Explain the mode of action of Cu++ releasing IUDs as a good contraceptive. How is hormone releasing IUD different from it?

Question

(a) Explain the mode of action of Cu++ releasing IUDs as a good contraceptive. How is hormone releasing IUD different from it?

(b) Why is ‘Saheli’ a preferred contraceptive by women (any two reasons)?

Answer 1

(a) Copper IUDs commonly called Copper-Ts have ionised copper which slowly diffuses at the rate of some 50 \(\mu\)g/day. IUDs increase phagocytosis and the Cu ions suppress sperm motility and their ability to fertilize the ovum.

Hormone releasing IUDs such as LNG-20 release small quantities of hormones and make the uterus unsuitable for implantation and cervix hostile to sperms.

(b) Saheli, the new oral contraceptive for the females contains a non-steroidal preparation called centchroman. It is a ‘once a week’ pill with very few side effects and a high contraceptive value.