Are Coils (IUD or IUS) The Right Contraception For You?
The contraceptive coil is a highly effective, long-acting and reversible method of contraception that suits many women, including those who want a low-maintenance option. There are two main types: the hormonal coil (IUS), which releases progesterone to prevent pregnancy and can also help with heavy or painful periods, and the non-hormonal copper coil (IUD), which contains no hormones and provides long-term contraception for up to 10 years.
Whether a coil is right for you depends on factors such as your medical history, menstrual symptoms, hormone tolerance, and future pregnancy plans. At London Gynaecology, our specialists assess suitability carefully and offer expert advice on benefits, potential side effects, and the insertion process, ensuring you can make an informed decision with confidence.
Which Contraceptive Option Is Right For You?
Choosing the right contraception is an important part of managing your reproductive health. At London Gynaecology, we offer a full range of contraceptive options, including hormonal and non-hormonal coils (IUD and IUS), and provide personalised, evidence-based advice to help you choose the method that best fits your lifestyle, health needs, and future plans.
The best contraceptive method for you depends on your individual health, lifestyle, and future plans. We take the time to understand your medical history, menstrual patterns, preferences, and whether or not you're planning a pregnancy in the near future and discuss the most appropriate options. Your consultant will guide you through the benefits and potential side effects of each method, helping you make an informed decision that feels right for you.
We offer both the hormonal coil (IUS), such as Mirena or Kyleena, and the non-hormonal copper coil (IUD). These are long-acting, reversible forms of contraception that are over 99% effective and can last between 5 and 10 years, depending on the type.
The hormonal coil releases a small amount of progestogen, which can lighten or stop periods and reduce cramps. The copper coil does not contain hormones and works by affecting sperm movement and egg fertilisation. It may make periods slightly heavier or more crampy.
How soon does the coil start working?
The copper coil is effective immediately. The hormonal coil is effective straight away if fitted during the first 7 days of your cycle; otherwise, you may need to use additional contraception for 7 days.
A coil is fitted during a simple outpatient procedure that usually takes around 10–15 minutes. Some women experience mild cramping during or shortly after the procedure, but discomfort is usually short-lived. We take time to explain each step and offer pain relief if needed.
In addition to coils, we offer advice and prescriptions for the contraceptive pill, patch, implant, injection, and vaginal ring. We also offer contraceptive implant.
Yes. The hormonal coil (such as Mirena) is often used as a treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding and can significantly reduce bleeding over time — in some cases stopping periods altogether.
Book your contraceptive appointment online
Book an appointment with a consultant gynaecologist to discuss your contraceptive options.
Contraceptive Packages
We offer various packages for the insertion or removal of contraceptive devices.
Coil Fitting
A simple solution to contraception, our package includes consultation, advice and fitting of the appropriate coil.
Coil Removal
Women with a coil need to have it removed every 5-10 years depending on the type of coil fitted.
Contraceptive Implant Insertion
This package includes a consultation and expert insertion of the contraceptive implant, with clear guidance on what to expect.
Contraceptive Implant Removal
Our implant removal service offers a consultation and removal by an experienced clinician, with time to discuss next steps if needed.
Please note: Any additional scans, tests and procedures not stated in the package will incur an additional charge. Please speak to our team about costs.
Our coil & contraceptive service
GP Referrals
GP referral letters are not needed unless you are claiming your visit on insurance and your insurer requires one. However, GP referral letters are helpful because they provide your information and history so if you do have one please bring it with you to your appointment.
Insured Patients
For patients wishing to use insurane, please note that London Gynaecology's tariff with insurers does not include medical devices, therefore you will need to self pay for the device and reclaim from your insurer directly.
Follow Up and Aftercare
Following patient feedback, it is our policy to refer patients back to their GP for the 6 week coil check. If you wish to return to London Gynaecology for a follow up, please request a follow up consultation from your consultant, this will be charged as per our current fees.
Resources
To learn more please see our information leaflets.
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