Intrauterine device (IUD) 

Introduction 

Types of contraception

Expert advice for teenage girls about what types of contraception are available and where they can find the right kind to suit them.

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Find out more about sex, relationships, contraception, STIs and pregnancy, online, by phone or in person.

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped contraceptive device made from plastic and copper that fits inside the womb (uterus). It used to be called a coil or a loop.

It's a long-lasting and reversible method of contraception but it is not a barrier method. This means that an IUD can prevent pregnancy but won't stop you getting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It's different to an intrauterine system (IUS) which releases the hormone progestogen into the body.

An IUD stops sperm from reaching the egg. It does this by releasing copper, which changes the make-up of the fluids in the womb and fallopian tubes. These changes prevent sperm from fertilising eggs. IUDs may also stop fertilised eggs from travelling along the fallopian tubes and implanting in the womb.

How do I get an IUD fitted?

There are different types and sizes of IUD to suit different women. IUDs need to be fitted by a trained doctor or nurse at your GP surgery, local family planning clinic or sexual health clinic. You may need to be tested for infection before the fitting or you may be given antibiotics, in case of infection, to take as it's fitted.

It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to insert an IUD. The vagina is held open, like it is during a cervical smear test, and the IUD is inserted through the cervix and into the womb.

Some women find having an IUD fitted uncomfortable and painful, so you may also be offered painkillers. Read more about having an IUD fitted.

An IUD can stay in the womb for five to 10 years depending on the type. If you're 40 or over when you have an IUD fitted, it can be left in until you reach the menopause or until you no longer need contraception.

Most women can have an IUD fitted, including women who have never been pregnant or who are HIV positive. An IUD is usually fitted during your menstrual period. From the moment the IUD is fitted until the time it is taken out, you are protected against pregnancy.

Read more information on when an IUD can be used.

Removing an IUD

An IUD can be removed at any time by a trained doctor or nurse.

If you're not going to have another IUD put in and you don't want to become pregnant, use another contraceptive method (such as condoms) for seven days before you have the IUD removed. This is to stop sperm getting into your body. Sperm can live for seven days in the body and could cause pregnancy once the IUD is removed.

As soon as an IUD is taken out, your normal fertility should return.

How effective is an IUD?

An IUD is 98–99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Newer models that contain more copper are the most effective (over 99% effective). This means that less than one in every 100 women who use the IUD will get pregnant in a year.

As a long-lasting method of contraception, the IUD is very effective. You don't need to remember to take or use contraception to prevent pregnancy. However, there are some disadvantages to an IUD, such as longer and more painful periods. And you'll still need to use other types of contraception to prevent STIs. Read more about the things to consider before getting an IUD.

In rare cases there may also be some complications after having an IUD fitted. This can include pelvic infections in the first 20 days after fitting, or the IUD moving out of place. Read more about the risks of having an IUD fitted.

Emergency contraception

The IUD can also be used as a method of emergency contraception up to five days after unprotected sex or up to five days after the earliest time you could have released an egg (ovulation). If you have unprotected sex, make an appointment with your GP or clinic as soon as possible.

Last reviewed: 25/10/2011

Next review due: 25/10/2013

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59 Comments

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Comments are personal views. Any information they give has not been checked and may not be accurate.

JoBristol said on 27 November 2011

I had read a lot of horror stories online before the fitting, and as a result I was very nervous about it
However I found the fitting no more uncomfortable then a smear test. I got the fitting done at a clinic & I opted for the local anaesthetic injection and felt no more than a twinge when the doctor measured my womb and when the devise was inserted. I felt a little dizzy after and lay down for ten minutes, and then that evening i experienced fairly bad cramping, but no worse then you get with a painful period and a hot water bottle and some chocolate sorted me out :)
I had a couple of days of spotting and cramping that came and went. Two days later i got my period, which was slightly heavier and painful then normal, but nothing unbearable.
I know everyone is different and for some it is more painful, but dont be put off by some of the stories online, as I worried about it for nothing. I am really happy with it and glad I no longer have to put hormones in my body.

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Jo GH said on 03 November 2011

I am 36 with two children and have used most forms of contraception. We are all looking for the perfect contraception and it doesn't exist. Having tried most types of pill I found hormones don't work, barrier methods are okay and the cap was great before the children.

I opted for the longer term protection of the coil but the Mierna was out because of the hormones. I had the TT380 slimline fitted Dec 2010 and on balance it is the best option.

It is painful to have inserted but having had two children a short lived, bearable pain made better by the use of a spray on anisthetic by the nurse. I had two excellent and experienced fitters and part of the pain is if you are not using relaxation techniques. So I suggest deep breaths, even aromatherapy, anything to lessen the discomfort and relax your body so they can insert it as easily as possible.

I bled for two weeks with heavy cramping and then the next three periods were very painful with cramping. One of these I had to have someone pick me up because I could not drive my car. Each period that went by (and yest they were heavier) it got easier or I have become more used to it.

The downside for me is at points between periods there is spotting or more what I would call blood tinged fluid that is certainly coming from the uterus. Sometimes it feels like the coil is irritating the lining of the womb at certain points in the cycle (but that could be my imagination). However, I said I would give it one year and if the benefits outweigh the costs I'll keep it in. They do, just about, even when I find the side effects irritating, they are short-lived (a fews hours to a day) and the alternative is hormones and those side effects go on and on.

So for now, I can recommend the copper coil in this less than ideal world of contracpetive methods we live in.

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Jo GH said on 03 November 2011

I am 36 with two children and have used most forms of contraception. We are all looking for the perfect contraception and it doesn't exist. Having tried most types of pill I found hormones don't work, barrier methods are okay and the cap was great before the children.

I opted for the longer term protection of the coil but the Mierna was out because of the hormones. I had the TT380 slimline fitted Dec 2010 and on balance it is the best option.

It is painful to have inserted but having had two children a short lived, bearable pain made better by the use of a spray on anisthetic by the nurse. I had two excellent and experienced fitters and part of the pain is if you are not using relaxation techniques. So I suggest deep breaths, even aromatherapy, anything to lessen the discomfort and relax your body so they can insert it as easily as possible.

I bled for two weeks with heavy cramping and then the next three periods were very painful with cramping. One of these I had to have someone pick me up because I could not drive my car. Each period that went by (and yest they were heavier) it got easier or I have become more used to it.

The downside for me is at points between periods there is spotting or more what I would call blood tinged fluid that is certainly coming from the uterus. Sometimes it feels like the coil is irritating the lining of the womb at certain points in the cycle (but that could be my imagination). However, I said I would give it one year and if the benefits outweigh the costs I'll keep it in. They do, just about, even when I find the side effects irritating, they are short-lived (a fews hours to a day) and the alternative is hormones and those side effects go on and on.

So for now, I can recommend the copper coil in this less than ideal world of contracpetive methods we live in.

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FairySweetness said on 31 October 2011

I had the coil (copper with no hormones) fitted in June 2011. Having Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, I decided I wanted to try without hormones. I have also had a bad experience with the implant in the past.

I was advised to take some Ibuprofen (400mg) and Paracetamol (1g) an hour before my appointment. The female doctor who I had my pre insertion check with also fitted the coil. Also in the room was a female practice nurse. I was 27 at the time and have never been pregnant.

