How To Prepare

Please watch our short film below and read the information on this webpage, even if you have had an IUD fitted before. You might also find our FAQ useful. You can still ask us questions when you come to your appointment.

We are unable to fit an IUD if there is any risk of pregnancy, therefore it is important you use another method of contraception until your appointment.

If you are not currently using contraception:

• Use condoms (or do not have sex) until your IUD appointment.
• If you attend for an IUD fit and have had condomless sex since your last period, we may not be able to fit your IUD.
• If you attend for an IUD fit and have had condomless sex in the 3 weeks prior to your appointment, we may not be able to fit your IUD.

If you are currently using contraception correctly (e.g., condoms, pills, patch, ring, injection, implant):

• Continue to use this until your appointment.
• You may also need to continue using this contraception for 7 days after your IUD fit, but the clinician who fits your IUD will give you further information at your appointment.

If you currently have an IUD in place and are attending for an IUD change (removal and replacement):

• In the 7 days prior to your appointment, either use condoms or do not have sex.

If you are currently using an expired method of contraception (e.g., implant or IUD after the date you were advised to have it changed):

• Use condoms (or do not have sex) until your IUD insertion appointment.
• If you have had any unprotected sex in the 3 weeks prior to your appointment, we may not be able to fit your IUD.

On the day of your appointment, we suggest you.

• Have breakfast or lunch before you come.
• Take painkillers e.g., paracetamol or ibuprofen (if suitable) 1 hour before your appointment.
• Talk to us if you have any worries or concerns. Most people who want an IUD manage to have it fitted. However, some people find having an IUD fitted especially difficult, such as those who have experienced sexual assault or trauma. We will always treat you with respect and we will always stop if you are sore or upset. We encourage you to talk to us about your concerns or worries when you come to see us.
• Bring something to keep you occupied. For example, some people like to listen to music on their phone during the procedure.
• Think about how you are getting home. Some people can experience cramps or occasionally feel unwell after an IUD fitting. You may want to have someone to accompany you home.

We will give you an information leaflet after you have your IUD fitted but it might be helpful to know a few things just now. After you have an IUD fitted you;

• May need painkillers such as paracetamol and/or ibuprofen for pain. You might also want to take it easy for the rest day. Some people find hot water bottles helpful for cramps.
• Don’t use tampons or menstrual cups for the first 3-4 weeks. Sanitary pads are fine.
• Check your threads after 4-6 weeks by placing one or two fingers gently inside the vagina. If you are unable to feel them, you should contact your GP surgery who will be able to help.

Avoid sex or use condoms or other contraception for 7 days after having a hormone IUD fitted.