IUD (Intrauterine device)
Copper IUD
Copper IUDs are a method of contraception that do not contain any hormones and are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
The IUD works as soon as it's put in and lasts between 5-10 years, depending on the type. It can usually be put in at any time during your menstrual cycle, as long as you're not pregnant.
How it works
When inserted, the IUD releases small amounts of copper that change the make-up of the natural fluids in the womb, stopping sperm form surviving there. An IUD can also stop a fertilised egg from implanting in the womb
Who can use an IUD: Most people with a uterus can use an IUD, but your clinician will ask about your medical history to check it is a suitable method for you.
Advantages: once it's in place, you don't have to think about it each day or each time you have sex. The IUD can also be used as emergency contraception.
An IUD can stay in the uterus for 5-10 years, depending on the type. If you're aged 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.
Disadvantages:
Changes to your periods (periods being heavier, longer or more painful) are common.
The IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so you may need to use condoms as well.
Where you can get the IUD from
- make an appointment online or telephone the service on 0300 123 5474 to come into one of our clinics.
Our partner GPs also fit copper IUDs.
If you need to bring your child/children with you to your appointment, we recommend you bring another adult with you to care for them.
More information
Visit NHS Choices - IUD
IUS
About the IUS
The IUS is a method of contraception that contains a single hormone (progestogen) and is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
How it works
The IUS releases progestogen hormone. This thickens the mucus at the cervix, making it harder for the sperm to move through it.
An IUS can be fitted at any time during your menstrual cycle, as long as you are not pregnant and you have not had any unprotected sex. Your nurse or doctor who fits the IUS will ask you questions about your last period and any sex you have had since then to check it is safe to fit. If it isn’t safe you may be advised to return another day and offered a short-term method of contraception to use until then.
Once fitted you should avoid sex or use condoms for the next 7 days.
Who can use an IUD: Most people with a uterus can use an IUD, but your clinician will ask about your medical history to check it is a suitable method for you.
ADVANTAGES:
Once it's in place, you don't have to think about it each day or each time you have sex. The IUS can make your periods lighter, shorter or stop altogether, so it may help people who have heavy periods or painful periods.
Disadvantages:
The IUS does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so you may need to use condoms as well. Some women may have changes to their bleeding pattern that they are not happy with. If this is the case please contact Sexual Health Wirral for advice.
How long does it last for?
The IUS is licensed for 3-8 years for contraception depending on which device is fitted, Your clinician should discuss this with you at your appointment.
The Mirena IUS was recently licenced for 8 years for contraception. If you are using your Mirena for contraception only it does not need changing until it has been in for 8 years.
If you were aged 45 or older when you had the Mirena IUS fitted, it can be kept in place for contraception until age 55. However, if you’re using your Mirena IUS as part of HRT it should be changed after 5 years.
We are only able to fit an IUS for contraception. If you need your IUS changing for HRT this should be done in a GP practice: GP Services in the Community - Sexual Health Wirral
If you don’t want to get pregnant you should avoid having unprotected sex for a week before the IUS is removed.
Where you can get the IUS from
- make an appointment online or telephone the service on 0300 123 5474 to come into one of our clinics.
- Our partner GPscan also fit the IUS for contraceptive purposes.
If you need to bring your child/children with you to your appointment we recommend you bring another adult with you to care for them.
Please note: Our clinics will only fit an IUS for contraceptive purposes. If you have been advised to have an IUS for the treatment of heavy periods only or as part of HRT, this should be done via a GP: GP Services in the Community - Sexual Health Wirral
More information
Visit NHS Choices - IUS