Coil without hormones (IUD)
This is a small device that’s inserted into the womb. Once in place you don’t need to worry about getting pregnant for five to 10 years, depending on the type used. The coil stops sperm reaching an egg and can also stop a fertilised egg from implanting.
Advantages
- Works as soon as it is put in
- Lasts for 5-10 years depending on the type
- It can be used when breastfeeding
- Your fertility returns to normal as soon as the Cu-IUD is taken out
- It’s not affected by other medicines
Disadvantages
- Your periods may be heavier, longer or more painful. This may improve after a few months.
- You will need an internal examination to check that the Cu-IUD is suitable to be fitted.
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
- If you get a sexually transmitted infection whilst the Cu-IUD is in place it could lead to a pelvic infection if left untreated.
Preparing for your coil fitting appointment
We strongly recommend that you watch this film (reproduced with permission from Sexual Health in Plymouth - SHiP), as it gives you all the information you need about intra-uterine methods (coils).
Contraception coil (IUS & IUD)
This form will help you decide if you are ready to have the IUD/IUS fitted. Please print and complete it and bring it with you when you come for your appointment.
About the coil
A doctor or nurse will discuss your contraceptive needs and explain the pros and cons of the coil. They will decide if a hormone coil (Mirena) or a copper coil (IUD) will be best for you. We will try to fit your coil on your first appointment but this may not always be possible.
A coil fitting appointment usually takes about 30 minutes; this will include a consultation, examination, possible testing for infection and coil fitting.
Please make sure you have plenty of time for your appointment. Where possible please find childcare for small children. It is very important that there is no possibility that you are pregnant at the time of a coil fitting - so please make sure that you have used contraception carefully for at least three weeks before your appointment.
It is normal to have erratic bleeding or sometimes heavy bleeding after a coil fitting but if you develop a smelly discharge or pain this could be a sign of infection, please contact us or your GP for advice.
Will I need painkillers?
Some women do find coil fitting uncomfortable, we suggest that you take your usual painkillers, e.g. two 500mg Paracetamol tablets or one 400mg Ibuprofen tablet one hour prior to the coil fitting.
Many women have a crampy period type pain and light discharge for a few days afterwards.
How is a coil removed?
This is usually very straightforward. If you do not wish to be pregnant please ensure that you have used contraception (or not had sex) for one week prior to your coil removal.
Sometimes women are asked to see us because their usual doctor has been unable to remove their coil. In this case we would ask you to take painkillers before your appointment.
Why is the coil used in emergencies?
We do also fit coils as a form of emergency contraception, but this is only possible at certain times of your monthly cycle and dependent on when you last had sex. The coil is the most effective form of emergency contraception and can be used even if you have been unprotected a number of times. Please ask for more information if you wish to consider this.
What about coil changes?
Sometimes we are unable to fit a new coil after a coil removal. If you have had sex in the previous week before a coil removal you can become pregnant so please ensure you have used other contraception or not had sex for one week prior to a coil change.
Following a coil fit its normal to have period type discomfort which should be eased by taking over the counter pain relief. You may have some vaginal bleeding which should soon settle.
If you think you have a problem with your coil, such as threads are too long or you can’t feel them, or you think your coil has fallen out or is coming out, please telephone our information and booking line on 0800 328 3383 and avoid sexual intercourse or use condoms. If you have a serious concern seek appropriate medical advice.
Where can I get it?
LARC is free and available at our Sexual Health Services via GP practices and sexual health clinics - LARC GP and clinic finder.
For more information, you can also visit the Copper Coil contraception guide from the Family Planning Association