Yes, I had pain on insertion, I expected that, and yes it was very uncomfortable. A few stabbing pains, and very bad stomach craps. I continued to have stomach cramps for the next 2 days, and to be honest it just felt like a bad period. A hot water bottle and some ibuprofen kept it under control. I also had some spotting, again I expected that.

A few days later I stopped the pill and had a very light bleed. Since then nothing. No pain, no bloating and no bleeding. It has now been 4 months since I had the coil fitted and I have been very please with it. Yes I am slightly concerned that I haven't had a period (remember I am not using a coil with hormones), but pregnancy tests have comeback negative.

All in all a good contraceptive. I just wonder if anyone else has not had periods on it.

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xbubblegumx said on 20 September 2011

I would like to share my experience as I think it helps to get different views. Ok. so roughly about 2 months ago I went to get a coil (copper) fitted. Unfortunately it hurt me so much that I had to tell her to stop- I even nearly cried! I had a lot of bleeding afterwards and I had bad cramps for a few days after too. They told me that as I haven't had any children and I'm only 21, it is best to fit the IUD just after my period as it is supposed to be less painful during that time. They reccommended I booked an appointment at another clinic as that certain doctor was leaving and she said the others did not have as much experience.

I had to wait quite a while to get it fitted again but now I am really glad I did!I got it done on the 8th september. I had the TT380 Slimline Copper Coil fitted by another doctor and it was miles less painful then the other fitting! It only hurt alot about 3 times compared to the other one which hurt too much! I think it''s best to pick somebody with alot of experience as they are used to it. The nurse was also lovely holding my hand when I needed her.

However, after the fitting the pain was unbearable. I had very very severe cramps for hours on end. I must of had about 2 hours sleep because of the pain and the pain stayed the same for about 3 days. I have also had cramps every day since I had it fitted but it is not as bad as before and it doesn't last as long. I have also been bleeding every day since too. I have my check up a month today so hopefully that will go well!

I would defently reccommend it as it lasts a long time (mines 10 years) and it beats putting hormones into your body which can make you put on weigh- just what the pill did to me! I just hope the pain goes away completely and the bleeding settles!

Also at the moment the only thing that gets rid of the pain for a long period of time is 500mg paracetemol which i got from boots for about 42p for 16!! A hot water bottle and a hot bath also heled :)

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suewk said on 13 September 2011

Strange my first comment didn't show up? I found the opinions here really useful when I was deciding on having a Mirena so wanted to feedback. Sadly it didn't work out for me but it was worth a try. The fitting was a bit painful and I was glad that I didn't have to work for the next few days.
They advise to keep taking pills for a few days - when I stopped the pain and bleeding both intensified. The pain was so bad that I went back to the clinic who checked it out. They didn't think that there was anything wrong but thought it wasn't right as my cervix was in spasm? The advised stronger painkillers (none touched the pain) and to keep checking the strings as it may be shifting.
At this stage I realised that I didn't know how to locate my cervix and despite a very patient nurse I couldn't at the time (and still can't). My biggest learning was to make sure you can locate your cervix before the IUS is fitted. It's not ideal when you're bleeding and in pain and your imagination is convincing you that the device has logded elsewhere.
I had all of the "classic" symptoms of heavy, painful and prolonged bleeding, sore boobs, back ache, dizziness, weird pins and needles, moodiness etc and my partner claims that I have been angry. I know that these could have gone with time but I can't keep taking time off work and am just fed up with feeling bad. The pain was pretty constant and very bad if I had a full bladder, after sex and first thing in the morning. I didn't sleep much because of pain so got tired and more "emotional"!
In summary I think it's good to try this rather than be put off by some of the horror stories but be prepared for pain and interference in your life and for a change when you stop taking the pill (if this applies). I'd also recommend finding your cervix in advance if you haven't all ready!
Good luck

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suewk said on 13 September 2011

I did mean to add that the Mirena did not affect my libido which I know it did with some people.

Had it removed - really painfree, worst part was the cold speculum! Feel instantly better as can no longer feel it and no stabbing pains even with a full bladder. shame it didn't work out as the hassle free aspect would be great.

I did have to get a bit stroppy with the nurse who said I should give it 6 months but I really can't.

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tess6 said on 07 September 2011

Hi, I just wanted to add my experience of the Gynaefix coil.This type of coil is a straight vertical one with no t shape. i heard it is the t shape that causes pain and discomfort. This coil also is hormone free.

I have had 10years of experience with this coil and it suited me perfectly. I am not the bravest of women when it comes to internal examinations and smears, or anything surgical, but i've found these things seem worse than they are. I found the installation of this type of coil painless, just a couple of seconds of discomfort and maybe a slight dizziness because of the thought of it. The only change to my cycle was that my periods slightly dribbled on with abit of spotting for a couple of days each month. I have never had painful periods with or without this coil. Every so often I would check to see if the coil was still there, as it is advised in case it is dislodged.

This coil can be kept for 5 years, then you need to change it for new one. I dreaded this, but the extraction and re-insertion again was surprisingly painless.

After another 5 years, my relationship finished and it was time also to get my coil removed, this again was painless.

This method of contraception suited me perfectly and I am looking into going to my old comfort zones with this method and getting another one, now that I have a new, steady partner.

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Sefila said on 04 September 2011

I just got it done 3 days ago, staff was brilliant and it wasnt bad at all, more or less the same as you get a smear test but getting coil inserted , all u feel is bit of period cramping. I took 2 painkillers 200mg an hour before my appointment and it really helped. Get something to eat proper before the treatment to avoid any dizziness and fainting and you will be fine :) I am still bleeding though and its the only bit im not enjoying as i hate the 7 day cycle and with the coil in, god knows how long am gone keep bleeding ..... btw i didnt get any after pains too .... may be its just luck , dont know,... but would recommend it

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krislaw said on 23 August 2011

I have used many different types of contraceptives over the years but have had different problems with them so I thought id try the coil even though I get painful periods. I read the comments on here and thought it would be simple as I've had a natural child birth and a loop so I thought can't be that bad! It was worse than getting an internal to change the position of my daughter! No anesthetic used trued to fit the 10 year but it was too big so inserted the 5 year one and after said my cervix wasn't very elastic as I have had a loop excision which she mentioned before performing the procedure!I think I may have just gone to the wrong doctor as she managed I'm not to sure how to cut my labia while cutting the strings and tgen said why did you cry out i said cause you hurt me! Well the less said about that doc the better! Ive been getting bad pains in the past month since getting it fitted I'm on day 12 of a period where no matter what medication I take(prescribed or over the counter) does not take the edge off the pains I've been getting. I also only have light periods well not anymore! If you suffer painful periods I recommend discussing with the doctor about getting it fitted and the potential increase of pain! After sex I get at least a day of cramping I'm going to try and perceiver with this but I can say I'm really not enjoying the contraction like pains that have me rocking in pain while trying to catch my breath give me dull aches any day!

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elle2233 said on 16 August 2011

After having bad experiences with the pill and hormonal contraception I decided to get a copper IUD. I mainly chose this because i felt like i had little option as I really didn't suit hormonal contraception but after having it fitted I can say that it was a good choice.
The actual process of having it fitted was simple and not as bad as I thought. I had read many of the stories on the internet and was expecting something much worse. The doctor talked me through what was going to happen and then asked a nurse to come in to hold my hand, make sure i was okay through the procedure. Although it was definitely uncomfortable and I found the actual insertion of the IUD quite painful, it was certainly not unbearable. The pain was similar to strong period pains and the whole insertion process lasted about 5mins.
The most painful part for me was afterwards as I did experience very strong cramps for a few days after. However now that everything has settled down i completely forget its even there. It is so good knowing you don't have to worry about it and there are no hormonal side effects. Everyone is different but it is definitely worth considering especially if you no longer want to take hormonal contraception.

