When chemistry professor and mom, Samantha Gateman, found no non-hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) without significant side effects, she felt a spark to make a difference. Despite her background in corrosion chemistry, Gateman had never worked with contraceptive technology before. However, her curiosity about the use of copper in IUDs and interest in finding better alternatives led her on a transformative journey.
“I had tried various hormonal contraceptives and had really bad experiences,” Gateman shared. “I was looking for something long-term but non-hormonal. The only option available was the copper IUD, which previous research has shown has a whole sleeve of negative side effects.”
Gateman, along with an interdisciplinary team of researchers at Western University, is now working on developing an iron IUD. Their goal is to offer a gentler alternative to the commonly used copper version.
Understanding IUDs
An intrauterine device, or IUD, is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It comes in two main types: hormonal and non-hormonal.
- Hormonal IUDs: These release a small amount of hormones directly into the uterus, preventing pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus to block sperm and sometimes stopping ovulation. They can also reduce menstrual bleeding and cramping.
- Non-hormonal IUDs: Typically made of copper, these work by releasing copper ions, which interact with sperm to impede them. However, these same ions can cause inflammation, leading to side effects like pelvic pain and stomach cramps.
Driven by her challenging experiences with hormonal contraceptives and the limitations of copper IUDs, Gateman turned to her expertise in corrosion chemistry. She explored alternative metals, like iron or zinc, that might provide effective contraception without the harsh side effects. The new non-hormonal IUD project aims to reduce the inflammatory response caused by copper ions by using iron or zinc with a specially developed polymer coating.
The project was initiated through the Western Interdisciplinary Development Initiative (IDI) in 2023, bringing together a diverse team of medical practitioners, chemists, social scientists, and experts in women and gender studies.
“This project requires experts from Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, gynecologists, polymer chemists, and social scientists. It’s a team project,” Gateman emphasized.
Kate Choi, a professor of sociology and director of the Center for Research on Social Inequality, ensures the new IUD’s accessibility and acceptability in diverse communities. “Ensuring that those with contraceptive needs do not encounter prominent obstacles to contraceptive access is a key goal,” Choi said. Her research informs the project’s aim to provide an effective, affordable, and culturally sensitive contraceptive option.
Moving Forward
Dean Betts, a professor at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, collaborates on studying the effects of corrosive metals and polymers on embryo development using synthetic embryos. “I have no expertise in metal corrosion, and the chemists have limited knowledge of embryology. But together, we create something special,” Betts noted.
Looking ahead, the team plans to finalize the polymer coating process, conduct extensive testing, and eventually move toward human clinical trials.
“This project started as a passion and has the potential to make a significant difference,” Gateman said. The large team of researchers involved, including Joe Bryan Gilroy, Kirsten Oinonen, Lori Chambers, and Basim Abu Rafea, is dedicated to transforming the landscape of contraception.
Why It Matters
In today’s world, having reliable and low-maintenance contraception is more important than ever. The rising cost of living and legislative changes affecting reproductive rights make it crucial to have options that are safe, effective, and accessible to all. This project embodies the spirit of interdisciplinary collaboration and the drive to make a meaningful impact on women’s health and well-being.
By developing a new, gentler IUD, Gateman and her team are not just advancing science—they are offering hope and empowerment to women everywhere.
Related Articles:
