Abstract: Aims: This study aims to evaluate the effects of copper intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs), specifically Cu375 and CuT 380 A, on serum copper levels and uterine blood flow using transvaginal Doppler ultrasound. It also aims to correlate these changes with the presence of menstrual disturbances among users.
Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Subharti Medical College, Meerut, from September 2022 to August 2024, involving 80 women aged 20-45 years seeking contraception. Participants were divided into two groups: those with menstrual complaints (n=27) and those without (n=53). Serum copper levels were measured, and uterine artery Doppler indices (Resistance Index [RI] and Pulsatility Index [PI]) were recorded before IUCD insertion and three months post-insertion. Follow-up assessments included menstrual disturbances and Doppler measurements.
Results: A significant reduction in serum copper levels was observed in CuT 380 A users (p=0.018), while Cu375 users exhibited a non-significant decrease. No significant correlation was found between serum copper levels and menstrual complaints in either IUCD group. Uterine artery Doppler findings indicated a significant association between higher RI values and menstrual complaints in CuT 380 A users, both pre- and post-insertion (p=0.019 and p=0.047, respectively). In contrast, no significant differences in Doppler indices were observed among Cu375 users.
Conclusion: The study concludes that CuT 380 A may cause a slight but clinically non-significant decrease in serum copper levels. Higher pre- and post-insertion RI values in CuT 380 A users may serve as predictors for menstrual disturbances. These findings highlight the safety of copper IUCDs as effective contraceptive options with minimal systemic impact and suggest the potential role of Doppler indices in managing IUCD-related menstrual issues.
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