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Jen11 said on 15 August 2011

Hi All
I feel the need to tell you how I have been getting on, as although it is good to hear that the coil has benefited some, for others such as myself it is proving that it might not be right for my body. I first wrote on here in January after having the coil fitted, and 8 months in I have just been back to my doctors about the pain I am suffering. Alot of people here seem to be happy with the coil and I wish I was, as the 'safe' sex is great however I want to write this so that other women can understand that the coil is not suited to everyone. For me nothing has settled down. If anything my pain has increased. Sometimes I bleed twice a month for 10 days a time and some months I can bleed just once for 10 days. There isnt a month that goes by where I am not experiencing pain both on and off my period and it has got to the point where some days I cannot stand up properly or speak until the cramp eases. I have been taking Mefanemic acid off my doctor which does help and also ibuprofen with lysine (although I do not mix these) but I really dont want to start relying on these which at the minute is what I am doing. At first I thought I was just a whimp to the pain but just as I got use to the cramps my pains intensified. With that and my random bleeds it is really getting me down. My doctor is sympathetic and told me that the coil does not work out for everyone however the decision lies with me as to what I want to do although my problem is I will struggle to use another form of contraception that is reliable as I cant take hormone related ones. Im envious of the women that are having no problems with their coil and I am going to try and persevere with it further although at the moment it is looking like I might have to just get it out to allow me a peaceful life!

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Deannewagstaff2005 said on 15 August 2011

My story

So far ive had the Copper 10 year IUD inserted on 22 July and its now 15 august. Since insertion ive had cramps everyday and have not stopped bleeding. This is my last and only option of contraception as i have bad side affects with all other hormone contraception.

I am hoping the period will settle as since its been in there its just got slightly heavier and heavier. I am a mum of two young boys and decided i didnt want anymore children. Ruining my sex life so far so i regret ever having this inserted.

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Rockabella said on 10 August 2011

Hi all. I'm after some advice from those who have/had the copper IUD and who have had their first period since it was inserted. I'm 27 and haven't had any children or pregnancies. I'd been on the pill for 10 years and came off it about 2 years ago (using condoms ever since). Like most of you I didn't want to take hormones anymore so I went through all the checks with my GP and had the coil fitted two weeks ago. I've always been regular and my first period came when it was due after I had the coil fitted. I really don't want to put anybody off but the cramps are absolute agony, the type where you lose strength, have to breathe through it and feel like something is really wrong! I've had the cramps for 5 solid days and I've been taking Ibuprofen solidly every few hours to cope. Unfortunately the painkillers which always used to work are barely taking the shine off it. The pains are even putting me off eating and lying down doesn't help. Except for the first evening after I had the IUD fitted I hadn't had any spotting at all, and I'd had some mild bit definitely tolerable cramps. The pain is so excruciating at the moment I'm contemplating having it removed all together. Has anybody else experienced this during the first period? At the moment I think the IUD is a great contraceptive because having sex is the last thing on my mind. I need this pain to stop as it's debilitating. Any comments or advice greatly appreciated! p.s. I forgot to mention that insertion was similarly painful as the doctor couldn't open my cervix. The procedure took 30 mins. thanks x

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hi danby said on 10 August 2011

Had an IDU fitted this morning and was quite worried about the procedure- I really dont do pain. I just worried for nothing, while feeling the procedure and being aware of what was happening at no point did i feel any pain. i was very surprised and wouldnt be worried if i had to go through this all again. I appreciate that it is painful for some, but just wanted to point out that it isnt painfull for all. My doctor talked me through everything that was happening as she did it. She did point out that my cervix was small and she didnt know if the IDU would go in that easily, but as i said i didnt feel a thing.

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koneko said on 10 August 2011

Part 2

I prided myself on the fact I neither cried, nor moved, not swore during the experience *beams*.
It was then pretty much over, the doctor trimmed the strings, before pulling out the speculum, and letting me rest for a bit.
I was quite dizzy, feeling a little sick and on the verge of blacking out, but I have a tendency to do this during painful or very stressful times, so I wasn’t too worried. I simply lay on the bed for about 20 minutes waiting for it to pass.
I then got up, it was a little bit sore, but nothing compared to previous period pains, which used to wake me in the night.
I think the most uncomfortable bit was when I got home, about 2 hours later, and I could not even sleep as it was quite so sore.
It calmed down considerably after 2 ibruprofens, but I avoided walking the dog too long as it’s still a little bit tender.
The positive side of it is though, is that its day 2, and I have not bled at all!
I shall hopefully update this, if I can, but ladies, for the benefits, it is definitely worth the pain and embarresment!

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koneko said on 10 August 2011

A log of the experience for all young people whom may consider The Mirena.

My doctor suggested this, as for all my time, 5 years, of periods, I have had severe cramps, anaemia, the pill did not suit me at all, and as I am going to college, I would quite like to be protected from pregnancy.
As I am only 16, and have never been sexually active, it was a little bit experimental for my doctor and me.
I walked into the surgery, and was a little bit nervous, but I am quite a calm person, so I wasn't too worried.
I think there were three parts where I became most nervous, one being when the receptionist announced I should go to treatment room 5, the second when I arrived in the room and the instruments where laid out, and then when the nurse said remember to breath in and out.
Then I was, shall we say, a bit freaked as it suddenly occurred to me they were expecting it to hurt.
So, first the doctor told me to lay on the bed thingy, and then prop my legs open, and cover myself with a little sheet.
She then proceeded to inspect my downstairs, which was and odd sensation, a little cold because of the gel, but okay.
Then, after finding this satisfactory, she continued to insert a medium speculum. This too was okay, cold, but only a little uncomfortable when she opened it up a little more. She found this one was too small, so she changed it to a bigger one. This hurt, only a little bit though.
And then, it came to time for some quite painful experiences.
I could not see what she was up to, but first I felt a quite painful twinge, by which point my legs where shaking an amount to be noticeable.
Then came a very painful point, shall we say a 9 on the scale, of which I was beginning to consider backing out. I think this was the sound, which was then followed by an 8 on the pain scale which I think was the IUD itself. I had opted for the Mirena, as my periods were so heavy, and the copper would only make them worse.

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user1996 said on 25 July 2011

i got the coil fitted 4 days ago, and i am experiencing some mild back pains, i heard that when you feel the wires, they will become longer after your first period.
i found the actual procedure rarther painfull, and there was no pain relief offered.
i found that the most painfull part of the whole thing is when the nurce messures your uterus. i have an apointment to get it checked in 3 weeks, however i might go earlier as it is causing some back and cramp like pain. i am not due a period for another 2 weeks and was wondering if i am feeling pain because i am nearly due on? personaly i would recomend this to anyone looking for long term contreception but is willing to undergo mild pain to reach that.

