Birth control has come so far in recent years. Not only do women have more options for birth control pills than ever before, but there are also some amazing non-pill options, one of which is the copper IUD. So what benefits does the copper IUD have over other, more traditional birth control options? Take a look.

Copper IUDs Do Not Use Hormones

Copper IUDs work by making any sperm that enters the uterus nonviable. (In other words, the copper makes the sperm unable to fertilize the egg.) The copper also helps destroy eggs themselves. The IUD does not secrete any hormones like estrogen or progesterone, which sets it apart from most other birth control options, such as the pill, the patch, and the ring. As such, you do not have to worry about the hormone-related side effects that can arise from hormone-based therapies, like skin issues, mood swings, and weight gain. This makes copper IUDs an option for women who cannot tolerate hormone-based birth control.

Copper IUDs Begin Working Right Away

With most other forms of birth control, there is a waiting period between the time you start using it and the time it takes effect. For example, if you start taking the pill, you can't normally count on it being 100 percent effective for at least a week. A copper IUD starts working right away, so you don't have to rely on a secondary birth control option or wonder when you're safe.

Copper IUDs Are Long-Lasting

Face it; most people do not want to have to see their gynecologist any more often than needed! You will still want to go in for your annual checkup, but once the IUD is in place, you don't have to have it replaced for about 10 years. It's a set-it and forget-it option for busy women who don't want to add birth control to the list of responsibilities they're juggling.

Of course, you can always have the IUD taken out early if you decide you want to become pregnant. You should be able to get pregnant within a month or two, assuming you do not have any underlying conditions that impact your fertility. 

Copper IUDs offer convenience, a long lifespan, and an array of other benefits for women and their sexual partners. There are a couple of different brands to consider, so talk to your gynecologist to learn the specifics about each of them. For more information about birth control options, talk to your doctor.