Copper Coil Fitting
We understand that the prospect of getting a coil fitted can be a nerve-racking experience for a lot of people.
We’re here to make this process as easy and simple for you as possible, whilst ensuring your comfort at every stage.
Specialists in contraception
From busy NHS clinics
Highly confidential service
And discreetly located clinics
Unhurried appointments
With plenty of time for you
What is a copper coil (IUD)?
The IUD (intrauterine contraceptive device) is a small, T-shaped, plastic device that is inserted into and left inside the uterus, releasing copper as a non hormonal form of contraception.
Also known as ‘the coil’, it is a long acting reversible contraception (LARC).
The coil has one or two threads on the end which hang through the cervix into the top of the vagina, allowing you to check that the IUD is still in place.
When can the copper coil be fitted?
A copper coil can be fitted at any time of your menstrual cycle, as long as there is no chance of pregnancy.
If you are using a method of contraception, please continue with your pills, patches, injection or implant, including the day of your procedure. This may include reliable condom use.
Your clinician will inform you how long you will need to continue after the device is fitted.
If you are not currently using a method of contraception, it is advised to abstain from any sexual contact from the first day of your period. If attending for a refit of either devices, abstain for 7 days prior to appointment.
Using a coil as a emergency contraception
An IUD (or Copper Coil) can be used to prevent a pregnancy after a contraceptive-method failure/unprotected sex.
As a rule of thumb, it can be fitted within 5 days after unprotected sex, or up to 5 days after estimated ovulation.
How is it different from a Hormonal coil (or IUS)?
There are two types of coils. The IUD is a non-hormonal form of contraception, which releases tiny amounts of copper into the uterus. It can last for up to ten years of use.
On the other hand, the IUS (Intrauterine system), is a hormonal form of contraception, which prevents pregnancy by releasing the hormone progestin into the uterus. There are different brands of hormonal IUSs which are approved for up to 3-5 years of use.
Neither device offers any protection against sexually transmitted infections.
How does the fitting work?
Step 1: Pre-appointment online questionnaire
We will start the process by asking you to fill out an online questionnaire.
This will help us determine whether or not it is safe to offer you a coil, when will be the right time for you to come in and who will be best for you to see.
Step 2: Prepare for your appointment
We recommend a Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea PCR test
It is important that there is no underlying infection at the time of your coil fitting. This is to prevent any infection (if present) from travelling further up the uterus during the fitting and to avoid long term complications such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.
You may also wish to take a painkiller an hour before attending your appointment and have something to eat or drink.
Bring someone to drive you home
Some patients may feel a little faint after the fitting and may feel more comfortable to have someone drive them home.
Step 3: Begin with the consultation
We will begin by covering your medical, sexual and contraceptive history before moving to discussing any questions you may have about the coil.
We will spend plenty of time before the fitting to make sure that you are comfortable with the procedure and are confident that it is the right contraceptive method for you.
We will then turn to fitting your coil in the same appointment if you would like and it is safe to do so.
Step 4: Inserting your coil
The actual fitting of the coil usually takes approx. 5 minutes. We will begin by offering you a local anaesthetic gel – we will discuss this in the consultation.
Your clinician will then need to examine you internally by placing 2 fingers into the vagina and a hand on your abdomen. This can be briefly a little uncomfortable but it doesn’t take long.
A speculum is then inserted into the vagina so the neck of the womb (Cervix) can be seen.
A small clip then is placed onto the cervix to keep it still while a small straw like tube is placed through the cervix to measure the length of the womb. This can cause a fleeting period-like cramping pain.
Then it is time to place the device. The device is held in a tube which is inserted into the uterus. The coil is then released from the tube. Once in place, the threads to the device are trimmed and normally about 2cm outside the cervix. The clip and speculum are then removed and you can then rest back.
Once we’ve taken the speculum out, we will show you how to feel for the thread by yourself. We will also teach you how to check the coil threads yourself and discuss anything to look out for.