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mari11 said on 24 July 2011

I had the coil fitted yesterday and just wanted to share my experience after reading other peoples stories.
After reading that so many people found it extremely painful or very uncomfortable i was obviously quite nervous about the procedure and other peoples stories did slightly put me off the idea altogether. I'm 21 and have never given birth. However, the insertion was not half as bad as i had expected. It was fitted and done in literally less than 5 minutes and consisted of basically two small 'twinge like' cramps, the first when they measure the uterus and the second is the actual insertion. For me it wasn't 'painful' at all, (& I was given no pain relief) just uncomfortable for a few seconds. However every woman has different pain thresholds etc so i can only comment on my own experience. I can honestly say reading horror stories online really doesn't help at all. But after reading so many myself i was compelled to share my story just so people wont be put off by them.

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MrsHthe3rd said on 23 June 2011

I got my IUD fitted at the start of January 2011, I needed a more reliable form of contraception and after talking it through with my Doctor the IUD was the most sensible option for me.

While talking it through I was told that I may suffer some discomfort/pain because though I had twins the previous year they weren't delivered vaginally therefore my cervix wasn't used to any pressure being placed upon it.

Itdid hurt but it wasn't anything I couldn't handle, my tensing up certainly didn't help matters, the Doctor and Nurse had me giggling throughout and they helped put me at ease which I appreciated.

My periods before were very heavy and used to last for ages so the periods afterwards weren't any different, but now I've had it fitted for 6 months they're starting to settle and they aren't so heavy anymore. Cramps and other period problems have also lessened for which I'm happy and I have a reliable form of contraception that I don't have to worry about.

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aaamummy said on 01 June 2011

I had the copper coil fitted this morning, I was actually booked in to have the implant but the doctor explained it has a lot of risks and told me 20% of the ones she fitted were removed within 3 months due to bad side effects so I opted for this instead! The idea of no hormones sounds good to me. My doctor fits over 50 a year and has done for 25 years so I knew I was in the best hands.

It took around 10 mins for the appt and the fitting of the coil took only a minute. It was no more uncomforable than a smear test, she applied numbing gel before fitting the coil, I felt nothing just heard it ''click'' into place. Afterwards she advised me to lie down for 5 mins as some women feel faint after but I was fine, also I have only had a tiny bit of tummy ache, I have had 2 babies though and I am 25. I would say if you are worried about it being painful then don't as it really is not! Especially if you have had a natural birth.

Obviously I don't know how it affects periods yet as I am breastfeeding, I have had a very small bit of spotting which is normal, not having to worry about contraception for 5 years is such a relief, just wish I had done it sooner, my youngest is 9 months!! Fingers crossed my periods aren't horrendous. I would recommend getting this fitted, just make sure its a lady and someone who fits a lot of them to make sure it s a pain free fitting, as it should be.

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jb1234 said on 19 May 2011

I had the copper coil put in 4 weeks ago, just waiting for an appointment for it to be checked because im having a few similar crampish feelings similar to when it was put in, although reading other comments, i think it might be my period coming.
Im 20, never had children, was not told how painful the coil would be. I know a lot of women say it doesnt hurt, I just wish I was one of you! The doctor did say it tends to hurt more if you havent had a child since your cervix hasnt been stretched before and the way he talked about it sounded minor, I was planning a half hour walk home after it because i had taken painkillers before i left, half hour to kick in, then didnt get seen for another 40 mins. But I had to taxi back and when i got home I found lying exactly still was the only thing that would hurt a tiny bit less. I've never thought smears hurt before so perhaps some of us just get doctors with a bad technique but i recommend thinking about what you need to do in next couple of weeks after insertion as mine was thankfully in easter hols (im a student) so i didnt have to go anywhere or do anything and thank god it wasnt during my exam period!
Other than the insertion, its been brilliant and dare i say worth the pain, I had the implant in before which made my periods last weeks at a time and my mood swings were insane, since the coil, 2 blissful weeks of no period but most importantly I feel happier without the moods and much more like myself :)
I just think doctors should warn you that it could really hurt so that you can plan ahead a bit.

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Cdoyle87 said on 17 April 2011

I had the coil fitted a couple of months ago, and while it was unpleasant, it's all over in 10 mins and anyone on here who's had a bad experience it seems it was mostly due to a bad practicioner putting it in, so please dont be put off. I had a lovely nurse and female doctor (ask for female just to be sure, I did). She gave me some numbing gel first, then had to give me a womb injection due to it being painful, but then again I've not had kids so was to be expected. I did have some cramps for a couple of days, spotting for the first 2 days, then nothing! Have only had light periods and the occasional spotting. It's worth it for me as I didnt like the pill putting weight on me, and now I dont have to worry about it, it's in now.

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beckycharlieroo said on 05 April 2011

Hi, I'm new to this. Just thought I'd see if anyone was experiencing what I am. I had the copper coil fitted 6 months ago. And it was fine at first but now it's causing me pain. Especially after intercourse I'm left in pain for quite a few days. I made an appointment to have it taken out but I have to wait to "discuss" it with my doctor a week tomorrow first. Does this happen to anybody else?

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phoenix72 said on 10 March 2011

This evening I went to have a copper coil fitted and before I went I read the reviews, which were mainly all horror stories, so as you can imagine I was really nervous! I shouldn't have worried though because I can honestly say it was the most painless experience ever! The nurses and doctor were fantastic and made me feel at ease but even so I was still nervous whilst I was led on the bed! The whole procedure took less than 10 minutes and was no worse than a smear test. I was told that I might feel a slightly sharp period like pain when the coil is inserted - but I didnt, I was told I may feel slightly dizzy after - but I didnt, I was also told that I might feel slight cramping period pains after but I dont! So to those of you who, like me, read the bad reviews, just remember that every experience is different and try not to take the bad reviews as gospel - all they will do is make you more nervous! I am yet to experience a period obviously but I'm not worried, I would recommend this procedure to anyone with no hesitation.

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Jen11 said on 07 March 2011

Hi All
Well to keep everyone up to date I have now managed to go over 3 weeks without bleeding at all and have just had a 'normal' period which was great however I have been getting cramps on odd days in between, but nothing that I cant cope with. I am also pleased to say that although my period had me bleeding for 7 days it hasnt been heavy at all....which i'm not getting too excited about yet as I feel as though some unexpected bleeding is going to appear at some point! But overall I am glad that I have waited and am sure things will only get better!

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User535250 said on 06 March 2011

I had the copper IUD fitted this morning. Ive previously tried different pills but they all put weight on me, which is the last thing i want at 22! It seemed the perfect non-hormonal choice of contraception.

Anyway, i went to my family planning clinic this morning and spoke to the nurse about the IUD, she explained how it worked and the procedure in full detail and she was lovely so i felt very calm. After confirming i wanted it, she said i would get it fitted today (which i didnt expect!).

You obviously have to lay with your legs up for the procedure (you do feel like you lose all dignity but you get used to it after you've been in that situation a few times!)They first use a tool to open you up (the same used when getting a smear) which didnt hurt at all and then they measured the size of your womb. I cannot describe the sensation but it felt like a sharp period pain, but nothing you cant handle if your relaxed. When they insert the IUD it does feel a bit strange and you do get a slight sharp pain in your belly but again i breathed through it and it was over and done with.

However, once i stood up i felt faint and had to lay down. (the doctor said it rarely happens) Anyway, for around an hour afterwards i had what i can only describe excruiciating period pains, i have never felt anything like it! But i had painkillers, breathed through it and they slowly eased off. When i could finally get up to leave i made it home, got a hot water and layed down in bed.

