What is a Contraceptive Coil?

The contraceptive coil is a small T-shaped implant that can be placed into your womb to prevent you getting pregnant. Two different types of coil are available:

1. Intrauterine Device (IUD): the copper coil, which prevents eggs and sperm from surviving in the fallopian tubes and womb.
2. Intrauterine System (IUS): the hormonal coil, which works in a similar way to the pill by releasing progestogen.

Why Choose the Contraceptive Coil?

Both types of coil are fitted in the same way and have the same advantages:

• You won’t need to remember to take a pill or think about your contraception every day
• You won’t need to pause before sex to use a condom, unless you want to protect yourself against STIs
• The contraceptive coil is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy
• The effects will last for 5-10 years, after which a new coil can be fitted

What to Expect

The contraceptive coil needs to be fitted by a gynaecologist.

Before the coil is fitted:

• The doctor will perform an internal pelvic exam to check the size and position of your uterus so that the coil can be fitted correctly
• You may need to be tested and treated for any STIs before the coil insertion, to reduce the risk of complications

You will then be ready for the coil insertion:

• A speculum will be used to hold open the vagina
• The coil will be inserted through the cervix and into the uterus
• The doctor will then check that the coil is in the correct place by feeling for the two strings that should be hanging down from the womb
• The coil insertion can be slightly uncomfortable, but painkillers can help
• The procedure will only take about 15 minutes
• The coil will need to be checked again in about three to six weeks

What Happens Next

The contraceptive coil is a long term form of contraception that is very easy to use. Once it has been fitted:

• If you’ve had a copper coil or IUD fitted, your periods could become heavier or more irregular for a few months, but they should soon return to normal
• If you’ve had a hormonal coil or IUS fitted, your periods could get lighter. You might even stop having periods altogether.
• The copper coil protects you against pregnancy as soon as it is fitted.
• The hormonal coil will protect you straight away if it is fitted in the first week of your menstrual cycle. Otherwise it will take a week to start working.
• The coil will need to be replaced in 5-10 years when it stops working. Your gynaecologist can take it out for you.
• You can have the coil removed by your gynaecologist at any time and your fertility will return to normal.

Arranging an Appointment

If you would like to have a coil fitted, you can make an appointment with Miss Arafa at the Venus Women’s Clinic London. Miss Arafa is an experienced gynaecologist who can perform coil insertion or removal. Simply fill in the online form to request an appointment at a time that suits you.