Some patient may experience a period-like discomfort after the coil fitting – this is quite normal.
Some patients also take this time to have their routine smear test, to save another visit. This, of course, depends on whether you feel comfortable doing so.
Step 5: After-care
We will then give you some privacy after the coil fitting, time to apply a sanitary pad (if required) and time to get dressed.
You may also wish to check in with us in 3-6 weeks if you have any further questions you would like to discuss.
How much does the fitting cost?
A complex fitting is one where a GP/clinician has failed to fit your coil or you have a certain medical condition that requires special attention.
You may decide to have your pre-coil fit Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea test in your appointment. We charge an additional £80 for this service with results in 3 hours (with complimentary postal Chlamydia treatment if positive).
Copper Coil Fitting (£180)
- Consultation
- Coil fitting (same appt. as consultation, if safe to do so)
- Includes cost of coil
- Follow up phone call in approx. 6 weeks
You may decide to have your pre-coil fit Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea test in your appointment. We charge an additional £80 for this service with results in 3 hours (with complimentary postal Chlamydia treatment if positive).
Read what our patients say
Everything was great. The doctor is so kind to people and he is an amazing human being I felt so comfortable and safe .The place is so clean and and private. The tests take only 20 minutes then you can get the result directly. It was the easiest way to book an appointment through the phone so everytime I called the secretary on the reception answered . I really recommend this clinic to everyone in need.
Very short waiting time.Was dealt with in a very professional manner.
Very good service had my moles removed and skin tags first class service I have had them with me for years and did not no were to go and they were all gone in 30 mins and with no pain thanks to the team at complete sexual heath
First time visiting Clarewell clinic ( Birmingham) Fantastic service the staff are really amazing all proffesional and friendly. Dr Malu you are a great man thank you for your proffessionalism, honesty, friendly attitude , being informative and being a good listener so rare to find 5 star treatment thank you and best wishes from Justina.
Very friendly, welcoming and professional. Got results very quickly and put my mind at ease, would 100% recommend using this clinic.
If I could rate more than 5 stars I would the service was much better than the nhs and during these times of lockdown I was seen same day without hesitation many thanks to the doctor who helped me during my hard times
I have been to Clarewell Clinic on a couple of occasions, once for wart removal, where Dr Malu explained to me exactly what he would have to do. I was made to feel comfortable and relaxed. I then had a follow up appointment, where again I was made to feel at ease. I recently went to the clinic again due to having an online test with another company and being phoned by them to say that the HIV part of the test had been reactive. As you can imagen I was very stressed. The clinic got me in the same day for an appointment and Dr Malu saw me and remembered me. This put me at ease, We did two blood tests and I found out within 3 hours that all was negative. I can highly recommend this clinic. All the staff are professional but also friendly and non judgmental.
They r professional and kind I was so scared of what I was dealing with but the doctor took of it they r so friendly aswell I have been there today and I already feel well
I had never been to a clinic for a check for STD before and I was nervous. But Dr.Manoj Malu will immediately put you at ease . I felt very comfortable with them and I was very pleased with everything including the cost . Great location I would recommend everyone who is worrying a lot about STI’s . They will put you at ease
Julie was extremely helpful and understanding. She understood me and listened which was very nice. Would definitely recommend thanks Julie… Bob
The best experience I’ve had. Julie made the process easy and clear aswell as making me feel comfortable and an amazing experience.
visited the clinic got an implant removal,Julie was amazing felt safe and secure I would definitely recommend Julie at the clinic got a same day appointment unlike the nhs which was 3 months wait
Very professional service from Clarewell Clinics who have looked after me with the greatest of respect over the last year. I would highly recommend this clinic to anyone with a sexual health problem, especially if you have been to other GP/doctors!
