IUD stands for Intrauterine Device. It is a tiny ‘T shaped’ device that is put into your uterus to prevent pregnancy. They are one of the most effective methods of contraception; they are long-acting and reversible.
Your guide to IUDs
What is an IUD?
Benefits of IUD's
Up to 99.8% effective
Lasts between 3 and 8 years
Small device inserted into your uterus
Hormonal and non-hormonal options
We understand that IUD insertion can feel uncomfortable for some patients
IUD and Mirena insertions are usually very well tolerated without any need for Anaesthetic. For the small number of people who find it too uncomfortable to be fitted, we can offer Penthrox.
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There are two types of IUD - ones with hormones and ones without
How does an IUD work?
Both copper and hormonal IUDs work by making it difficult for the sperm to move and get to the egg. If the sperm can’t reach the egg then you can’t get pregnant.
The copper IUD uses copper to prevent pregnancy. Sperm doesn’t like copper, so the copper IUD makes it almost impossible for sperm to get to the egg.
The hormones in the Mirena and Jaydess IUDs prevent pregnancy in two ways:
1) They thicken the mucus that lives on the cervix, which blocks and traps the sperm, and
2) They sometimes stop eggs from leaving your ovaries (during ovulation), which means there’s no egg for sperm to fertilise. No egg equals no pregnancy.
One of the great things about IUDs is that they last for years but they’re not permanent. If you decide you want to get pregnant or you just don’t want to have your IUD anymore, your nurse or doctor can quickly and easily take it out. You’re also able to get pregnant soon after the IUD is removed.
What’s the difference between copper and hormonal IUDs?
Hormonal IUDs
Lasts up to 8 years
Contains a very small amount of hormones (progestogen)
99.8% effective
2 in 1000 get pregnant
Helps control crampy and heavy periods. Likely to make your period much lighter or stop it altogether.
Learn more
Copper IUD
Lasts up to 5 years
Doesn’t contain hormones
99.2% effective
8 in 1000 get pregnant
Likely to keep your period the same
Learn more
Comfort during your IUD insertion
IUD insertion is typically a straightforward procedure and is well tolerated by most patients without the need for additional pain relief.
However, we understand that some patients may experience discomfort or find the insertion difficult. If this occurs, our clinicians can offer Penthrox (a fast-acting inhaled analgesic) during the procedure to help manage pain and improve comfort.
This is available at no additional cost and can be used if needed at the time of insertion. You can discuss this option with your clinician during your consultation.
Interested in using contraception?
Reach out online or call 0800 226 784 to speak with our patient care team. We value your decision about your health.
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