This is a Patient information leaflet page, to be read prior to a coil fitting or coil replacement.
Alternatively you can download the leaflet using the link or button below
Non-urgent advice: Coil fitting or Coil replacement
We understand you would like to book an appointment for the fitting or replacement of the coil (IUD/IUS).
We’re keen to make your clinic visit as straightforward and streamlined as possible so it is important that you read all the information supplied before booking.
We’re keen to make your clinic visit as straightforward and streamlined as possible so it is important that you read all the information supplied before booking.
To read before booking an appointment
- Watch this informative video about the coil
- Read this information on the hormonal coil (IUS, eg Mirena, Kyleena). This can be used for contraception, the management of heavy and or painful periods, and/or the progesterone part of HRT.
- Read this information on the copper coil (non-hormonal coil). This is used for contraception only.
1. Tests prior to making an appointment
- As per the information above, coils do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea. People can have STIs without any symptoms. Untreated STIs at the time of coil fitting can cause pelvic infection.
- We strongly advise getting a chlamydia and gonorrhoea test for any coil procedure for all people under the age of 26, or for anyone who’s had a new sexual partner in the past year.
- The test is a cotton bud vaginal swab you can take yourself. Anyone can ask for a test via reception.
2. Information about the fitting itself – Timing of Coil Fit
Timing of Coil Fit
- It is vitally important to ensure there is no chance of pregnancy on the day of the coil fitting.
- Please continue regular, effective contraception up until your appointment and make a note of the date of your last period.
- If you are using condoms alone, it may be best to try to abstain in the 3 weeks prior to your coil appointment. If you have a burst condom and take emergency contraception in the 3 weeks before your appointment, we will not be able to fit the coil.
- You can have a coil inserted from four weeks after the birth.
- After having a baby you should start using reliable contraception 21 days after giving birth, or discuss with a nurse/GP. Information about choices can be found on the Patient info website.
3. Coil Replacement
- If you already have a coil in place, please either avoid sex completely or use a condom carefully in the 7 days before you attend. Very occasionally we are unable to fit the replacement coil after removing the expired one, and in this case there is a chance you could fall pregnant from any unprotected sex in the 7 days leading up to that point.
- If you are attending for a replacement coil and your coil change is overdue, you are advised to use an alternative form of contraception. In some cases a negative pregnancy test, after at least 3 weeks of contraception/abstinence may be required before the coil can be changed.
4. Before the Fitting
- Please take some over the counter painkillers an hour before the procedure, as some people experience discomfort, like period cramps, during coil insertions.
- Some people can feel a little faint during and after the fitting. It is therefore advisable to have someone with you or someone you can contact by telephone in case you feel unwell. If possible, ask a friend to accompany you to drive you home
- Remember, you can change your mind about having a coil fitted at any time
5. The Fitting Process
- Please allow at least 30mins for the appointment, though the procedure itself takes less than 10 minutes.
- The doctor/nurse will ask questions to check the coil is suitable for you. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions, before giving your consent to proceed with the fitting. If at any stage you change your mind about the fitting, the procedure can be stopped.
- The process of fitting a coil is similar to what happens with a smear test. A vaginal examination will be undertaken and then the coil fitted. You may feel some discomfort, but this varies from person to person. The doctor and nurse will do their best to reassure you and make the procedure as pleasant as it can be.
- You will be given advice after fitting about what to expect and when to come back.
- Please ensure you have no major commitments afterwards as you may need to take it easy and relax for the rest of the day.