I am now feeling perfectly fine apart from the odd little period cramp. If you are bad you just need to persevere and fight through it and it settles down. Its definitely worth it for 10 years of not having to worry! Hopefully i will be just as pleased and happy a few months/years down the line!

Would definitely recommend! It just seems i was unlucky in that my body didnt react well at first! But i now feel very satisfied, happy and glad i got it :)

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jojo07985 said on 04 March 2011

I wanted to share my experience of (attempting to) get the coil fitted to show the importance of having a local anaesthetic!

I am 22 and have never had children, and am useless at remembering to take the pill and also didn't like the idea of putting extra hormones in me every day. So I decided to opt for the coil. I was told it was painful, like bad period cramps, but I am used to these so I thought I would be ok.

However...I was offered no pain relief before the fitting and found it extremely painful immediately. The doctor changed her 'position' and it was slightly better, but then when she tried to push the thing through I screamed out in pain and couldn't keep still, the worst pain I've ever felt. After a couple of minutes she decided it was going to be too much for me to continue so they didn't fit it. I felt sick, and my blood pressure dropped to 80/40 (very low). My hr was irregular and they made me ly down. I became very hot and threw up several times. It took around 20 mins for my blood pressure to be ok again and I was very shaky. I bled quite a bit and was quite traumatised from the experience, and all for nothing! I couldn't drive myself home either.

I don't want my story to put you off, as I am actually going back to have it fitted with a local anaesthetic because I still think the (copper) coil is the best type of contraception, but I recommend that everyone should ask for pain relief incase they react like I do.

I had no idea the pain could be that bad and would have appreciated someone telling me that pain relief is essential beforehand!

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jojo07985 said on 04 March 2011

I wanted to share my experience of (attempting to) get the coil fitted to show the importance of having a local anaesthetic!

I am 22 and have never had children, and am useless at remembering to take the pill and also didn't like the idea of putting extra hormones in me every day. So I decided to opt for the coil. I was told it was painful, like bad period cramps, but I am used to these so I thought I would be ok.

However...I was offered no pain relief before the fitting and found it extremely painful immediately. The doctor changed her 'position' and it was slightly better, but then when she tried to push the thing through I screamed out in pain and couldn't keep still, the worst pain I've ever felt. After a couple of minutes she decided it was going to be too much for me to continue so they didn't fit it. I felt sick, and my blood pressure dropped to 80/40 (very low). My hr was irregular and they made me ly down. I became very hot and threw up several times. It took around 20 mins for my blood pressure to be ok again and I was very shaky. I bled quite a bit and was quite traumatised from the experience, and all for nothing! I couldn't drive myself home either.

I don't want my story to put you off, as I am actually going back to have it fitted with a local anaesthetic because I still think the (copper) coil is the best type of contraception, but I recommend that everyone should ask for pain relief incase they react like I do.

I had no idea the pain could be that bad and would have appreciated someone telling me that pain relief is essential beforehand!

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lou115 said on 28 February 2011

I had the coil fitted 7 months ago , i have not had any children and was fed up with side effects from pill. I have had calposcapys in the past and treatment to remove cin2 cells so i was not worried about pain. It was a little uncomfortable and i had a period straight away which was painful and heavy, i had painful periods 3 weeks apart for 6 months they have just started to settle down and i had no cramping on my last period . unfortunately it had to be removed as i had to have more cells removed. However when i am healed i will have the coil fitted again.
If you are not used to being poked around up there it will hurt, but you must relax and not think about it. if you are tense it will hurt more. good luck and the periods will get better. If you do need it removed it does not hurt and takes a couple of seconds

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JessicaHayley said on 25 February 2011

Hey Jen11

I wanted to let you know how I my experience had been in relation to periods settling down and cramps etc.
I think it probably took nearly 6months before i went a whole 3 weeks between 1 period and another without some sort of spotting but once i got to that stage i havent spotted between periods since and up until that point it had been very light spotting that was just irritating rather than painful.
My actual periods have only increased in length by about 1 day but now i get about a 3-4 day warning where I seem to have my bad period cramps before my period actually arrives. These cramps are worse than anything i then experience while on my period.
I have had other side effects as well such as acne, weight gain etc but it is still the best contraception ive tried by a mile. The others made me moody and i might as well of been a nun as i didnt want anyone touching me. This has not impeeded on the act of sex or affected my general mood, i suppose it would be fair to say it has affected my appearance rather than my personality.
I hope this is helpful, i would be tempted to say to anyone who was going for it, give it 6 months if your not prepared to wait that long then your probably not going to find any contraception other than condoms that will settle down quickly enough for you. After 6months you should be able to turn round and say its the best thing youve ever done!

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lillyloveslillies said on 23 February 2011

After reading most of the comments on this page, I thought it would be useful to add my experience with an IUD, as mine seems to have been a rather pleasant one.

I had my IUD fitted in when I was 19 (4 years ago) and yes, the pain while it was being fitted was rather traumatic (and no one had warned me of it),I almost fainted after the procedure was finished and I had a bit of spotting for a few days after the insertion... but everything after that has been completely comfortable.

I got the IUD because my long term boyfriend at the time and I wanted to be more intimate, but he is long gone and I have still kept my IUD. I prefer not to mention it to anyone as I like to feel as if its my extra added layer of protection, and sometimes guys seem to think that an IUD is enough of a reason not to use condoms (and obviously this isn't true, as you can still get STDs) so I just don't mention that I have it, and it gives me peace of mind every month when I know my period is due.

In the first year it did cause my periods to be slightly more painful, but taking one extra painkiller a day (Ibuprofen was my choice as it helps with the swelling) sorted me right out, and...touch wood... everything has been fine since then.

If the IUD is fitted right, no one should be able to feel that you have it in there. I think its definitely worth the small hassle it causes to begin with.

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sallyr6 said on 07 February 2011

hi ladies, Im 22 and had a coil fitted around 4 weeks ago, i have previously had a c-section when i was 19, and a termination 2 months ago, i went for the coil as its hormone free.

i went to my local family planning clinic after making an appointment, i was not advised to have any painkillers before hand, and found the whole procedure fine, although a little uncomfortable, and i really mean a little, uncomfortable, it was over before i knew it. I was very anxious after reading some of the comments on here, and true we all have different pain thresholds, i would not let other people comments put you off. after it was fitted i drove home on my own, and slept fine, with a normal not painful period.

I didnt have to take nay painkillers at all, and i have never had a vaginal birth, i just hope other peoples comments dont put anyone off, it was no worse then a smear!! good luck i love my coil! long term contraception with no hormones! whats not to love!

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Salsaaa said on 07 February 2011

I thought I'd add my own experience of this, as I've read so many negative ones I got to the point where I thought I couldn't possibly have an IUD fitted purely because of how painful the fitting sounded.

I originally went to my GP to book a fitting, and spoke with my doctor about the copper coil. While he was happy to help, I really feel in hindsight that the GP, for me, would not have been the best place to have this done; they didn't do fittings frequently so it's not something they'd have a lot of experience with and when I asked him about the possibility of a local anaesthetic he looked puzzled as if to say "Why would that be necessary?". It turned out they couldn't fit in an appointment for another month anyway so I ended up going to a family planning clinic instead.

