopian tubes prevents eggs from reaching the uterus and sperm from reaching the egg.

PrescriptionRequired Prescription requiredRequired Prescription required
Available Products5 products2 products
Side effects
  • Heavier or longer periods (especially first few months)
  • Increased cramping
  • Spotting between periods
  • Small risk of uterine perforation at insertion
  • Surgical risks (bleeding, infection, organ damage)
  • Anesthesia side effects
  • Ectopic pregnancy (small but serious risk if failure occurs)
Who shouldn't use this
  • 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)
  • Medical instability for general anesthesia or laparoscopy
  • Uncertainty about future fertility desires