Advice following insertion of intrauterine contraception

This information is for patients who have had an IUD or IUS (“the coil”) fitted.

After the insertion

You may have period-like cramps after the insertion of the device, which may last for up to 3 days. You can use paracetamol 500mg or ibuprofen 400mg three times a day. Please note ibuprofen should be taken following food.

You may notice some bleeding for the first few days after the insertion of the device. Use sanitary towels rather than tampons or menstrual cups in the first 7 days after insertion. This is to reduce the risk of infection or accidental removal of the device. Bleeding may continue to be irregular in the first few months.

You should avoid sex for the first 3 days to reduce the risk of infection. If you have had an IUS (“hormonal coil”), you may need to avoid sex for 7 days to ensure you are fully protected against pregnancy.

If you experience any of the following, contact a sexual health clinic or see your GP as soon as possible:

• Smelly vaginal discharge
• Constant lower abdominal or pelvic pain
• Pain during sex
• Raised temperature

The IUD and IUS are very effective, with less than 1 in 1000 women falling pregnant with this method. However, if you do fall pregnant there is a small risk of an ectopic pregnancy, where the egg implants outside of the womb. Although it is rare, it is serious. If you suspect you are pregnant at any time or experience a lighter than normal/delayed period or have sudden lower abdominal or pelvic pain, attend a sexual health clinic or see your GP as soon as possible.

Checking your threads

We recommend checking the threads of your device 3 to 6 weeks after insertion. Following this, you can check the threads once a month, preferably after your period if you are still experiencing them.

To check your threads:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water
• Get into a squatting position, or raise one leg onto a stool or edge of the bath
• Insert one finger into the vagina and push back until you reach the cervix. It will feel round, smooth and firm
• Feel for the threads, which should be near the cervix. They may be wrapped around the cervix and can felt if you sweep your finger across. Be careful not to pull the threads as this may dislodge the device

If you cannot feel threads, they feel longer than usual or you think you can feel the plastic body of the device, you should attend a sexual health clinic or see your doctor as soon as possible. You should also avoid any unprotected sex until the position of the device is confirmed.

DO NOT attempt to reinsert or remove the device on your own.

Further information about intrauterine contraception can be found on the Sexwise website.