Thinking about getting a contraceptive coil for long-acting reversible contraception but not sure what to expect? Choosing an intrauterine device (IUD), be it a non-hormonal copper coil or a hormonal coil such as a Mirena, can be a big decision. This article will hopefully guide you through the process, and answer any questions you may have or be unsure about.
Key Takeaways
- You can usually have an IUD fitted by a specially trained doctor at a NHS GP surgery or specialist contraception clinic.
- The fitting procedure typically takes around 10 minutes, but allow at least 30 to 40 minutes for the appointment.
- The procedure involves a doctor gently inserting a speculum into your vagina and then the IUD into your womb through your cervix.
- IUDs can be highly effective, with some types being more than 99% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancy.
When to get the coil fitted
The non-hormonal and hormonal coils can be fitted at any time, as long as there’s no pregnancy risk for over 7 days before. If you’ve recently had a baby, it can be fitted within the first 48 hours after birth or 4 weeks later. If you’ve had an abortion, you can get it fitted right away.
However, if there was a pregnancy risk in the 7 days before fitting (or less than 5 days after your earliest possible ovulation that cycle), you can have the copper coil fitted. This is as a form of emergency contraception. You can then keep it for ongoing contraception if you wish.
The fitting of the copper coil, a small t-shaped plastic and copper device, takes about 5-10 minutes. The whole appointment usually takes at least 30 minutes. This flexible, non-hormonal method can last up to 10 years, depending on the type.
Some discomfort or the need for extra pain relief is possible during the procedure. But, the coil can be fitted at any time during your menstrual cycle, as long as you’re not pregnant.
Rare but important risks of fitting an IUD
Fitting the aIUD be it hormonal or non-hormonal is normally perfectly safe. But there are some rare risks to know about. One concern is risk of infection. If you have an existing infection like chlamydia or gonorrhoea, fitting a coil could move the infection deeper into your body.
If you notice any worrying symptoms, like lower tummy pain or a high temperature after having a IUD fitted, get medical help right away. Symptoms like unusual or smelly discharge, heavy bleeding, or thinking you might be pregnant are also serious. Make sure to check the coil is still in place regularly, especially in the first few months after fitting.
If you have an undiagnosed or untreated infection
If you have an infection like chlamydia or gonorrhoea without treatment, the coil might move the infection deeper into your body. This could cause a more severe infection. It’s important to know the signs to watch for after getting the coil.
Look out for pain that’s not a normal crampy pain in your lower abdomen, a high temperature, and a smelly discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms a few weeks after getting the coil, see your GP right away. Not treating an infection can lead to a pelvic infection. This could cause infertility or chronic pain.
The risk of infection is higher only for a few weeks after getting the coil. After that, the coil doesn’t increase your risk of infection. But, it’s still key to treat any infections you have, as the coil won’t protect you from sexually transmitted infections.
Risk of perforation
Putting in a coil is usually safe, but there’s a tiny chance, about 1 in 1,000, it might go through the uterus wall. This is called uterine perforation and can happen when it’s being put in or within the first few months following insertion. Usually, people don’t feel it at the time.
If the coil goes through the uterus, it can end up in the abdomen outside the womb. This is a serious issue that needs medical intervention. Signs include a lot of pain, bleeding, or being no unable to feel the coil threads.
There’s a bigger chance of this happening right after childbirth, when the uterus is soft and the cervix is open, the risk around this time is closer to 1 in 200. Doctors at The Coil Clinic are trained to lower this risk, but it can still happen, even with the best care.
If you have strange symptoms after getting your coil, like a lot of pain or odd bleeding, get in touch with your doctor or clinic quickly. They can check where the coil is and make sure everything’s okay.
Risk of it falling out
There is also a risk that the device might fall out, especially during a heavy period. This could happen to 1 in 20 women. If it’s partly out, you might feel the coil’s lower tip or notice the threads feel longer. If this happens, use condoms as extra protection and see your doctor or GP.
When an IUD falls out, it means it’s moved from the uterus, partly or fully. This is more common in women who have never been pregnant, are under 20, have heavy or painful periods, or had the IUD put in after a second-trimester abortion.
The chance of an IUD falling out is highest right after it’s put in. Signs that it has fallen out include stomach pain, pelvic pain, and vaginal bleeding. If you feel the coil’s lower tip or the threads seem longer, use extra birth control and contact your doctor or GP right away.
What should I do before my coil appointment?
Before your coil fitting appointment, there are a few important things to do. First, eat an hour before your appointment. This stops you from feeling dizzy or faint because of low blood sugar. Also, take a painkiller such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage any pain during the procedure.
It’s wise to bring someone with you to your appointment. They can support you and help you get home safely if you’re not feeling well. Getting a taxi or a lift with a friend is also a good idea instead of using public transport. It’s more comfortable and convenient.
By preparing in these ways, you can make your coil fitting appointment go smoothly. Your healthcare provider is there to help you and answer any questions about your method of contraception. So, don’t worry about asking them anything or sharing your concerns.
Will it be painful?
Getting a coil fitted can be a bit uncomfortable, but the pain is short-lived. This discomfort comes from the cervix stretching during the procedure. Some might feel a bit faint or sick right after, especially if the cervix stretching makes them dizzy.
The fitting appointment is quick, taking about 40 minutes, with the actual procedure typically being just a few minutes. Most people say the pain is mild to moderate, not severe when the IUD is inserted. A study found pain levels were already low just five minutes post-insertion.
