Are there side effects to using the copper iud?

Bleeding: Some patients will experience an increase in menstrual flow.

Some mild: Mild to moderate cramps during the first couple of days after insertion. Could cause moderate to severe menstrual cramps, irregular bleeding that can vary from spotting to heavy periods.

Minimal: The CopperIUD is one of the BEST forms of birth control available. It is non-hormonal (no effect on fertility/acne/headaches/nausea/wt gain/bloating/blood clots) and VERY safe (except if you have Wilson's dz/Copper allergy). The only risk is a heavier period and complications w/ insertion (RARE). It is immediately effective to prevent pregnancy but does not protect against STIs.