An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped contraceptive device made from plastic and copper that fits inside the womb (uterus). It used to be called a coil or a loop.
It’s a long-lasting and reversible method of contraception but it is not a barrier method. This means that an IUD can prevent pregnancy but won’t stop you getting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It’s different to an intrauterine system (IUS) which releases the hormone progestogen into the body.
An IUD stops sperm from reaching the egg. It does this by releasing copper, which changes the make-up of the fluids in the womb and fallopian tubes. These changes prevent sperm from fertilising eggs. IUDs may also stop fertilised eggs from travelling along the fallopian tubes and implanting in the womb.
How do I get an IUD fitted?
There are different types and sizes of IUD to suit different women. IUDs need to be fitted by a trained doctor or nurse at your GP surgery, local family planning clinic or sexual health clinic. You may need to be tested for infection before the fitting or you may be given antibiotics, in case of infection, to take as it’s fitted.
It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to insert an IUD. The vagina is held open, like it is during a cervical smear test, and the IUD is inserted through the cervix and into the womb.
Some women find having an IUD fitted uncomfortable and painful, so you may also be offered painkillers. Read more about having an IUD fitted.
An IUD can stay in the womb for five to 10 years depending on the type. If you’re 40 or over when you have an IUD fitted, it can be left in until you reach the menopause or until you no longer need contraception.
Most women can have an IUD fitted, including women who have never been pregnant or who are HIV positive. An IUD is usually fitted during your menstrual period. From the moment the IUD is fitted until the time it is taken out, you are protected against pregnancy.
Read more information on when an IUD can be used.
Removing an IUD
An IUD can be removed at any time by a trained doctor or nurse.
If you’re not going to have another IUD put in and you don’t want to become pregnant, use another contraceptive method (such as condoms) for seven days before you have the IUD removed. This is to stop sperm getting into your body. Sperm can live for seven days in the body and could cause pregnancy once the IUD is removed.
As soon as an IUD is taken out, your normal fertility should return.
How effective is an IUD?
An IUD is 98–99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Newer models that contain more copper are the most effective (over 99% effective). This means that less than one in every 100 women who use the IUD will get pregnant in a year.
As a long-lasting method of contraception, the IUD is very effective. You don’t need to remember to take or use contraception to prevent pregnancy. However, there are some disadvantages to an IUD, such as longer and more painful periods. And you’ll still need to use other types of contraception to prevent STIs. Read more about the things to consider before getting an IUD.
In rare cases there may also be some complications after having an IUD fitted. This can include pelvic infections in the first 20 days after fitting, or the IUD moving out of place. Read more about the risks of having an IUD fitted.
Emergency contraception
The IUD can also be used as a method of emergency contraception up to five days after unprotected sex or up to five days after the earliest time you could have released an egg (ovulation). If you have unprotected sex, make an appointment with your GP or clinic as soon as possible.
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