Intrauterine Contraception
The terms used to describe the two different forms of Intrauterine Contraception (IUC) have recently changed.
A copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) is the term used for what is commonly referred to as a ‘copper coil’ or ‘non hormonal coil’
A hormonal intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) is now the term used for what was previously referred to as an Intrauterine system (IUS – Levosert, Mirena, Kyleena, Jaydess) and commonly known as a ‘hormonal coil’.
What is an Cu-IUD?
A Cu-IUD is a small T-shaped plastic and copper device that is inserted into your uterus by a specially trained health professional.
There are various types and sizes available. Depending on the type; a Cu-IUD can last from 3 to 10 years.
The Cu-IUD is a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) method. This means that once it’s in place you do not have to think about contraception every day or each time you have sex.
You can use an Cu-IUD whether or not you’ve had children.
How it works
The Cu-IUD works by preventing sperm from surviving in the cervix; uterus or fallopian tubes. It may also prevent a fertilised egg from implanting in the uterus.
***We are only able to fit a Cu-IUD for contraception including Cu-IUD for emergency contraception. If you require a Cu-IUD for other reasons please discuss this with your GP***
What is a LNG-IUD?
A LNG-IUD is a small T-shaped plastic device that contains progestogen. It is inserted into your uterus by a specially trained health professional.
The IUS is a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) method. Once it is in place, it works for 3-8 years so you do not have to think about contraception every day or each time you have sex.
You can use a LNG-IUD whether or not you have had children.
LNG-IUD types
There are four types of LNG-IUD in the UK.
If fitted when someone is under 45 years old
- Levosert – lasts for 6 years for contraception
- Mirena – lasts for 8 years for contraception
- Kyleena – lasts for 5 years for contraception
- Jaydess – lasts for 3 years for contraception
If fitted when someone is 45 years old or older
- Levosert – lasts until after the menopause or 55 years old
- Mirena – lasts until after the menopause or 55 years old
- Kyleena – lasts for 5 years for contraception
- Jaydess – lasts for 3 years for contraception
If you are using Levosert or Mirena as part of your HRT regimen it will last 5 years. We do not provide HRT services therefore you will need to discuss an early change with your GP.
More information can be found here FSRH Guideline (March 2023) Intrauterine contraception
How it works
The LNG-IUD releases a progestogen hormone into the uterus which thins the uterine lining so that it is less likely to accept a fertilised egg, thickens the mucus from your cervix so it’s difficult for sperm to move through and reach an egg and stops ovulation in some women.
***We are only able to fit an LNG-IUD for contraception. If you require a LNG-IUD for other reasons please discuss this with your GP***
LNG-IUD / Cu-IUD pre fit information
For information regarding an IUS/IUD fit please click here. It is important that you read this information before attending the clinic.
LNG-IUD / Cu-IUD removal
For information on the removal process please click here and read the information provided. It is important that you read this information before attending the clinic.