THE IUS – AKA THE
HORMONAL COIL
A SMALL DEVICE THAT STOPS
SPERM IN THEIR TRACKS.
FITTED IN MINUTES, WORKS FOR YEARS
The intrauterine system (IUS) is a small, soft and flexible T-shaped device with a reservoir containing a hormone called progestin. It is placed in your womb by your doctor or nurse and slowly releases the hormone; this thins the lining of your womb and thickens cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to get through. It's 99.8% effective, so you're as protected against pregnancy as you can be.
A couple of consultations with your doctor or nurse are about all that's needed. Once you've discussed it, and decided it's the right method for you, the IUS can be placed by your doctor or nurse. It works continuously for up to three to six years with no daily or weekly routine to remember, so it's a great option for someone looking for long-acting birth control. If and when you decide to stop using it, you should have it removed by your doctor or nurse. The contraceptive effect of IUS wears off quickly after removal and you will return to your normal level of fertility.
HOW IT MEASURES UP
HORMONES
Yes. No estrogen, but a low dose of a progestin hormone that acts mainly locally in the womb.
EASE OF USE
The IUS must be placed and removed by a doctor or nurse. But once correctly placed, it can be continuously used for up to three to six years. If you want to stop using the IUS, a doctor or nurse can remove it in minutes.
YOUR PERIOD
Periods may generally become less frequent, lighter and less painful – or stop altogether. Some may experience cramps, irregular bleeding and spotting in the first three to six months.
IS IT PAINFUL TO HAVE AN IUS PLACED?
IUS placement pain is usually well tolerated by most. Some experience pain and dizziness after placement, but this usually settles after a short time. Your doctor or nurse may advise you to take simple painkillers, and other ways you may be able to minimize discomfort.
CAN THE IUS FALL OUT OR GET STUCK IN MY WOMB?
The IUS will be placed by a doctor or nurse, who will make sure it is correctly positioned. Occasionally, muscle contractions during menstruation can push it out of place or expel it, and very rarely it can perforate the wall of the womb. If you experience any unusual bleeding, pain, or discomfort, you should consult your doctor or nurse as soon as possible.
WILL MY PARTNER OR I FEEL THE IUS DURING SEX?
The IUS is a small, soft and flexible device. Neither you nor your partner should feel it during sex. If you do, intercourse should be avoided until you can seek advice with your doctor or nurse.
DOES AN IUS STOP PERIODS?
It can make your periods lighter, shorter or stop altogether. For this reason, some IUS can help those with heavy periods. In the first three months after insertion you may experience irregular bleeding.
HOW LONG DO CRAMPS FROM IUS PLACEMENT LAST?
For many the cramps go away relatively quickly, while for others, they could last longer. Cramps should gradually decrease in severity but may continue on and off for the first few weeks after placement.
I CAN'T FEEL THE IUS STRINGS. SHOULD I?
Up to 18% of IUS users can have missing strings during their check-ups. They may be higher up in your vagina or coiled around your cervix, which is generally no cause for concern. If you are worried, speak to your doctor or nurse.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER IUS REMOVAL?
You may experience some cramping, changes in your period, or moderate bleeding. If you’re concerned about any side effects after removal, contact your doctor.
IS THERE A HORMONE-FREE IUS?
An IUD (or intrauterine device) is hormone-free. It’s a copper coil that releases copper to stop you from getting pregnant – in contrast to an IUS that releases the hormone progestin into your womb.
CAN I GET PREGNANT SOON AFTER I REMOVE MY IUS?
Yes. Your doctor or nurse can remove your IUS at any time within minutes, and you will return to your fertility almost right away.
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Make an appointment with your doctor or nurse today.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
3-6 years
Works continuously once placed.
<1 years
The time it takes for the majority to become pregnant after removal.
IMMEDIATELY OR AGAIN AFTER 4 WEEKS
The time after giving birth when an IUS can be placed.
PROS
- It’s highly effective in preventing pregnancy for several years.
- There’s no need for you to remember using it.
- It allows spontaneous sex and doesn’t interrupt it.
CONS
- It doesn’t protect against HIV and any other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- A doctor or nurse must place and remove it for you.
- It can feel uncomfortable during placement – if this worries you, talk to your doctor or nurse about ways you can relieve the pain.
SHARE
