Some information and advice for you after you have had a coil fitted.
You've been fitted with one of these two coils:
The Mirena coil – known as an intrauterine system (IUS)
The copper coil – known as an intrauterine device (IUD)
This is due to be changed by: .........../.........../...........
Make a note of this date as we will not recall you.
What should I expect?
You may experience cramps and some light bleeding for a few days after your coil fitting. Taking a painkiller such as paracetamol or ibuprofen should help. Any pain should subside over the next 24 hours.
Your periods
If you have a copper coil you may find you have light bleeding between periods in the first six months. Or your periods may get heavier, longer and be more painful.
If you have a Mirena coil you may experience irregular bleeding or spotting for the first six months. After this you may have either very light periods or no bleeding at all.
Some women using the Mirena coil experience side effects such as tender breasts, skin changes or headaches. These symptoms happen because the Mirena releases progesterone into the body. They should settle down over the next few months.
Sex
The coil should not interfere with sex. If you experience pain or discomfort, or if your partner can feel the threads during sex, come back to see us.
How soon am I protected against pregnancy?
If you have had the copper coil fitted you will be protected immediately.
If you had the Mirena coil fitted in the first seven days of your cycle (day one being the first day of your period) it will be effective immediately. If it is fitted at any other time in your cycle you will need to use extra contraception such as a condom or Femidom for the next seven days.
Can I use tampons?
We advise that you do not use tampons for a few weeks after your coil is fitted.
Feeling for the threads
Occasionally a coil is expelled, so make an appointment to see us in three to six weeks to check your coil is still in place.
Feel for the threads attached to your coil after each period to check it is still in the right place. The strings come through the opening of the cervix into the top of your vagina – if you have the Mirena coil there will be two threads and if you have the copper coil there will be either one or two. If you can’t feel them, use another method of contraception and come back so we can check your coil is in the right place.
Infection
Occasionally people develop an infection after a coil fitting. If you have smelly vaginal discharge, abdominal pains, high temperature or pain during sex, come back so we can check for infections. Alternatively see your GP or contact NHS Direct, which is open 24 hours a day every day, on 0845 4647.
Ectopic pregnancy
The coil is very effective but in rare circumstances a pregnancy can occur. If it does, it may be an ectopic pregnancy - where a fertilised egg develops in a fallopian tube. If you experience severe lower abdominal pain, with or without bleeding, seek medical advice.
Contact us
You can also contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or THT Direct on 0808 802 1221.
Earls Court Health and Wellbeing Centre: 020 7341 0300.
Terrence Higgins Trust Sexual Health and Contraception Service: 020 7341 0312 or 020 7341 0311.