This is a brilliant clinic. The staff are really friendly and you feel at ease as soon as you walk in. The cleanest clinic ive been to aswell. The service is fantastic and Dr Malu is a champ, such a great guy. Same day results are also great as it defuses worry or panic. Lastly they make you an awsome herbal tea! I highly recommend you go to this place if your looking for precision and proffessionalism.
Visted to have implant remove. Julie was amazing, reassured my daughter as was very nervous..Julie talk everything through making us feel very comfortable, very professional .Would highly recommend Clarewell clinic ….
I can’t speak highly enough of Julie, the warmth in her approach puts your mind at ease immediately. An extremely professional and effective clinic, would highly recommend it.
Clean place, nice welcoming, very professional. I felt Confidential.
I wish there were more places like this! No need to wait weeks for an appointment (unlike NHS sexual health clinics). Julie was wonderful.
Julie was very welcoming and made you feel so at ease and not judged,thankyou for your help 🙏
Very professional, good service and very understanding of patient requirements
Very professional, friendly and welcoming service. Will efficiently address and resolve your concerns and worries! 11/10.
Clarewell Clinics made my experience very simple and easy. I would highly recommend this clinic to someone who wants quick answers and a professional service. Thank you to the whole team for helping me out!
Dr Malu and Julie were amazing. Really good care, professionals on top class, really careful. Explained everything before and after the treatment. Would definitely recommend them for anyone, who wonders. Thank you.
Very helpful from Julie. Delivery all the test for me and decrease my worrying. Song
The staff are super friendly, I was worried about an incident that occurred and the Dr was Amazing, thankfully results come clear definitely recommend these guys . Adam Ali
The clarewell clinic provided an incredibly friendly, comforting and supportive service! I was really pleased with the service I received, and came away feeling confident and reassured by the appointment I had received. 10/10 would strongly recommend!
I have received 5* service from Dr Malu. Who has put all my worries to rest, very lovely place & staff are outstanding. Dr Malu has been very supportive and understanding, would recommend to anyone.Thank you Clarewell !
Julie was lovely, very professional and down to earth, she puts you at ease straight away! She was great with my strange needle request as I’m not great with them!I think she went above and beyond to what my expectations were.Will definitely return for routine check ups.
Julie was amazing – she put me at ease straight away. She was professional, non judgemental and just generally lovely. I can’t thank you enough Julie.
Got my implant fitted here and it was such a nice experience. I’m afraid of blood but Julie put me to ease and she was very kind and helpful. Would recommend to anyone
Highly recommended. I had my contraceptive implant removed on 7/11/19 by Julie. I cant thank Julie enough. Professional and caring attitude from the moment I arrived. The procedure was fully explained and felt very much at ease. I’m happy to say the removal was a true success, risk free and pain free. Advisable to all who are looking for efficient contraceptive advice either fitting or removal then this is the place to come.
fast , friendly and efficient what more can you ask for.Very satisfied.
We found the staff very friendly and professional.They explained what to expect during the procedure and after and I felt confident and relaxed at all times.Thankyou x
My treatment was explained really clearly to me and was done within 45 mins both clinicians was very passional and made me feel at ease would definitely recommend
After having problems and suffering for a Long periods of time treatment after treatment My wart we’re spreading round my genital and my back passage. No help and treatment was given through NSH so I suffered in silent for many years. I needed treatment so went and booked an appointment to see Dr Malu at the Clarewell clinic him and this team put me at easy and it only took 2 appointment for the treatment. Am happy to say am free from warts now.
I had a wonderful experience going to see Julie and Karen, they were very professional but also very friendly. They immediately put me at ease and talked me through everything they were doing. I would highly recommend them.
One of the best service and best doctors ..! I have been to Birmingham clinic and the Dr Manoj K Malu is a wonderful person and provided a very professional service .. thank you doctor for your all help and for putting me at ease, I really appreciate ..!
