A 28-year-old woman, Milja Maunuvaara, was surprised to discover she was pregnant despite having a copper coil inserted. An ectopic pregnancy was diagnosed, where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, likely due to low hormone levels. Despite having the copper coil, an intrauterine device (IUD), for 18 months, Milja experienced severe stomach pains prompting a visit to her GP in Helsinki, Finland. An ultrasound revealed her pregnancy.
Previously relying on contraceptive pills for a decade, Milja trusted the hormone-free and highly effective copper coil. The ectopic pregnancy, although unexpected, provided relief as she was not ready for a child. Given the diagnosis, she had three options: waiting for a natural resolution, using medication, or undergoing surgery. Opting for medication, she received an injection that ended the pregnancy swiftly.
Milja now advocates for regular pregnancy testing even with highly effective birth control methods. She emphasizes personal choice in selecting contraception based on individual needs. Subsequently, she and her partner have switched to condoms due to concerns about the impact of birth control pills on her body.
While the NHS asserts the copper coil’s over 99% effectiveness when used correctly, it notes other contraceptive methods with varying efficacy rates. Condoms, while effective against STIs, carry a lower risk of preventing pregnancy. Women can access free copper coil fitting at sexual health clinics and select GP surgeries, where medical history is assessed during the initial consultation.
