Welcome to Romsey Medical

Coil (IUD & IUS) Fitting and Removal

Long-acting, reversible contraception, safely fitted by an experienced private GP team

Suitability for any contraceptive method is assessed during consultation. Outcomes and experiences vary between individuals.

Always ensuring the method is appropriate and safe for you.

romsey-medical-practice-logo-x2
Trust Logo

An Effective Method of Contraception

We’re pleased to now offer coil (IUD and IUS) fitting and removal appointments at our practice. These long-acting, reversible contraceptives are among the most effective methods of contraception available and can suit many women at different stages of life.

All fittings and removals are carried out following a full clinical assessment, ensuring the method is appropriate and safe for you.

Conciderations for the Coil

  • Long-acting, reversible contraception
  • Fitted by trained healthcare professionals
  • Clear discussion of risks, benefits and alternatives
  • Ongoing support and follow-up advice

What is an IUD or IUS?

The “coil” is the common name for a small T-shaped device placed
into the womb (uterus) to prevent pregnancy. There are two main types:

Copper coil (IUD – Intrauterine Device)

  • Non-hormonal
  • Made from plastic and copper
  • Uses copper to prevent fertilisation

Hormonal coil (IUS – Intrauterine System)

  • Releases progestogen (a synthetic version of progesterone)
  • Thickens cervical mucus and thins the womb lining
  • For some people, can also reduce bleeding and period pain

Both devices are long-acting and reversible, meaning fertility returns quickly once removed.

How the coil prevents pregnancy

The copper coil (IUD):

  • Releases copper, which prevents sperm and eggs from surviving
  • Changes cervical mucus to make it harder for sperm to reach an egg
  • May also prevent a fertilised egg from implanting

The hormonal coil (IUS):

  • Releases progestogen
  • Thickens cervical mucus
  • Thins the lining of the womb
  • Some people may stop ovulating, but many continue to ovulate normally

How long does it work for?

• Copper coil (IUD): 5–10 years (depending on type)
• Hormonal coil (IUS): 3–5 years (depending on type)

How effective is the coil?

Both the IUD and IUS are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when correctly fitted and in place.

You can check that your coil is still in place by feeling for the two thin threads inside the vagina. Your clinician will explain how to do this.

The coil does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Barrier protection (such as condoms) is still needed for STI protection.

What happens at a coil fitting appointment?

  1. Consultation & assessment
    We’ll discuss your medical history, contraception needs, and check suitability.
  2. Examination
    An internal examination is carried out to assess the position and size of the uterus. STI testing may be recommended in some cases.
  3. Insertion
    The coil is gently passed through the cervix into the womb. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes.
  4. Aftercare advice
    You’ll receive clear guidance on what to expect and when to seek advice.

Pain & comfort:
Insertion can be uncomfortable for some people. We recommend taking simple pain relief beforehand. If you’re concerned, please discuss this with the clinician — additional pain relief options may be available.

Aftercare and recovery

 

Both the IUD and IUS are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy when correctly fitted and in place.

You can check that your c

It’s common to experience:

• Cramping similar to period pain
• Light bleeding or spotting

These usually settle within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help.

Seek medical advice urgently if you develop:

• Severe or worsening lower abdominal pain

• Fever or flu-like symptoms

• Offensive vaginal discharge

• Heavy or unusual bleeding

Is the coil suitable for me?

Most women can safely have a coil fitted, including those who are breastfeeding.
Suitability is always assessed individually.

A coil may not be suitable if you:

• Might be pregnant
• Have an untreated pelvic infection or STI
• Have certain womb or cervical conditions
• Have unexplained bleeding between periods or after sex

Your clinician will guide you during consultation.

Possible side effects and risks

Copper coil (IUD)

  • Heavier or more painful periods (often improves after a few months)
  • Spotting between periods
  • Period-like cramping

Possible side effects and risks

Hormonal coil (IUS)

  • Irregular bleeding initially
  • Acne or breast tenderness
  • Mood changes
  • Ovarian cysts (uncommon)

Possible side effects and risks

Rare risks (both types)

  • Pelvic infection
  • Perforation of the womb during insertion
  • Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy if pregnancy occurs

These risks are uncommon and will be discussed before fitting.

Does the coil affect weight or periods?

Weight:
There is no evidence that the copper coil causes weight gain. Weight changes over time are common regardless of contraception.

Periods:

  • The copper coil may make periods heavier or more painful
  • The hormonal coil often makes periods lighter and may stop them altogether

Coil removal and replacement

We now offer coil removal appointments at the practice.

  • Removal is usually quick and straightforward
  • Fertility returns rapidly after removal
  • Pregnancy risk resumes immediately

If you do not wish to become pregnant, additional contraception (e.g. condoms) is recommended for 7 days before removal.

You may:

  • Have a new coil fitted at the same appointment
  • Switch to another method
  • Plan for pregnancy

Alternatives to the coil

If the coil isn’t right for you, we can discuss alternatives, including:

  • Combined oral contraceptive pill
  • Progestogen-only pill
  • Patch or vaginal ring
  • Contraceptive implant
  • Contraceptive injection

All options are discussed based on your medical history and preferences.

Book a coil appointment

If you’re considering coil fitting, replacement or removal, our private GP team can guide you through your options and support you safely.

Important

  • This page provides general information and does not replace a personalised medical consultation.
  • Coil fitting and removal are offered only following clinical assessment and suitability checks.
  • No contraception method is guaranteed to be suitable for every individual.
  • If you experience severe pain, fever, abnormal bleeding, or suspect pregnancy, seek urgent medical advice.