Dr Lisa Neligan
Contraceptive Coil
The contraception coil is a reliable method of birth control that is placed in the womb to prevent pregnancy.
How Does the Contraceptive Coil Work?
There are two main types of contraceptive coil:
Copper Coil
Prevents sperm from surviving and reaching the egg, and may also prevent implantation (a fertilised egg attaching to the womb lining).
Copper Coils do not use hormones and last up to 10 years.
Copper Coils do not use hormones and last up to 10 years.
- Suitable if you prefer a hormone-free method of contraception.
- A good option if you want a break from hormonal contraception.
- Recommended if you cannot use hormonal methods due to medical or family history.
- Can make periods heavier or more uncomfortable, which should be considered.
Hormonal Coil
Works by thickening cervical mucus, thinning the lining of the uterus, and in some cases preventing ovulation.
Hormonal Coils use the hormone “progestogen” and you can choose whether they last up to 3, 5, or 8 years.
Hormonal Coils use the hormone “progestogen” and you can choose whether they last up to 3, 5, or 8 years.
- Suitable if you want a convenient “fit and forget” method with no daily maintenance.
- A good option if you have a busy lifestyle or find it difficult to remember tablets.
- Can make periods lighter and less painful, with some women having no periods at all.
- Not affected by other medications, including anti-epileptic drugs.
- Can be used as part of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), with Mirena providing both contraception and endometrial protection for up to 5 years
Important To Know
What happens at your appointment?
Prior to your appointment you will have a telephone appointment to discuss the suitability of you to have a coil, to counsel you on the risks and benefits of the coil and to answer any questions you may have .
Your face to face appointment will last 30 mins. In that time we will go over any further questions and talk you through the procedure once more.
The procedure itself should only take 5-10 minutes.
There will be a nurse or health care assistant present to make sure you are ok throughout the procedure.
It involves a speculum examination (like you would have for your cervical screening/smear) to visualise your cervix.
A topical anaesthetic is applied to help with your pain.
Your womb is measured and the coil is inserted through the cervix using a special device.
The coil is folded with its arms down in the device and once inserted into the womb the arms of the coil open to form the T shape.
Most women will get some period like cramping but we recommend taking paracetamol 1g and ibuprofen 400mg prior to your appointment.
What should I do prior to my appointment?
- Ensure no chance of pregnancy – continue current method of contraception, abstain from intercourse from 1st day of your period, or use barrier methods.
- Make sure you have any something to eat and drink – some woman can feel slightly faint after the procedure
- Take paracetamol 1g and Ibuprofen 400mg (if no contraindications) prior to your appointment
Do I have to have had children to have a coil fitted?
No, a coil can technically be fitted in any women regardless of if they have given birth or not.
Will my fertility return to normal after it is removed?
Yes, your natural fertility will return when your coil is removed, some women could get pregnant straight away after the coil is removed. The coil can be removed at any time.
How soon does it work?
The copper coil is effective immediately. The hormonal coil is effective after 7 days, you should use barrier methods e.g. condoms or abstain from intercourse for 7 days after insertion.
Meet Our GPs
At Kingsbridge, you’ll be in the expert hands of our dedicated GP team.
Our Locations
Our locations are equipped with modern facilities and experienced teams who will look after you throughout your treatment and recovery.
All sites are well connected by major transport routes, supporting patients travelling from border counties and across Ireland. Wherever you decide to go, you’ll receive the same high standard of personalised treatment.
Steps to get started
If you are considering a contraceptive coil, you can arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.
If you’re using health insurance
Check with your provider to see what’s covered. We’re happy to help with any paperwork and can work directly with many insurance companies to make the process smoother for you.
If you’re paying for treatment yourself or using a payment plan
We’ll give you clear information about costs and help you plan your care. You’ll know exactly what to expect, with no hidden fees.
Book an Appointment
To make things easier, you can book a new consultation appointment online.