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Last updated: January 13, 2026

pH-Responsive Copper IUD

Smart IUD

  • User: Female
  • Hormonal: Non-Hormonal
  • Delivery type:
    • Intrauterine
  • Intended Duration:
    • Long-Acting
  • Development Stage: Discovery & Early Development
  • Developer(s)/researcher(s): University of Pisa
Details
  • API: Copper
  • Mechanism of Action:
    • Inhibition of Sperm Motility
    • Inhibition of Sperm Capacitation
  • Regimen: Not Yet Determined
  • MPT: Not Potential MPT
  • Promising Attributes: Hydrogel-coated copper IUDs are theorized to have a copper ion release profile that is less irritating to uterine tissue while maintaining the same contraceptive efficacy.
Product Status

Active/Recent Early Development

History

2025: The University of Pisa publish results of early prototype evaluation of hydrogel-coated, pH-responsive copper IUDs. Researchers conclude that both anionic and cationic gel coatings produce a more desirable copper ion release profile, and that the concept warrants additional development.

Publications