Copper IUD
vs
Vasectomy

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.
Vasectomy

Vasectomy

A permanent outpatient procedure that blocks the vas deferens so sperm cannot enter the semen.
Efficacy99.2% typical use

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

99.85% typical use

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

Cost$0–$1,424

Insurance: Usually

$0–$3,500

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.

A clinician cuts, seals, or blocks the vas deferens so sperm cannot mix with semen during ejaculation. The body absorbs the sperm, and the semen remains normal in appearance and volume.

PrescriptionRequired Prescription requiredOTC Procedure (in-person)
Available Products5 productsNo branded products yet
Side effects
  • Heavier or longer periods (especially first few months)
  • Increased cramping
  • Spotting between periods
  • Small risk of uterine perforation at insertion
  • Mild pain or swelling for a few days
  • Bruising or bleeding at the site
  • Sperm granuloma (small lump, usually harmless)
  • Chronic post-vasectomy pain syndrome (rare, 1-2%)
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)
  • Uncertainty about future fertility desires
  • Active local or systemic infection
  • Bleeding disorder