First time I been to a private dr surgery Staff was very nice and helpful very informative Receptionist was very helpful and very nice I met a lot of people that work on receptions but this lady was very kind and helpful she made my experience very good made me feel like a friend I would definitely return to your surgery And I would recommend it to my friend and family thank you for all your help
Julie at the leicester clinic is the most incredible lady. She defused what was a very stressful situation for me into a calm easy process that took less than half an hour. After my Local GP had pretty much refused to take my coil out despite numerous attempts, I found Julie at the Clarewell Clinic whom was more than happy to remove this and advise me correctly, something which my GP did not do. From now onwards for any advice and/or future contraception I will be visiting the Julie at the Clarewell clinic. Thank you so so much again Julie! You are an amazing lady ❤️
Amazing place, would highly recommend and is much better and stress free than normal practices.
I absolutely cannot recommend Clarewell Clinics enough. This Tuesday just gone, I attended clinic for some concerns I had and saw Julie. Other reviews that I had read previously had all praised Julie, and after spending an hour with her on Tuesday afternoon, I was and still am overwhelmed with gratitude that I had been booked with her. Julie made my very worrying situation much easier than I could have ever imagined. She gave me every bit of information I needed, answered every question I had (even if I’d asked it already) with patience, kindness, and honesty, and she treated me with a wonderful amount of respect. I shall always be grateful to her for making my burden a lot lighter to carry. Thank you so much Julie, thank you so much Clarewell Clinics.
I was seen by Julie for my implant removal. Julie was kind and professional. She put me at ease and removed my implant painlessly. I would thoroughly recommend seeing Julie.The clinic was clean and calm. It was a nice environment to be treated in.
I am very happy with the level of service that was provided. on both appointments I was seen straight away, no waiting around. very friendly staff, I couldn’t of asked for more. Do not hesitate you are well worth the money. Big thanks to Dr Malu
Quality service. No complaints. Feels a bit weird reviewing this kind of place 👍
Absolutely fantastic service from the whole team at Clarewell, I highly recommend Clarewell to anyone needing the services they offer.The whole team do everything possible to make you feel totally comfortable and reassured from the minute you walk through the door. The receptionist, nurse and the brilliant Dr Malu are all 10/10.If you’re considering visiting them then definitely DO IT!
Manoj is brilliant and can put u at ease instantly deffonatly recommend
Very happy to finally find a clinic where they know what they are doing. I am writing here so that other people suffering like me get right help. I have taken few sessions for shockwave treatment. Good results.
Great service, lovely nurse who was very helpful and caring. Highly reccomend!!
A very professional and nice and friendly staff. Dealt with the problem I came in with. Will be back if I have any other sexual health problem. Thanks.
Can’t recommend this place enough, As soon as you walk in the door you are met with a very well mannered and friendly young man. Dr Malu puts you right at ease and and works through your problems with you offering advice as to how to attack these issues. He is very thorough and professional, always with your best interest at heart. Thank you very much.
Despite being nervous and apprehensive I was made to feel very relaxed and calm. Julie was excellent, professional yet non judgemental with lots of genuine friendly advice – I can’t recommend Julie and the clinic highly enough!
If I could give more than 5 stars I would. Very professional. I will always recommend this clinic.
Fantastic professional service made me feel at ease throughout despite being nervous quick results & only recommended the services I needed. Thanks you
Dr Malu was extremely helpful and caring, you can tell he genuinely cares about patients and their health and he helped reassure me and calm my nerves from the beginning. If you are worried or have any problems save yourself the stress and see Dr Malu! I wish I would of came much sooner! Very calm, clean environment and helpful polite receptionist. Very understanding about your situation and not judgmental. Will definitely be returning for routine check ups ! Thank you for my good news today 🙂 can finally move on.
