The Copper IUD is a small t-shaped device wrapped in copper coil. This type of birth control interacts with the uterus to make the environment unable to carry a pregnancy. Due to how the copper IUD works, it can be used as a form of emergency birth control for up to 5-7 days after the sex you are worried about.The copper IUD can also sometimes cause increased periods and extra cramping.

To use the copper IUD a healthcare provider will insert the device into your uterus. This process takes around 5 minutes. Attached to the IUD are two-inch-long threads that hang down through the cervix (the opening to the uterus) and into the top of the vagina. These strings help healthcare providers (or yourself) check to ensure the IUD is still in the right position. The copper IUD can be used for 5-10 years depending on the brand of IUD. To use the copper IUD as a form of emergency birth control, just ensure that the device is inserted between 5-7 days after the sex act that you are worried about.

The copper IUD is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy with typical use and is around $80-$200 in Ottawa. The Sexual Health Centre in Ottawa sometimes provides the copper IUD at a discounted rate for those who need it.