The choices Intrauterine device (IUD)

Intrauterine device (IUD)

The IUD can also be used as emergency contraception. An alternative type of emergency contraception is the emergency contraceptive pill and more information can be found here.

What is it?

An IUD (formerly known as the Coil) is a small device (about the size of a matchstick) made from plastic and copper that is inserted into the womb by a specially trained doctor or nurse. It is a long acting method which protects against pregnancy for five to 10 years, depending on the type.

How does it work?

The IUD works by:

• Killing the sperm (the copper is toxic to sperm)
• Stopping sperm from reaching a released egg
• Making it more difficult for the egg to settle in the womb

How effective is it?

There are different types of IUD. Newer IUDs contain more copper and are the most effective – more than 99%.

What are the benefits?

• You do not have to remember to take a pill every day
• You are protected against pregnancy for five to 10 years
• It works as soon as you put it in
• Does not interrupt sex
• Can be used as emergency contraception up to five days after unprotected sex at any time in the menstrual cycle provided this is the only unprotected sex that has occurred since the last period
• Can be used while breastfeeding
• Can be removed at any time if you decide to become pregnant

Who may not be able to / may not want to use it?

Women who:

• Have unexplained bleeding from the vagina
• Have an untreated sexually transmitted infection or pelvic infection
• Have had problems with their womb or cervix

Possible side-effects?

Not all women will experience side-effects

• Heavier and longer periods
• Risk of infection after fitting in the first 20 days
• More painful periods for some women
• Risk of ectopic pregnancy (baby develops outside the womb)
• There is a risk that the IUD might go through (perforate) your womb or cervix when it is put in, this is rare when inserted by an experienced HCP. This may cause pain, but often there are no symptoms. If this happens the IUD will have to be removed by surgery

What if:

I use the IUD as emergency contraception?

The emergency IUD is highly effective. However, if it does fail resulting in pregnancy, there is a risk that the IUD can cause a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy may occur. If you know that you are pregnant or think you might be, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible.

An appointment should be made with a health professional approximately three to four weeks after the IUD has been fitted. This is to:

• Check that you are not pregnant
• Discuss any problems experienced with the IUD
• Remove the IUD if this is what you want (this must be done by a trained health professional)

I want to remove it?

As soon as the IUD is fitted it will protect against pregnancy and provide ongoing contraception until it is removed. However, if the IUD is not required as a regular method of contraception, it can be removed as soon as you are sure you are not pregnant (usually following your next period). A health professional will remove the IUD.

This method does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections, so you may need to use a condom as well.

Remember: Contact your doctor or nurse if you have any concerns or are worried / unsure about anything to do with your contraception.