Asbaloulty fantastic service went today to have NY implant removed doctor was great thank you highly recommend
a very good doctor. very helpful
Thank you to the fantastic dr kumar and the team, they put me at ease and treated me with total respect. My treatment was done within an hour. I had previously had nhs treatment which hadn’t worked. I would recommend anyone with stds to contact clarewell.. thank you all who have helped me
I was a student here at Clarewell Clinics and found the services that this clinic provided was fantastic. All members of staff were polite and welcomed me with open arms. They are a highly professional team, building rapport with the patients and ensuring they are at ease. I was given lots of opportunity, experience and information regarding sexual health. I definitely recommend Clarewell Clinics.
Excellent service and brilliant facilities. I cannot praise Dr Manoj enough for his efficiency, as well Dr Kunur for his expertise. Both highly capable surgeons. I can truly say it was a job well done and I would recommend to anyone looking for treatment to visit this clinic. Once again thank you so much for everything.
Very professional and high quality of service!
Very professional and friendly. Doctor put me at ease when he seen I was nervous, and was very good at listening to my worries and took the time to reassure me. 100% recommend this clinic, very respectful service.
Very efficient and professional service from staff. Extremely kind and knowledgeable doctor.
Dr Malu provided a caring and informative service, and removed my partners skin seborrheic keratosis , with some excellent results
The best experience I ever had with a doctor. Great clinic, I highly recommend it!
Great service and experience. The staff and the doctor were kind and they will put you on ease. Same day results and the doctor advice help me of better understanding of potential risks for my sex health and brought to my attention that despite HIV there are other STI that we should be aware off. I will highly recommend this clinic.
Dr. Malu really listened to my fears and took his time during our consultation. I never felt rushed and it was one of the best doctor’s appointments I have ever had (I was nervous for the appointment obviously). The premises are humble (as I believe they are fairly new) BUT the service was impeccable..!!! The man working reception was extremely polite and had a calming presence. The nurse was extremely pleasant, helpful and calming as well. The doctor and nurse seemed like a team whose purpose was to help me and I really appreciated that… I felt like everyone genuinely cared about me and I can’t thank them enough… highly recommend.
First time used a private clinic with no stasifactory resolution of my concerns with my usual doctors. It was a massive decision for me as I had never gone private before. I was a bit apprehensive about the how much this may all cost me. Team in this clinic are professionals and truly caring. They explain the things to you every step of the way and only did tests and treatment after seeking my permission. I wanted to have some tests done but they advised against them with an explanation why they are unnecessary.I will recommend this clinic.
I would like to recommend this Clinic to anyone. Had a great customer service, make you feel very comfortable, keep you calm and cleared all my doubts, and also very hygienic and helpful.
First Class service, Dr Malu very professional doctor who made me feel at ease and spent the time to explain and answer my questions, very friendly staff and promt service, would recommend complete sexual health to be a five star service
Attended private sexual health clinic today. Was extremely nervous but was quickly reassured by the doctor. He spent time listening to my concerns and made me feel at ease. Testing was very quick and easy. Results same day. Have already recommended the service to my friends.
Everything was great. The doctor is so kind to people and he is an amazing human being I felt so comfortable and safe .The place is so clean and and private. The tests take only 20 minutes then you can get the result directly. It was the easiest way to book an appointment through the phone so everytime I called the secretary on the reception answered . I really recommend this clinic to everyone in need.
Very short waiting time.Was dealt with in a very professional manner.
Very good service had my moles removed and skin tags first class service I have had them with me for years and did not no were to go and they were all gone in 30 mins and with no pain thanks to the team at complete sexual heath
First time visiting Clarewell clinic ( Birmingham) Fantastic service the staff are really amazing all proffesional and friendly. Dr Malu you are a great man thank you for your proffessionalism, honesty, friendly attitude , being informative and being a good listener so rare to find 5 star treatment thank you and best wishes from Justina.
Very friendly, welcoming and professional. Got results very quickly and put my mind at ease, would 100% recommend using this clinic.
How does the IUD work?
The IUD releases copper ions into the uterus, which is toxic to sperm and eggs. The copper interferes with the sperm’s ability to survive and travel through the cervix into the womb, which prevents the fertilisation of an egg.
