What Is Coil Contraception and How Is the Coil Fitted?

What is a contraceptive coil? A contraceptive coil isn't a large or permanent device, as many people imagine. It's actually a small, T-shaped contraceptive that provides long-lasting, reversible protection against pregnancy and is more than 99% effective when fitted correctly. 

If you're weighing up your options, understanding how the different coils work, what the fitting involves, and which one may suit you can make the decision feel much more straightforward.

What Is the Coil Contraception

A contraceptive coil is a small, flexible, T-shaped device that's placed inside your uterus to help prevent pregnancy. Although it's called a "coil," modern devices aren't actually coiled; the name has simply stuck over time.

There are two types: a copper coil and a hormonal coil. Both are long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC), which means they provide reliable protection for several years without you needing to remember a daily pill or other regular contraception.

Unlike the birth control pill, which only works well if you remember to take it every day, a contraceptive coil keeps working without becoming part of your daily routine. It can stay in place for 3 to 10 years, depending on the type you choose, and can be removed at any time if your plans change.

Also Read: Who Can Use the Contraceptive Implant?

How Soon Does the Coil Start Working? 

A copper coil works immediately once it's fitted. A hormonal coil also protects you straight away if it's fitted within the first 7 days of your period. If it's fitted later, use condoms for the next 7 days while the hormone has time to thicken cervical mucus and prevent sperm from reaching an egg. 

Different Types of Contraceptive Coils

During a consultation, the conversation is usually less about effectiveness and more about which option fits your health, menstrual cycle, and personal preferences. There are two types of contraceptive coils, and both offer the same high level of protection against pregnancy. 

Copper Coil

If avoiding hormones matters to you, or you need contraception at short notice, this option is worth considering. 

It contains no hormones and works by creating an environment where sperm can't survive long enough to fertilise an egg. It can also be used as emergency contraception if it's fitted within five days of unprotected sex. 

The trade-off is that your periods may become heavier, longer, or more painful, particularly during the first few months after fitting.

Hormonal Coil

If heavy or painful periods have been a struggle, a hormonal coil may be a better fit. It releases a small amount of progestogen directly into the uterus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg while also thinning the womb lining.

The Mirena coil is the most commonly used hormonal coil. It provides effective contraception for up to five years while releasing a higher dose of progestogen than some other hormonal coils. As a result, it often makes periods much lighter or stops them altogether over time.

Mirena is also used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding and to protect the womb lining during hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Whichever option suits you, Dr Lisa carries out fitting and removal for both the copper coil and the Mirena coil, so you can have the full conversation and the procedure with the same person.

Also Read: 5 False Facts About The Coil

Who Can Have a Coil Fitted?

A contraceptive coil is suitable for many people looking for long-term, reversible contraception. You can get a coil fitted if you:

• Are a teenager or an adult.

• Have never had children.

• Have had a baby and have recovered enough for fitting.

• Have recently had a miscarriage, if your doctor confirms it's appropriate.

• Are breastfeeding, following an individual assessment.

One of the common myths is that you need to have had a baby before getting a coil. That's simply not true. Modern guidelines support coil fitting for many people who haven't given birth.

However, it may not be appropriate if you have certain untreated pelvic infections, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or some uterine abnormalities.

Does Having a Coil Fit Hurt? 

You may feel brief period-like cramps or a sharp pinch while the coil is being fitted, but the most intense part usually lasts only a few moments. If you're concerned about discomfort, Dr Lisa can discuss pain relief options beforehand and guide you through the procedure at a pace you're comfortable with. 

How Is the Coil Fitted?

Knowing what happens during the appointment can help ease any nerves. The fitting itself usually takes 5–10 minutes, although your appointment will be a little longer to allow time for discussion and questions.

Step 1: Before Your Appointment

Before the fitting, Doctor Lisa will discuss your medical history, confirm that a coil is suitable for you, and rule out pregnancy. If needed, you may also be assessed for a sexually transmitted infection (STI). You'll have the chance to ask questions, discuss pain relief options, and give your consent before the procedure begins.

