Comparison
Copper IUD vs Hormonal IUD
Quick answer
Both are over 99% effective.[src] Copper: no hormones, up to 10 years, periods may be heavier. Hormonal: periods usually lighter, about 5 years, and usually private only.
Copper IUD vs Hormonal IUD at a glance
| Copper IUD | Hormonal IUD | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | 99.2% (0.8 in 100 pregnant a year) | 99.3% (0.7 in 100 pregnant a year) |
| How often | Every 3 to 10 years | Every 3 to 10 years |
| Lasts | Up to 10 to 12 years, by product label | Up to 5 years or more, by product label |
| Hormones | None | Progestin only |
| Price (PH) | ₱200 to ₱20,000 | ₱18,000 to ₱25,000 |
| Free at health centers | Yes, subject to supply | Not usually |
| Breastfeeding | Suitable | Suitable |
The difference, explained
The copper IUD is hormone-free and keeps your natural cycle, which many people want. Its main downside is heavier, crampier periods, especially in the first months. It is free at public facilities and Likhaan, subject to supply, or ₱10,000 to ₱20,000 privately. It is also the most effective emergency option within 5 days.[src]
The hormonal IUD releases levonorgestrel locally. Periods usually become lighter and may stop, which helps people with heavy or painful periods. It costs more, ₱18,000 to ₱25,000 privately, and is rarely free.
Insertion is the same procedure for both. Fertility returns quickly after removal of either.[src]
Which may suit you
- Copper IUD may suit you if: You want no hormones, the longest protection or the free option.
- Hormonal IUD may suit you if: You have heavy or painful periods and want them lighter.
Your doctor decides with your full health history. Not sure where to start? Try Find my method.
Three legal routes
Get a prescription
All birth control pills need a prescription in the Philippines. Pick the route that suits you. For adults 18 and over.
Free at a health center
Barangay health centers, RHUs, DOH hospitals and Likhaan. Subject to supply.
See an OB-GYN in person
Clinic visit, prescription in hand. Bring it to any licensed pharmacy.
Online consult
A licensed doctor by video or chat. From ₱700 on some platforms.
Online consult options
For adults 18 and over. Fees are set by each provider and can change.
Frequently asked questions
Which IUD is free in the Philippines?
The copper IUD is the one usually available free at public facilities.
Does the copper IUD have hormones?
No.
This guide is for information. Talk to a doctor before starting, stopping or switching birth control.
Sources
- Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers, WHO and Johns Hopkins CCP
- Emergency contraception (fact sheet), World Health Organization
- When will fertility return after using hormonal contraception?, Patient.info
- IUD insertion cost in the Philippines, ClinicFinderPH, Jun 2026