Copper coils: all about coils and contraception

All about copper coils and how they differ from hormone coils

What you need to know about copper coils and how they differ from hormone coils:

What is a copper coil and how does it work as a contraceptive? 

The copper coil is a T-shaped plastic device which has areas coated in copper and is fitted into your womb. The copper stops sperm from surviving in your cervix or womb. The presence of the device in your uterus can also stop any fertilised egg implanting. 

 What are the benefits of having a copper coil fitted? 

The copper coil is a reliable contraceptive which lasts for five to ten years or more depending on which type is fitted, and your age at the time of fitting. The copper coil does not contain any hormones, which can be preferable for some women. 

Copper coils lasting five years tend to be smaller and can sometimes be more appropriate for women who have not had children. 

How is a coil is fitted? 

The coil is a simple procedure lasting up to 20 minutes. A local anaesthetic gel can be used to make you as comfortable as possible. 

A speculum, similar to that used when you have cervical screening, will be inserted into your vagina and the coil inserted through your cervix into your womb. Two fine threads attached to the bottom of the coil lie at the top of your vagina. These threads allow you and your health professional to check the coil is in place and mean it can be easily removed when needed. 

Does it hurt having a coil fitted? 

It is common that women will experience period-like discomfort during and after the fitting, so using a local anaesthetic gel during the procedure to help. You may experience some bleeding afterwards, and you can take over the counter painkillers for any period-like pain. 

Women using this type of coil can have HRT and testosterone, if needed.  

You can find out more about coil fitting at Newson Clinic here.