I should point out here, I am 22 years old, never given birth and I am a serious wimp when it comes to pain. I was really, really worried about this. However, when I went to the initial consultation at the FPC the nurse put me at easy straight away; she explained the procedure fully and when I told her how worried I was about the pain she offered me Mefenamic Acid (a painkiller that works specifically on the uterus, I believe) to take before the procedure. At the actual fitting, I would say the worst part was the "sounding". The doctor used a local anaesthetic gel first, but it was still painful (though I'd built it up in my head to be much, much worse so actually it was nowhere near as bad as I'd expected). I'd say it was like a "pinching" pain, not nice but definitely bearable (and remember I'm a wimp!). It lasts a couple of seconds and that's it really. The actual insertion of the IUD wasn't really painful, I just felt some crampy pain. Afterwards, and for the following day I had quite bad period-style cramps but I still was able to go to work and didn't take any painkillers. I recommend heat-pads rather than a hot water bottle as they last longer :)

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Jen11 said on 04 February 2011

I am so glad to have finally found a site that has recent comments about this issue. I had the copper coil fitted 6 weeks ago now and so far I'm unsure of how I actually feel about it. The pros....my sex life is now amazing as we have dramatically reduced the risk of falling pregnant so we dont worry about it anymore! The cons......the pain of getting it fitted was the worst I have ever experienced (I havent had kids, my pain threshold isnt too bad and I wasnt offered any pain relief) however this aside I got over it (totally recommend feminax or boots own brand as this numbs cramps within 20mins of taking it)......the next, not so bad thing, was that I spotted a few days after fitting, which was fine not a problem.....then I had a period for 7 days, a week earlier than normal, bad cramps and the bleeding was so heavy I was using super plus tampons (i use to be light and on for 4-5days)....Got over that to find 2 weeks later I had another period, with cramps, which has lasted for a full 10 days, so heavy that i was using super plus extra tampons that needed changing every 2 hours and I now think im anaemic as there was so much blood lost. I have been for a six week check and the nurse isnt concerned that i have bled twice in one month and she said my coil is still in place and that I should just ride it out.
So I have decided to give it until April to see if this gets any better as I cant handle the amount of bleeding. I find it interesting to read other peoples reviews however no-one really seems to comment on the bleeding for the first 4 or 5 months after the fitting which is what I would like to know more about. To those thinking about getting the coil (once I find out more about the bleeding) I would then say-the fitting of the coil is painful but can be made more bearable with anesthetic gels etc which i was not offered,but the tablets I have been using have been great at controlling the cramps so if this bleeding gets better then I would say it was worth it!

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nimoloth said on 24 January 2011

I had one fitted that would last 10 years (copper only I think, although I can't remember) and the fitting was very unpleasant - I had no pain killers beforehand, although they gave me some after. It made me feel very sick for a little while, so they gave me some sweet tea and a biscuit because I admitted I hadn't had any breakfast yet! Anyhow, they said it can be unpleasant or painful for some people and since it turned out I was one of those people (particularly since I haven't had children yet), I should take a painkiller beforehand, and they would use local anaesthetic next time.

As it turned out, the coil they fitted caused me intermittent pain for about a year, from a dull ache to pains that had me convinced it had perforated my uterus! I had it checked out a few times, and one time it was decided that there was an infection so I got antibiotics. In the end, it kept doing it, so they recommended I get a smaller one. Having the old one out was actually fine - getting them out is nothing like getting them in! They come out easily with no pain. They then put in a 5 year Mini coil, copper only, and they used an anaesthetic, and it all went fine. No particular pain, just a little discomfort and spotting. I still get a bit more in the way of period pains than I used to, but nothing serious. I'm very happy with the one I have now.

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sallyr6 said on 12 January 2011

i have just this evening had a coil fitted, im 22 and have had a c-desction in the past, i went to the appointement a little unnearved after reading some of the comments on here.
But the whole thing was over with in less than fifteen minutes, staff were lovely, the procedure wasnt even that uncomfortable, and i drove the 20 min drive home perfectly fine, i was advised to take painkiller which i have, and havent even felt a twinge yet! i hope it stays that way, i wouldnt be put off having a coil fitted after reading some of these comments, it REALLY isnt that bad, and it was so worth the small bit of uncomfortableness!

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minky11 said on 12 January 2011

I agree with Jets 123 that the pain following the fitting of an IUD should not be under-estimated. After issues with the injection and the pill I decided to try the coil, so after discussing it with my GP I had it fitted yesterday.
As I do not have children my GP advised that it can be painful (as before giving birth the cervix is very tight) so I visited a clinic where they fit IUDs daily.
They were great and used anestheic gel, plus I had taken pain killers beforehand. The fitting was uncomfortable for around 2 mins, but no worse than that.
As I left the clinic I was feeling pleased with myself for my seemingly high pain threshold and for staying relaxed during the appointment.
However 20 minutes later I was in severe pain and thought I was going to have to pull over whilst driving home. For 3 hours I was in agony with the worst cramping I have ever experienced - around 5 x stronger than my usual period pains. I didn't know what to do with myself and tried pain killers, hot baths, hot water bottles - nothing helped!
Fortunately this eased after 3 hours and I have been fine since, just the odd cramp or dull ache.
If I had realised how painful it was going to be I would have made better plans about getting home and would have booked time off work.
I don't regret having the coil fitted and I hope that it will work out well for me. I would just warn you that it can be very painful afterwards, especially if you have not had babies.

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Jets123 said on 10 January 2011

I had copper coil fitted 4 days ago and wanted to share my experience. I found this site after fitting as i was in so much pain i was looking into side effects! OK - i dont get pms but two days after fitting i felt like someone had kicked me several times in the stomach. The fitting was painful despite having a reassuring dr but quick process. I didnt feel too bad afterwards it was later. I had tried to discuss pain relief before but like many others feel that the medical profession perception is highly coloured by an attitude of its not that bad . Well it was that bad . Dont patronise me. However, i really wanted to post to say that on day four i really dont have any pain and bleeding stopped. I am trying to be optimistic that i now have 10 yrs of trouble free contraception ahead of me! My advice to anyone fitting is to take parecetomol before going to ask for pain relief. To make sure time booked off work for at least 24 hours . I was at work trying to look professional when i felt like passing out . I work with lots of men and didnt want to share this with them! i am quite angry that this general advice is not offered . I am feeding back to my drs surgery as i do feel that both pre and post coil fitti.g advice could be hugely improved on. Because some women have no problems does not mean that we all will be the same . Assume tbe worse and we wont think we are dying when we experience the side effects i had!

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WelshWoman said on 04 January 2011

I want it out!!!
I had the copper coil fitted 4 weeks ago as the implant gave me varicose veins, depression, migraines and weight gain and I got pregnant on the pill! I also tried patches but didn't like them. I wanted something hormone free so my family planning clinic recommended the coil.
The fitting was horrible, the doctor and nurse were lovely but the pain was AWFUL, I've had 2 children so i'm no stranger to pain, but it made me cry.
the pain only lasted a few days.
I had no bleeding for the first week, then bled for 2 weeks non stop, I've finally stopped bleeding but I get pain after sex which lasts the whole of the next day!!! and my partner said he can feel a scratch on his penis during sex. It's put me off sex mentally as i know theres something up there and it seems strange!! I want it out but i'm too scared of going through that pain again and having tried other contraception I now have no idea what to try next!! :o(

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Christa6 said on 19 December 2010

I was really struck, reading these comments, that one woman's GP was concerned enough to mention the "little scratch effect" the strings of the coil can have on a man's penis - when so many women here are going through this procedure without proper pain relief. What's a little scratch after all :-) I do feel there are double standards when it comes to women's pain. Perhaps there is a double standard when it comes to contraceptives in general as I think from chatting to friends it is much more common for the Pill to affect a woman's libido than we're ever told in the leaflet or the surgery. There's an update on this website about the attempt to develop a male pill: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/male-contraceptive-pill/pages/introduction.aspx Of course the main concern in the trials at the moment is to avoid anything that might lower sexual desire!

