How do IUCDs work?

How do IUCDs work?

The IUCDs work in a number of ways. All IUCDs produce an inflammatory response in the fluid of the genital tract that largely prevents fertilisation. Copper, increases this inflammatory response and it is toxic to sperm (spermicidal) and the early embryo. The amount of copper entering the body from copper containing IUCDs is believed to be of no significance as there is very little increase in blood levels of copper. Most of the copper is lost through the fluid in the uterus which passes into the vagina. The LNG-IUS causes the endometrium to be thin so that it is not capable of sustaining embryo implantation. It also results in the cervical mucus being impenetrable to sperm.

For some, the question of how the IUCD prevents pregnancy is critical. As inert and copper IUCDs are effective partly after fertilisation they may not be acceptable in some cultures. The Mirena (LNG-IUSMirena) functions almost entirely by preventing fertilisation.

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