Long-acting reversible contraception (Cu-IUD)
Intra-uterine contraceptive device (copper)
Brand names: TT380 Slimline, T-Safe, Mini TT380
Adult dose
Dose: Insert single device into uterine cavity; effective up to 5–10 years depending on device
Route: Intra-uterine
Frequency: per device life
Clinical pearls
- Most effective non-hormonal LARC; failure rate <1%/year
- Also licensed for emergency contraception within 5 days of unprotected intercourse
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Active pelvic infection
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Distorted uterine cavity
- Wilson's disease
- Copper allergy
Side effects
- Heavier/longer/more painful periods
- Expulsion
- Perforation (rare)
- Increased risk of pelvic infection in first 20 days
Reference: BNF; FSRH guidance; NICE CG30; https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/intra-uterine-contraceptive-devices-copper/. Verify against your local formulary and the latest BNF before prescribing.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Calculators
- Corrected QT Interval (Bazett) · ECG
- Bazett Corrected QT Interval (QTc) Calculator · Arrhythmia
- EUROMACS-RHF Score for Right Heart Failure after LVAD · Heart Failure
- IABP Timing Assessment · Mechanical Circulatory Support
- Long QT Syndrome (Schwartz Score) · Channelopathy / Sudden Cardiac Death
- Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) · Cognitive Assessment
Pathways
- Spinal Anaesthesia Hypotension Management · AAGBI; ASA
- Pre-Eclampsia / Eclampsia in ED · NICE NG133; RCOG Green-top 10A
- Suspected Ectopic Pregnancy · NICE NG126; RCOG Green-top 21
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) · International PCOS Guideline 2023; NICE CKS
- Pre-eclampsia Management · NICE NG133 2019
- Ectopic Pregnancy · NICE CG154 / RCOG GTG 21