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josquirrel said on 12 December 2010

Hi had the copper coil fitted about 2 months ago (I am 25) as am rubbish and remembering the pill and didn't want another hormone changing contraceptive.....it was pretty painful when being fitted and i got 2 days of quite bad stomach cramps- i rarely get period pain! i have bled every day since having it fitted, after 3 weeks of bleeding from the fitting of it I had the HEAVIEST period I have ever had in my life which lasted for nearly 2 weeks, now I am back to spotting again which luckily doesn't get in the way of my sex life but sometimes I have been caught out by the amount of blood that has spotted after sex (usually the next day). I am getting it out and getting the impant instead..which is the one thing i always said I didn't want but for me personally it will be better than this contraption!

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minihook said on 23 November 2010

I had the copper IUD fitted about 8 weeks ago and I was pretty scared before my appointment having read a million and one scare stories. I actually had gone 2 times before this appointment to have it fitted but each time the doctor wasnt able to fit it due to a tight cervix (having had no children) and they said they weren't going to try and ram it in (thank goodness). So I went to a clinic where they could give me an anaesthetic beforehand but in the end I didnt need it as the doctor was so skilled at what he did! The procedure didnt hurt at all...just a tiny bit of uncomfortableness. The most painful thing was the fact they made me do it on a full bladder as its easier to insert! The cramping afterwards was nothing a paracetamol couldnt fix and there wasnt really any spotting. It felt weird at first...a bit like I had a tampon in but I think this might have been more my imagination. My next period wasnt heavier or more painful than normal but it was longer. I cant feel it at all anymore and the string is still in place. I cant recommend the coil enough. The freedom it gives you is amazing and all without the use of hormones!

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chirpyandcheerful said on 02 November 2010

Wow, so glad i visited this site. All of your comments have made me feel very normal. I changed from the implant to the IUD today. yes, I experienced some period like pain (not having had children apparently determines the severity of this pain) during and for the past 6 hrs but it is easing. It hurt to sit up too but I took the day off work as I suspected this might happen. Paracetamol help though..oh and a really warm bath or two. I also had a very caring, intelligent doctor insert the IUD and allow me to rest on the bed afterward. I would say that yes it is nerve wracking but worth it, if like me you had serious issues (ie weight gain, severe breast tenderness and an increase in size by a whole cup plus severe mood swings leading to mild anxiety, nervousness and depression) on the implant. I am looking forward to being hormone free and feeling in control of my body again. Best of luck!

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dubiedoo said on 25 October 2010

I decided to go for the copper coil after having a baby a few months ago and wanted a change to the pill. I decided to do some research and after reading some comments on here I was tempted not to go to the appointment for what I was potentially letting myself in for. When I arrived at the clinic I was full of nerves and dreading it. What a waste of energy that was. The doctor was lovely and expalined every step at each point wat she was doing so I didn't panic. I felt no pain whatsoever throughout apart from one sharp twinge which finished before I finised saying ooh. The doctor told me she was now going to insert the coil and a minute later said she was finished. I immediately said "is that it?". I expected it to all be traumtic or painful from the comments on this site but I can honestly say that I felt nothing and my first smear that I had 10 days before the coil was fitted was worse. I had cramps for the rest of the day but nothing to moan about, I was out and about an hour later.

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chikaboo1 said on 17 October 2010

I had the copper coil fitted two days ago. I was quite nervous after reading some of the comments on this page but I went for it anyway because I have never used contraceptives with hormones and I wanted to keep it that way. The procedure was not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. In fact I wouldn't even say the procedure itself is painful, its just uncomfortable. I was definitely not crying out in pain, I just needed a hand to squeeze. It does hurt a bit when they insert the instrument to measure your uterus or whatever and when theyre inserting the coil itself but the pain is just like bad period cramps. In all the procedure only lasted 10-15 minutes and the doctor was very gentle and nice. They offered me an anaesthetic gel (or injection) which i took. After the procedure I lay down for about 15-20 minutes. I felt a bit nauseous for the rest of the day and the cramps were pretty bad; I would say that's the worst part. I had the procedure at about 4:30pm and by the next day I was fine. I have had hardly any cramps since. I get a bit of pain sometimes but very rarely and its not much. Oh and I took paracetamol before I went for the procedure and I had some after, that must have helped.

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kamm91 said on 07 October 2010

After reading these comments, I was nearly put off having a coil! I'm only 19, and haven't ever had a smear, never mind children!!!!! I'm not the sort of person to get my bits out so after reading about these traumatic experiences I was so scared to go to my appointment! I have had an IUS fitted (Mirena, NOT copper coil) I went to my appointment a the family planning clinic in a hospital to be greeted by a nurse who discussed a few bits with me first. I then went to see the doctor. She was amazing and really put me at ease! I told her about these comments on here, and she said she was disgraced people have had such bad experiences, and she would NEVER do the procedure without local anaesthetic injections. She even used an anaesthetic gel for me as she said I was young and tight. I trusted her as she told me she had 40 years experience.

During the procedure all i felt was a little pressure and bit of period pain. And sometimes it felt like i was on a rollercoaster and my tummy turned upside down! I did get the giggles, so they must have thought I was really weird!

I have had the mirena for a few weeks now, and have only had 4 days of spotting (i can barely even call it spotting the blood was so minimal) and the first 3 days I had about an hour of period pain a day. Nothing major - and I have a pain tolerance of about ZERO!

I would definitely recommend getting a coil, at least i dont have to worry about taking pills or any unexpected pregnancy for the next five years!

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rednosebag said on 21 September 2010

I don't wish to alarm you ladies, but I was conceived in 1979 whilst my mother was wearing a coil - I know the chances of becoming pregnant are extremely slim, but not impossible. Saying that, I'm sure there have been advances in designs over the last 30 years, however I will be looking into other methods of contraception after I have had a 2nd child.

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missy g said on 24 August 2010

I had a copper IUD fitted today as a method of emergancy contraception and can safely say this was SUCH a traumatic experience. The two doctors who saw to me were very nice, but felt that they had become de-sensitised to the pain that the actually fitting can cause. The womb examination was embarassing but hardely painful, all I can say for the actually fitting of the IUD is NOT PLEASANT a tall, sharp crampy pains, but just about bearable, even for a baby with a pain threshold of zero like me. The real hell came after the coil had been fitted, almost immediately after fitting I began to feel very hot and dizzy and almost fainted when I tried to get off the bed, I then cried, wretched and heaved for 45mins whilst writhing in pain as the two doctors re-assured me. The pain was almost exactly the same pain I experiences during a early medical terminations, and I had been totally un-prepared for this, as I was told to expect "period like pains", period pains do not usualy make me faint, throw up, double over in pain and cry. After 45mins I finally left the clinic and went home to bed in excruciating pain, 2 diazapam, 2 ibuprofen and 2 codeine and an hours sleep later I could finally say the pains I was getting were period like, and at the moment about 7hrs after the procedure I feel the most normal I have all day, but am painfully aware that Im heavily medicated...Im not looking forward to what the painkiller free morning will bring and can only hope the coild gets better with time! Think very carefully about this method of contraception

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sus66 said on 25 July 2010

Had my coil(NOT mirena) removed about two months ago....had one period a few days late & not had one at all this month;am almost a week late(usually regular).
Have scoured the internet for info on missed periods but its very limited on the copper coil,most info relating to the Mirena...
My question is,is it usual to miss periods following the removal of the copper coil?
I seem to have had PMT for at least two weeks & period aches...