The IUD also alters the cervical mucus, making it difficult for the sperm to penetrate. In the case that the sperm does fertilise the egg, the IUD can prevent the egg from implanting itself in the uterus.
How effective is an IUD?
The IUD is a method of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC). LARCs are extremely effective forms of contraception, as there is no room for user error, provided that the IUD has been fitted properly.
When inserted and placed correctly, the IUD is over 99% effective. This means that fewer than 1 in 100 IUD users will become pregnant in 1 year. When the IUD is used for 5 years, fewer than 2 in 100 IUD users will become pregnant in 5 years.
You can compare this to 100 sexually active women who don’t use any contraception; 80 – 90 of these women will get pregnant in 1 year.
The IUD also begins to work as soon as it is fitted.
What are the benefits of the IUD?
The IUD has the following benefits:
- It is a non hormonal contraception and so there are no hormonal side effects (eg. breast tenderness, mood changes, acne)
- It does not affect any other medicines you may be taking.
- It is very unlikely that the IUD will cause you to put on weight.
- There is no evidence to show that the IUD increases the risk of cervical, uterine or ovarian cancer.
- It can last up to ten years.
- It is easy to use and there is no room for user error.
- No one can tell that you are using birth control.
- It does not interfere with sex or daily activities. You can use a tampon or a menstrual cup with it.
- It can be inserted immediately after an abortion, a miscarriage, or childbirth and be used while breastfeeding.
- Almost all women are suitable for an IUD. There are few medical problems that prevent its use.
- The IUD does not affect your ability to get pregnant in the future, and in fact, your fertility returns almost immediately after removal (which is why we recommend avoiding unprotected sex for 7 days before removal)
- The copper IUD also is the most effective form of emergency contraception.
What are possible side effects of using the IUD?
When a woman first uses an IUD, changes in menstrual bleeding are normal and expected.
Some women experience heavier menstrual bleeding and menstrual pain, as well as bleeding between periods, bruising and cramps. These changes may last for as long as the IUD is fitted, or may only only last for the first 3-6 months.
However, there are no hormonal side effects of using the copper coil, such as acne, breast tenderness and mood changes.
What are possible risks of using the IUD?
Serious complications from IUDs are rare. However, some women do have problems. These problems usually happen during or soon after insertion:
- Approximately 1 in 20 women, the IUD may be pushed out of the uterus (expulsion), or move (displacement). The risk is higher in teenagers, women with heavy menstrual bleeding, and women who have an IUD inserted immediately after childbirth. If the IUD comes out, it is no longer effective. You may be able to have a new IUD placed.
- The IUD can perforate the wall of the uterus during placement. This usually does not cause any major health problems, but the IUD will need to be removed, sometimes through surgery. It is rare and occurs in only about 1 out of every 1,000 placements. If your clinician fitting the IUD is experienced, the risk of perforation is very low. In women who are breastfeeding, the risk is 6 times higher.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) after IUD insertion happens very rarely. Using an IUD does not by itself increase the risk of PID. Women with an undiagnosed STI at the time of IUD insertion are more likely to develop PID than women without an STI. We recommend screening for chlamydia and gonorrhoea before or during your IUD fitting where possible.
- Rarely, pregnancy may occur while a woman is using an IUD. If pregnancy occurs, and you wish to continue the pregnancy, the IUD should be removed. If the IUD remains in place during pregnancy, there are increased risks of miscarriage and infection.
- In the rare case that a pregnancy occurs with the IUD in place, there is a higher chance that it will be an ectopic pregnancy. This is a serious condition that needs medical attention right away.
Does the procedure hurt?
It can be mildly painful to have the coil inserted or removed. Our specialists will walk you through what to expect and how to be prepared during the consultation. You may ask any questions you may have and then discuss ways in which to make the procedure more comfortable.
