Active oxygen species in copper intrauterine device users

The mechanism of copper intrauterine device (Cu IUD) in limiting intrauterine infections is poorly understood. Copper ions may enhance the release of reactive oxygen species which are deleterious to the microbes. The present study compares the oxidative responses of adherent cell population of uterus prior to Cu-T insertion and at different post-insertion intervals. Increase in reactive oxygen intermediates was evident at 1 week post-insertion. However, the release of active oxygen species decreased thereafter. Further, these responses were only a local phenomenon as the peripheral blood monocytes failed to produce appreciable change following Cu-T insertion. Results suggest the protective role of active oxygen species in Cu IUD users which lasts for a brief period. The withering of respiratory burst activity later on may possibly prevent endometrial damage.