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Hormonal Intrauterine Device (LNG-IUD) “Coil”

The hormonal IUD can be fitted either in the first 48 hours after delivery, or 4-6 weeks later. This will be discussed by your healthcare professional before you give birth and can be planned for the time of your delivery. It can also be inserted at the time of a planned caesarean section.

The hormonal intrauterine system (LNG-IUD) (sometimes known as a Mirena/Levosert/kyleena) is a little, t-shaped device that is placed in your uterus (womb).

It releases a small amount of hormone, called progestogen, which prevents sperm from getting through the cervix into the uterus and meeting up with an egg. It can last up to 5 years or more.

It is more than 99% effective. That means fewer than 1 out of 100 people who use an IUD will get pregnant each year.

Advantages 

  • Suitable for breastfeeding women.
  • Lasts at least 5 years.
  • It can reduce your menstrual flow or stop your periods. 
  • It can reduce heavy or painful periods.
  • Can be inserted before you leave hospital.
  • Does not contain oestrogen (safer for some people). 
  • Removed at any time and fertility returns to normal quickly.
  • It is not affected by other medications.

Disadvantages 

  • Possible irregular periods or no periods. 
  • Small risk of infection after insertion.
  • You are not protected against STIs. 
  • You may have some side effects such as breast-tenderness, acne, headaches, low-mood these should clear up after a short time.
  • There is a small risk your body may expel the IUD. 
  • Some women can develop small fluid-filled cysts on ovaries, this is uncommon, and these usually disappear without treatment.