Quick tip: Eat beforehand unless you've been advised otherwise, as this can help you feel more comfortable.

Step 2: A Gentle Pelvic Examination

A speculum is gently placed into your vagina so your cervix can be seen clearly. This feels similar to a cervical screening, and you may notice some pressure, but it only lasts a short time.

Step 3: Measuring Your Uterus

A slim measuring instrument is used to check the depth of your uterus. This helps ensure the coil sits in the correct position. You may feel brief period-like cramps, but they usually pass within moments.

Step 4: Fitting the Coil

The coil is folded inside a narrow insertion tube and gently guided through the cervix into the uterus. Once it's in place, it opens into its T-shape, the tube is removed, and the threads are trimmed. The fitting itself usually takes only a few minutes.

Step 5: After the Fitting

Mild cramping and spotting are expected during the first few days. However, if you develop severe pain, heavy bleeding, a fever, unusual vaginal discharge, or you can't feel the threads when you previously could, it's important to contact Dr Lisa or seek medical advice promptly. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid Before and After Having a Coil Fitted

A few simple steps before and after your appointment can help your fitting and recovery go more smoothly.

• Choose the right coil. Discuss your medical history, menstrual cycle, and future pregnancy plans to find the most suitable option.

• Time your appointment carefully. This can affect how soon a hormonal coil starts protecting you from pregnancy.

• Ask about pain relief. If suitable for you, taking pain relief beforehand may help reduce discomfort.

• Use backup contraception if advised. Some hormonal coils don't work immediately and may require extra protection for the first 7 days.

• Check the coil threads regularly. If you can't feel them or think the coil has moved, contact your healthcare provider.

• Follow advice on tampons and menstrual cups. Wait until your clinician says it's safe to use them.

• Remember, a coil doesn't protect against STIs. Use condoms if you need protection against sexually transmitted infections.

• Seek medical advice if you're concerned. Don't rely on online searches to diagnose problems after your fitting.

When Should You Speak to a Doctor?

Serious problems after a coil fitting are uncommon. For example, uterine perforation occurs in fewer than 1 in 1,000 fittings, and people only experience mild cramping or spotting that settles within a few days. The key is knowing which symptoms are a normal part of recovery and which deserve medical advice.

• Severe or worsening pelvic pain that isn't improving.

• Heavy bleeding that's more than you expected.

• A fever, unusual vaginal discharge, or symptoms that could suggest an infection.

• You can't feel the coil threads (if you've been shown how to check them), or they suddenly feel longer or shorter than before.

• Persistent pain during sex, or your partner repeatedly feels the plastic part of the coil.

• A positive pregnancy test while the coil is in place.

If you're uncertain about your symptoms, your coil, or whether everything is healing as it should, getting personalised medical advice is always the safest way to move forward. 

Also Read: What Is Family Planning

Final Thought

Choosing the right contraception is a personal decision, and having the right support makes it easier. Doctor Lisa specialises in coil fittings, helping you weigh your options and guiding you through the process with care and clear communication at every step.

If you're ready to take the next step, book a consultation with Doctor Lisa today.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1. How is a coil inserted?

A doctor or nurse inserts the coil through the vagina and cervix into the uterus during a short procedure, usually taking just a few minutes.

Q2. What does the coil do?

It prevents pregnancy either by releasing copper ions (copper coil) or hormones (hormonal coil), both of which stop sperm from reaching or fertilising an egg.

Q3. Is coil insertion painful?

Many people feel cramping or discomfort during insertion, but it's usually brief. Pain relief can be discussed beforehand if you're concerned.

Q4. How long does a coil last?

Depending on the type, a coil can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years before it needs to be replaced or removed.

Q5. Can a coil be removed at any time?

Yes, a coil can be removed at any time by a healthcare professional, and fertility usually returns quickly afterward.

Q6. Does having a coil fitted affect periods?

It can. Copper coils may cause heavier periods, while hormonal coils often make periods lighter or stop them altogether.