Copper chain (GyneFix) in Vienna
The copper chain is a hormone-free method of contraception: a flexible thread carrying copper cylinders that is anchored in the uterus (womb) and stays there for up to five years. It is considerably smaller than an IUD (coil) and therefore also fits a small or narrow uterus.
When an assessment is worthwhile
The copper chain is particularly suitable if:
It is not suitable if you have a copper allergy, unexplained bleeding, an existing infection or a severely distorted uterine cavity, for example because of fibroids.
How it works in my practice
We compare the copper chain, the copper IUD, the hormonal IUD and alternatives on the basis of your medical history, how heavy your periods are and your life plans. You decide afterwards, not at the same appointment, if you would like time to think it over.
I measure the uterine cavity and rule out infections and abnormalities. This is the step that determines the right size and the anchoring.
Preferably in the last days of your period, because the cervix is then slightly open. The fitting takes a few minutes; take a painkiller one hour beforehand.
Ultrasound check after your next period, then once a year. This way we see early on if the chain has moved.
What to expect afterwards
Cramping for a few hours to a few days is normal, similar to severe period pain.
The first two to three periods may be heavier and longer than usual. After that, things usually settle down.
Contraceptive protection starts from the moment of fitting. Your cycle remains natural, there is no hormone break and no delay if you wish to have children: after removal, you are fertile again straight away.
Risks and limitations
The copper chain is very reliable, but no method is without risk, and none is right for every woman.
Heavier and longer periods are the most common side effect; if your periods are already heavy, the chain is usually not the best choice.
It can move or be expelled, particularly in the first few months. That is the reason for the check after your first period.
Very rarely, the wall of the uterus is injured during fitting. Pregnancy is possible, although rare; it must then be assessed promptly.
Questions my patients ask me
Does the fitting hurt?
It is briefly uncomfortable, comparable to severe period pain lasting one to two minutes. Most women cope well with a painkiller taken one hour beforehand. A general anaesthetic is not needed.
How does it differ from an IUD?
The copper chain is smaller and flexible, and it is anchored in the wall of the uterus rather than braced between the walls. As a result, it also fits small uterine cavities and causes pressure-related discomfort less often.
How reliable is it?
It is one of the most reliable methods: comparable to the copper IUD and the hormonal IUD, and more reliable than the pill in everyday use, because user error is not possible.
Will my periods become heavier?
Often in the first few months. If your periods are already heavy or you have iron deficiency, the hormonal IUD is often the better choice. We clarify this beforehand.
Can I use it if I have not had children?
Yes. That is exactly what the copper chain is designed for: it works well with a small uterine cavity.
How much does the copper chain cost?
Depending on the product, the fitting costs between €480 and €600, plus consultation and ultrasound check. As I am a private doctor without a health-insurance contract (“Wahlarzt”), you submit the invoice to your health insurer; part of the cost is reimbursed.
Special focus on endometriosis, fibroids and ovarian cysts; former head of the ZEM outpatient clinic at AKH Wien, more than 90 scientific publications.
Send an online request or give us a call. For an initial consultation with examination I allow 45 minutes; please bring any previous reports and a list of your medication.