How much discomfort you feel might depend on if you’ve had a vaginal birth before. If you have, the coil fitting might be less painful since your cervix is already stretched.
How is the coil fitted?
When you get a coil fitted, you’ll lie down on your back with your knees bent usually on a specialised bed. A speculum will be used to gently hold your vagina open. A local anaesthetic gel or spray is sometimes applied to your cervix, which may feel a bit cold.
The doctor will use forceps to steady your cervix. They’ll then use a sterile probe to measure the size and position of your womb. The coil, with its arms folded down, is packed inside a narrow tube. This tube is carefully inserted through your cervix and into your womb.
Once the tube is in place, the clinician will pull it out, leaving the coil behind. The arms of the coil will then unfold, securing it within your womb. Before the speculum is removed, the threads of the coil will be trimmed to the desired length.
What happens afterwards?
After getting your coil fitted, it’s a good idea to lie down for a few minutes. This helps you rest. You should also take it easy for the rest of the day. Taking paracetamol, using hot water bottles, and enjoying warm baths can ease any pain you might feel.
Many women feel crampy for 2-3 days after the coil fitting. Sometimes, this discomfort can last up to two weeks. You might see some bleeding that’s lighter than your usual period for the first 6-9 months, especially with hormone-containing coils.
With a copper coil, your periods might get heavier, longer, and more crampy. But, you can still use tampons. If you have severe discomfort, fever, unusual discharge, or increasing pelvic pain, you should get medical advice.
You don’t need regular coil checks if you can continue to feel the threads and it’s in place.
Check for coil threads after your period
It’s crucial to check your coil’s threads after your period. About 1 in 20 coils might fall out, often in the first 3 months. This check helps make sure your coil is still in place and working right.
To do this, put your fingers into your vagina and find your cervix. Your cervix feels like a smooth, firm lump at the top of your vagina. When you touch the cervix, you should feel the coil’s threads. These threads are thicker than cotton but thinner than regular string.
What do you do if you can’t feel the threads?
If you can’t feel the threads of your IUD, don’t worry. It’s a common issue. First, visit our clinic, your GP or Sexual Health Clinic. They will check you and try to find the threads. If they can’t find them, they might use an ultrasound scan to see if the iud is still in place.
Until you know your coil is in place, use another form of birth control, like condoms. This is because the coil might have come out, leaving you at risk of getting pregnant.
Sometimes, the threads can be hidden inside your womb, making them hard to feel. Your doctor will try to get the threads out and check the coil’s position. If the coil has moved or come out, they will remove it and talk about other birth control options with you.
How do you get the IUD removed?
Getting your coil removed is a quick process that only takes a few minutes.
The doctor will first use a speculum to see the entrance to your uterus and find the coil’s threads. Then, they’ll use forceps to carefully pull the coil out past the cervix, guiding it through your vagina.
This method works the same for both hormonal and non-hormonal coils. You can have it removed at The Coil Clinic and most sexual health clinics. You won’t need pain relief or time off work afterwards.
Use another contraceptive 7 days before removal
There’s a chance you could get pregnant when you remove your coil. To avoid this, use another birth control method or don’t have unprotected sex for 7 days before removing it. This is because a fertilised egg might move down the tube and implant if the coil is gone.
Using another birth control or not having sex before removing your coil helps ensure a safe change. This is important to prevent any unplanned pregnancy during this time.
By following these steps, you can feel secure as you switch birth control methods. Always choose caution for your reproductive health.
FAQ
What is a non-hormonal copper intrauterine device (IUD)?
A non-hormonal copper IUD, also known as a copper coil, is a small, flexible plastic and copper device that is inserted into the uterus for contraception. It works by releasing copper, which prevents pregnancy without using hormones.
How effective is the copper coil as a contraceptive method?
The copper coil is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. It’s a long-lasting, reversible contraceptive method that can work for up to 5-10 years, depending on the specific type of IUD.
How is an IUD fitted?
An IUD is fitted by a doctor or nurse during a simple procedure. The coil comes with its arms folded, and it’s inserted through the cervix into the uterus. Once in place, the arms open to form a T-shape. The procedure itself usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
Is the process of fitting an IUD painful?
Some women may experience discomfort or cramping during the fitting process. Your doctor or nurse may suggest taking pain relievers before the procedure. Most women find that any discomfort subsides quickly after the IUD is in place.
Can I use an IUD if I want to become pregnant in the future?
Yes, you can use an IUD and still become pregnant in the future. The copper IUD is a reversible form of contraception. When you decide you want to try for a pregnancy, your doctor can remove the IUD, and your fertility should return to normal quickly.
Are there any side effects of using a non-hormonal coil?
While the non-hormonal coil doesn’t have hormonal side effects, some women may experience heavier or longer periods, especially in the first few months after insertion. Other possible side effects include cramping or spotting between periods. These effects usually diminish over time.
How long can I keep the copper IUD in place?
Depending on the specific type of copper IUD, you can keep it in place for 5-10 years. Your doctor will advise you on how long your particular IUD can remain effective. You can have the IUD removed at any time if you no longer need contraception or wish to switch methods.
Can the IUD protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
No, the IUD does not protect against STIs. It’s designed to prevent pregnancy only. If you need protection against STIs, you should use condoms in addition to the IUD.
How soon after fitting can the IUD start to work for contraception?
The copper IUD starts working immediately after it’s inserted. In fact, if it’s fitted within 5 days of the start of your period, it’s effective right away. If it’s fitted at any other time in your cycle, you’ll need to use another method of contraception for 7 days after insertion.
