Patient advice following introduction of a coil

What to expect after your coil fitting

Immediately after your contraceptive coil fit it is normal to experience some period-like symptoms such as stomach cramps and some bleeding. You may find the cramps continue for 24 – 72 hours. You can take simple pain relief (paracetamol/ibuprofen) for this. (As long as you are not allergic to these products).

If the pain is severe, gets worse or does not settle or you have abdominal bloating, heavy bleeding unusual or offensive discharge you should contact us GP/111.

Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 48 hours. You should avoid the use of tampons and menstrual cups in the first week after having a coil fitted, so use pads only. After this you can resume use. Please be aware menstrual cups can dislodge the coil if the threads are caught and pulled out with the cup.

During the fitting you may experience light headedness or a faint feeling. This should settle following the fitting, if it persists contact us or 111.

When can I resume sexual intercourse?

To reduce risk of infection or pregnancy it is advisable to avoid sex in the first 48 hours following insertion. Please note that Mirena/Copper coils do not protect you against sexually transmitted infections. Hence additional barrier protection such as condoms may still be advisable.

A copper IUD is effective straight away as contraception. An IUS (Mirena/Levosert/Kyleena or Jaydess) will not work as contraception for the first 7 days, and you should abstain from sex or use another contraceptive during this time.

Is there anything I should look out for?

Change in bleeding pattern occurs frequently after your coil insertion. If you have the Mirena coil, this will not be heavy bleeding, but some spotting may occur, this should settle after about 12 weeks.

If you think you may have an infection, please contact us as soon as possible. Symptoms of an infection may include Persistent or worsening lower abdominal pain – Abnormal vaginal discharge – Fever – Pain during sexual intercourse.

When does the coil need changing?

You will be advised of the date at which the coil needs to be removed or changed at your appointment. It is your responsibility to attend the practice or local sexual health clinic before this date to have your coil removed or exchanged before this date. If you are planning to conceive, please arrange an appointment with the GP or Nurse for the coil to be removed.

Checking your threads

Gently put your finger inside your vagina. Feel for your cervix (which feels firm, like the end of your nose). Gently roll your finger over your cervix and you should feel your threads. You should check for your coil threads once a month. It is unlikely that your coil will fall out, but if you cannot feel your threads, please abstain from sexual intercourse, or use condoms and make an appointment with the GP or Nurse to have the device checked. If you think you may have had sex since the coil has moved, you may need emergency contraception. Please seek advice as soon as possible.

If the threads cause discomfort to you or your partner, they can be trimmed. Please make an appointment with the correct Practice nurse or GP via reception to arrange this.