Intrauterine Device (IUD) method

What is an IUD?¹

An IUD (formerly known as the Coil) is a small device (not much longer than a matchstick) made from plastic and copper that is inserted into the womb by a specially trained health professional. It works by stopping sperm from reaching a released egg. It also makes it more difficult for the egg to travel along the fallopian tubes and settle in the womb.

It can be fitted 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. If you have had unprotected sex more than once since the last period then an IUD can be fitted up to five days after the earliest time you could have released an ovum. The IUD can prevent up to 99% of pregnancies expected to occur if no contraception has been used.

Fitting an IUD can take up to 20 minutes. It can be uncomfortable or slightly painful for some women, and it may be necessary to have pain relief beforehand or ask for a local anaesthetic. Some women might experience a period-type pain or light bleeding for a few days after the IUD is fitted.

Where can I get an IUD?²

The IUD is available free from general practices and family planning clinics/sexual health clinics. Health professionals need to be trained to insert an IUD, so it is important to check that a trained health professional is available.

Is an IUD suitable for all women?²

An IUD may be suitable if it is over 72 hours since you had unprotected sex and too late for the emergency pill.

If you are thinking about having an IUD fitted, you will be asked about your sexual habits and whether you have had a test for STIs (sexually transmitted infections). If you are diagnosed with a current Chlamydia infection the health professional will prescribe antibiotics.

Are there any advantages to using an IUD for emergency contraception?²

• Highly effective
• Can be left inserted for ongoing long-term contraception

Are there any disadvantages to using an IUD for emergency contraception?¹

• It is not as easily available as the emergency contraceptive pill
• Not all women can use the IUD (see above)
• There is a small chance of getting an infection in the womb, within the first 20 days of inserting the IUD
• It is possible for an IUD to perforate the womb or cervix when it is fitted, causing pain or mild discomfort. However, often there are no symptoms (perforation is rare when the IUD is inserted by an experienced health professional)
• The IUD can move out of your womb

Do I need a check-up with my health professional once the IUD is fitted?¹

An appointment should be made with a health professional approximately 3 to 4 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)
• Discuss future contraception choice, if required

Are there any side effects when using an IUD?¹

There may be some side effects when using an IUD including:

• 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)
• The IUD can move out of your womb
• There is a small chance of getting an infection in womb, within the first 20 days of inserting the IUD

It may penetrate the wall of the womb or cervix (‘perforation’), especially during insertion, this is rare when inserted by an experienced health professional.

However, if you experience any of the following symptoms it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible – do not wait. These could be signs of an ectopic pregnancy or a serious infection:

• A sudden or unusual pain in the lower abdomen
• A shorter, lighter or delayed period
• An unusual or smelly discharge from the vagina
• A high temperature

How will the IUD affect my next period?¹

Your next period should come at about the same time as you would normally expect it. If you have not had a normal period within 3 weeks of having the IUD fitted, it is recommended you visit your health professional and take a pregnancy test.

Can the IUD fail?¹

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.

When can I have the IUD removed?¹

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.

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

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

1. FPA. Sex/sexual health – emergency contraception – emergency contraceptive pill

2. NHS direct. Health encyclopedia – emergency contraception