Sus66

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starshine33 said on 15 April 2010

I have the none hormone iud fitted yesterday and to be honest it's not that painful to have fitted. Not to say it didnt hurt, but it was only while it was being put in, after that i was fine, i had some cramping a couple of hours later which was worse than them fitting it, after some painkillers it was ok. I've had this fitted after alot of thought, i had the implant fitted last year after my 2nd baby was born, it was great no pill to remember to take.......but after a few months i put on weight (not too much but enough) i was also very tired, all the time no matter how much sleep i was getting, and i lost all intrest in sex.... completely. It just didnt work for me, so i'm now hoping the iud will.

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EmaMonkey said on 04 March 2010

I have been on the contraceptive pill for the last 10 years and decided it was time for a change. My GP had given me a leaflet on the IUD and I decided to do some of my own research on the internet. I was nearly put off having an IUD fitted after reading about the pain some women have experienced. However having tried every other type of contraception I decided that the IUD was the best possible next option for me. I called my local (Glasgow) sexual health clinic and made an appointment. Before attending I took a couple of ibuprofen. At the clinic I was met by three lovely, female, friendly health care professionals - two doctors and care assitant. They really couldn't have been nicer - they put me at ease immediately. The procedure itself, all things considered, couldn't have went better from my perspective. The doctor advised that because I have never had children, my cervix was quite tight and so it might be quite uncomfortable. The initial examination was painful but not excessively so - sharp and crampy and pinchy at the same time. I was trying to control the pain by breathing deeply but I must have been making some terrible faces, so I was immediately offered a local anaesthetic which I happily accepted! The injections were not much more painful than having blood taken from your arm. Once I had received the injections, the pain was vastly decreased. The doctor inserted the IUD and cleaned up the small amount of bleeding that I experienced..and that was that! Contraceptive protection until 2020! That was 3 hours ago and I am feeling only a little bit of cramping so, so far so good! I have to say the care and attention I received was fanastic and, all things considered, I couldn't have asked for a more pleasant experience - a big thank you to those who treated me!

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bell21 said on 01 March 2010

I had to get this fittied as emergancy contraception and the whole experience was a nightmare. the condom broke and i went to get the morning after pill but threw it up so had to get this on day five. I had to phone three sexual health clinics and the hospital and all refused to fit it because they were too busy. when i finally pestered a clinic long enough i was taken. when i was there the nurses were horrible, were cursing in the other room that they were too busy, banging on a computer because it wouldnt take my details and i was an emotional wreck by the time i was taken in. I was offered no pain refief and i was screaming through it. I was so painful. Now my periods are heavy and my cramps are terrible. I want this thing out of me but im terrified to go back. My experience has been awful. If your looking for contraception without pain this wouldnt be it.

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alevus said on 02 February 2010

I had it fitted yesterday in our local surgery, the GP and the nurse were very helpful, nice and they explained everything in detail, so there were no last minute surprises for me. They even warned me when I booked the appointment, about getting a painkiller before coming to the surgery and I had made a lot of research before I went to the surgery, so I almost knew everything on how to fit a IUD and the side effects. I had a C-section, so my womb was really tight, that's what the GP told me right before she inserted the IUD, so if you gave normal birth you are more likely to feel less pain. There is pain, needless to say, but it was more like cramps during your periods, only heavier, but for me they were not killer type. Thankfully the whole procedure lasted only 10 minutes so it was not unbearable but the whole thing is really "uncomfortable". However, I strongly advise to those who would like protection without hormones, IUD is the best thing, the protection lasts for almost 5 years and it vanishes the discomfort of using condoms with your husband:) Another advise, the cramps last a couple of days and you may have a slight bleeding, so keep a handful of painkillers in reach, and I really do not have any idea about how my periods are going to be after the coil, but so far so good...

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peahead said on 22 January 2010

well said ouch_that_hurt! i had an IUD about 10years ago, and put up with the PAIN it caused with periods as the pill doesn't agree with me (and after learning of the way it has been tested on primates, i believe is unethical so i won't use it again). the pain of having it fitted was terrible, and no pain killers were offered! why is this? come on NICE, if this were a dental proceedure, anesthetics would be in place automatically, but because it's gyney, women just have to put up with it? get some good practice in place PLEASE, and not just a paracetamol, IT DOESN'T TOUCH THE PAIN. something like lignocaine would be ideal, just not in an injectable medium!
having said all that though, i am going to get another fitted, yes i'm scared but it's better than an unplanned pregnacy and as much as i love my newborn babe, getting pregnant would be terrible, being in a relationship makes condoms clumbersome so IUD is the only one suitable.
with the benefit of others experiences and my own hindsight, 30 mins before the fitting i'm asking the doctor for 30mgs of codiene and getting the doc to warm the instruments up. if this doesn't happen, NO ONE is going near my holiest of holy's!
i wonder where i can get answers to the reason why pain relief isn't used in IUD fitting?
hope youre feeling less sore now ouch_it_hurt.

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la_femme said on 13 January 2010

My GP recommended the coil to me too, but he also said that the string may have a little scratch effect on the partner's penis?? And because of this he wants me to get implant fitted, however the comments about implants are totally mixed and seems like it affects most people emotionally. I am all confused!!

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la_femme said on 13 January 2010

My GP recommended the coil to me too, but he also said that the string may have a little scratch effect on the partner's penis?? And because of this he wants me to get implant fitted, however the comments about implants are totally mixed and seems like it affects most people emotionally. I am all confused!!

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moneybags said on 10 January 2010

i have had a coil fitted five years, i have to get a new one fitted within the month, I did have the copper coil and was very painful and heavy periods, then i switched to the merina coil which i have never had pain and mostly over 5 years period free, it releases a small amount of hormone and reduces periods to almost zero, some 3/4 months go by when i see nothing. I am having another merina coil would have nothing else. well recommended.
hope this helps ladies as we have to go through hell with the choice of contraceptions out there.

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ouch_that_hurt said on 09 January 2010

I had a coil fitted recently after getting sick of missing my contraceptive pill. I have to say that the experience of having it fitted was extremely traumatic, I had no pain relief offered whatsoever, I wasn't even offered the choice of having a female practitioner and instead had an old man who seemed blissfully unaware of the amount of pain he caused me despite my crying out in pain during the procedure. I spent the following 24 hours faint, shaking and sick, and I couldn't bare having sex for about a month after - I've had plenty of smears and never had trouble, this pain was awful. I have had the coil for 3 / 4 months now, my periods are unbearable, and sometimes the pain lasts for the entire month, I am too scared to revisit my doctor for fear of experiencing the same pain again, but I really want this thing out of me. Anyone having a coil fitted must demand pain relief, and to those fitting these things, you must give women decent pain relief, our vagina's are not your playground.

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