One of the gifts modern gynaecology has given us is the ability to control our fertility. Over the years, more forms of fertility control measures have been discovered, and this has left so many persons in confusion as to which option is suitable and best for use.
Generally, using contraceptive coil devices are an excellent option, and you can get coil fitting in London at a gynaecology clinic.
Since there are different types of coil devices available and choosing one may be difficult, here are some facts to help you out.
What are my options?
The different types of coils available fall into two categories
- IUD (Intrauterine devices)
Also known as the copper coil, the IUD is made of plastic and copper. It doesn’t involve hormones.
- IUS (Intrauterine system)
It is also known as the hormonal coil. It is made of plastic, and it releases a small amount of progesterone hormone into the uterus.
How is the insertion of coils done?
The IUD and IUS are inserted by a doctor, nurse or gynaecologist. Before your private IUD fitting, the doctor will check inside your vagina to know the position and size of your womb. You may also need to get tested for STIs and pregnancy.
The appointment usually lasts for 20 – 30 minutes, and fitting a coil takes about 5 minutes. To insert the coil, the doctor will hold the vagina open using a speculum and then insert the device through the cervix into the womb.
During the fitting, the coil may cause a little discomfort, but local anaesthetic may be administered to ease the discomfort.After the fitting, you may experience cramps, but over-the-counter painkillers can help with the pain. You may also bleed for a few days after the fitting.
Your doctor will need to check if the coil is still in place 3 – 6 weeks after the fitting.
How soon does the coil work?
- Copper coil (IUD) starts working immediately
- Mirena/Jaydess (IUS)
If fitted before day 5 of the menstrual cycle, it begins to work immediately, but if fitted after day 5 of the menstrual cycle, it begins to work 7 days after insertion.
The coil can be taken out at any time.
Advantages of using coils
- They can last for 5 – 10 years
- They are not affected by medicines, so it is a great option even if you forget to take pills
- Your partner would not feel the coil during sex
- You can use a coil with a menstrual cup
When can a coil be used after birth?
A coil can be fitted 4 weeks after vaginal birth or caesarean section. Sometimes, the coil can be fitted within 48 hours of giving birth. Coils do not affect the supply of breastmilk so they can be used while breastfeeding.
Non-hormonal (copper) coil
If you are concerned about taking hormones over a long period as a form of contraceptive, copper IUD would be a better option for you. The copper coil does not affect your periods and those women who have been on hormonal contraception for many years and do not know how their natural cycle works may find out that their periods are heavier than before.
You may experience spotting with copper coils during your cycle, but these side effect would improve after the first 6 months.
How effective is the copper coil?
The copper coil is more than 99% effective.
How does it work?
The copper IUD is made of plastic and copper. The copper alters the mucus in the cervix, making it difficult for the sperm to get to the egg for fertilisation. The copper also prevents a fertilised egg from getting implanted into the uterine wall. You can get pregnant immediately you remove your copper coil.
Disadvantages of copper coil
- Heavier, longer and more painful period
- No protection against STIs
- If there is an infection before inserting the coil, it may lead to pelvic infection.
- Occasional vaginal bleeding and pain in some women
Hormonal coil
Hormonal coils make periods lighter, shorter and less painful. Some women have no periods while using hormonal coils, while some experience irregular and painful bleeding.
How effective are hormonal coils?
They are more than 99% effective.
How does it work?
It releases a small amount of the hormone progestogen into the cervix. The hormone prevents the sperm from getting to the egg for fertilisation. It also prevents the lining of the womb from becoming thick, so there may be no need to have a period.
Advantages of hormonal coil
- It doesn’t cause infertility
- Women do not need to have their period every month
- It contains a low level of hormones
Disadvantages of hormonal coils
- Irregular periods
- Change in mood and libido
- Persistent headache, acne, and breast tenderness
- No protection against STIs
- Vaginal pain and bleeding in some women
Types of hormonal coils
There are two types of hormonal coils in the UK.
- Mirena – can last for 4 – 5 years
- Jaydess- lasts for up to 3 years
Hormonal coil removal is simple, and you can get pregnant immediately you remove it.
Call us now on 020 7183 0435 to book for your private coil insertion in London at Gynaecology Clinic.
