Contraceptive Coils
Service Information and Self-Referral
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What is a coil?
A ‘coil’ is the term used to describe an ‘intrauterine device’ (IUD) or ‘intrauterine system’ (IUS).
An IUD is a small T-shaped plastic and copper device that’s put into your womb (uterus), whereas an IUS is a small, T-shaped plastic device, also inserted into your uterus.
IUD’s release copper to stop you getting pregnant and protects against pregnancy for 5 – 10 years.
IUS’s releases the hormone progestogen to stop you getting pregnant and lasts for 3 – 8 years.
How to book your coil at Shifnal & Priorslee Medical Practice
If you think you would like to have a contraceptive coil fitted, please first of all make an appointment with a Nurse Practitioner, who will have a chat with you about the coil and other forms of contraception.
Dr Chantel Engelberts provides a coil service within the practice, where patients can have a contraceptive coil fitted. Dr Paul Chandler also offers both contraceptive coil and implant insertion and removals within the practice.
If you are suitable for a coil and would like to go ahead you will be added to our coil clinic waiting list, where you will then receive options for an appointment to have your coil fitted, during one of our specialised clinics.
Please have a look and read through our consent form
IUD Facts
- When inserted correctly, IUDs are more than 99% effective.
- An IUD works as soon as it’s put in and lasts for 5 to 10 years, depending on the type.
- It can be put in at any time during your menstrual cycle, as long as you’re not pregnant.
- It can be taken out at any time by a specially trained doctor or nurse. It’s then possible to get pregnant straight away.
- Your periods can be heavier, longer or more painful in the first 3 to 6 months after an IUD is put in. You might get spotting or bleeding between periods.
- There’s a small risk of getting an infection after it’s been fitted.
- There’s a small risk that your body may push out the IUD or it may move. Your doctor or nurse will teach you how to check it’s in place.
- It can be uncomfortable when the IUD is put in, but you can take painkillers after, if you need to.
- It may not be suitable if you have had previous pelvic infections.
- It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so you may need to use condoms as well.
IUS Facts
- When inserted correctly, it’s more than 99% effective.
- It can be taken out at any time by a specially trained doctor or nurse. It’s possible to get pregnant straight after it’s removed.
- It can make your periods lighter, shorter or stop altogether, so it may help people who have heavy or painful periods.
- It can be used by people who cannot use combined contraception (such as the combined pill) – for example, those who have migraines.
- Once the IUS is in place, you do not have to think about it.
- Some people may experience side effects, such as mood swings, skin problems or breast tenderness.
- There’s a small risk of getting an infection after it’s been fitted.
- It can be uncomfortable when the IUS is put in, but you can take painkillers after, if you need to.
- The IUS can be fitted at any time during your monthly menstrual cycle, as long as you’re not pregnant.
- The IUS does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so you may need to use condoms as well.
Do's and Don'ts
Do
Before
- Watch the videos on our contraceptive coil page
- Use an effective method of contraception
- Eat breakfast/lunch on the day of your appointment
- Take a painkiller an hour before your appointment
- Try and not bring small children or babies with you to the fitting, please try and bring a friend with you who could take care of them outside the room- but please do not worry if this is not possible.
Afterwards
- Use a hot water bottle or heat pad for any cramps
- Use a sanitary pad for the first three days after your fitting
- Use an extra contraceptive if needed
Don't
Before
- Have unprotected sex after your last period
- Skip breakfast
Afterwards
- Make lots of plans afterwards, as you may need to take it easy and relax for the rest of the day
- Use tampons after your fitting
- Have sex for three days after your fitting
Important information before having a coil fitted
Please use a reliable method of contraception until the coil is fitted or NO SEX from the start of the period before the IUD appointment. If requiring IUD/S replacement, PLEASE REFRAIN FROM SEX 7 days prior to your appointment.