We also offer a local anaesthetic which is administered in a tube and is a very clear jelly like substance. Whilst this does not guarantee the procedure will be pain free, it can help to reduce some of the discomfort.
How do I check that the IUD is in place?
During your fitting, your clinician will show you how to check that the threads are in place. It’s best to repeat this a few times after the procedure and then every few months or so afterwards.
If you think that your IUD has moved, you can feel something hard like the end of a matchstick or you can’t feel the strings, we would advise that you use another form of contraception and don’t hesitate to get in touch with us so that we can remove or refit the IUD.
Otherwise, the strings should not bother you, but in rare cases your partner may be able to feel them during sex. If this causes a problem, please do get in touch, as our clinicians may be able to trim the strings for you.
What if I feel unwell after the IUD is fitted in?
Some women may feel dizzy, faint, or light headed immediately after the procedure. It is advised to stay lying down until these symptoms have passed.
If you feel unwell and have pain in your lower abdomen, with a high temperature or a smelly discharge from your vagina, this may be a sign of infection, so please don’t hesitate to contact us, or your local healthcare provider.
What if I want to stop using the IUD or want to get pregnant?
Please get in touch to arrange a removal appointment. It is recommended to avoid unprotected sex for 7 days before the removal to avoid unexpected pregnancy, as you can become pregnant from the moment the IUD is removed.
Can anyone use an IUD?
Almost anyone with a uterus is clinically suitable for an IUD, though this does not factor lifestyle preferences. This includes those who have never been pregnant or had children, young people and those who are HIV positive.
Some conditions which may mean you shouldn’t use an IUD are that you:
- Think you already might be pregnant
- Have an untreated sexually transmitted infection or pelvic infection
- Have problems with your uterus or cervix
- Have unexplained bleeding from your vagina (for example, between periods and after sex)
- Have Wilson’s Disease
If you have had an ectopic pregnancy, or you have an artificial heart valve, you must consult your clinician before having an IUD fitted.
When will my IUD start to work?
An IUD can be placed at any point during your menstrual cycle, provided you are not pregnant. The copper coil becomes effective as soon as it is fitted, which is why it’s often used for emergency contraception.
Using condoms is advised to reduce the risk of infection and early expulsion in the first few weeks from fitting.
I’ve just had a baby. Can I have an IUD?
An IUD can be fitted immediately after delivery or caesarean. If it is not fitted within 48 hours, you will need to wait at least 4 weeks until the IUD can be placed, and use another method of contraception until it is fitted.
The IUD does not interfere with breastfeeding and won’t affect your milk supply.
Can I use an IUD after a miscarriage or an abortion?
Yes. You’ll also be protected from pregnancy immediately.
Can I continue to use tampons and menstrual cups if I have an IUD?
Yes; it is safe to use tampons and menstrual cups after having an IUD fitted.
During your first period after the IUD fitting, using tampons is fine during heavier days of bleeding, but please be careful when the bleeding begins to subside, as the new threads can catch on a dry tampon.
Please be careful not to remove the thread when removing tampons and menstrual cups.
What if I think I’m pregnant?
It is very unlikely that you will become pregnant when using an IUD. If you do get pregnant, there is an increased risk of an ectopic pregnancy that develops outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube.
If you have a period that is unusually light, miss a period, suspect you may be pregnant and/or have sudden or unusual pain in your lower abdomen, please get in touch, and seek medical advice immediately.
How long does the appointment take?
The appointment is approx. 30 minutes long and this includes enough time for the consultation + the fitting of the coil.
Those looking to have an implant or previous coil removed in the same appointment may require 45 minutes.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. You can bring someone with you to your appointment. Some patients feel a little faint after the procedure and may want someone to drive them home.
Will I need a time off after the procedure?
Most patients do not need any time off work after the procedure. However, it is advised to rest immediately afterwards, avoid strenuous activity and avoid menstrual cups for up to 6 weeks after the procedure.