THE IUS – AKA THE
HORMONAL COIL
A SMALL DEVICE THAT STOPS
SPERM IN THEIR TRACKS.
FITTED IN MINUTES, WORKS FOR YEARS
The intrauterine system (IUS) is a small, soft, T-shaped device with a reservoir containing a progestin hormone, levonorgestrel, that is placed in your womb by your doctor or nurse. It slowly releases the hormone, which thins the lining of your womb and thickens cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to get through. It's 99.8% effective, so you're about as protected against pregnancy as you can be.
A couple of consultations with your doctor or nurse are about all that's needed. Once you've discussed it, and decided that it's the right method for you, the IUS can be fitted. It works continuously for up to five years with no daily or weekly routine to remember, so it's a great option for everyone looking for a long-acting contraception. If and when you decide to stop using and remove it, the contraceptive effect of the IUS wears off quickly, allowing you to return to your normal level of fertility
HOW IT MEASURES UP
HORMONES
Yes. A progestin hormone, levonorgestrel is released from the IUS into the womb and acts mainly locally.
EASE OF USE
The IUS must be fitted by a doctor or nurse, but once it is correctly placed it is effective for up to five years. If you want to stop using the IUS, a doctor or nurse can remove it in minutes.
YOUR PERIOD
Heavier periods may become lighter and periods may become less frequent in general. However some women experience cramps and irregular bleeding. Spotting is also common in the first six months of use.
CAN THE IUS FALL OUT OR GET STUCK IN MY UTERUS?
The intra-uterine system, IUS in short, (also known as the “hormonal coil”) must be placed by a doctor or nurse, who will ensure it is correctly positioned. Occasionally, muscle contractions during menstruation can push it out of place or expel it, and very rarely it can perforate the wall of the uterus. If you experience any unusual bleeding, pain, or discomfort, you should consult your doctor or nurse as soon as possible.
WILL MY PARTNER OR I FEEL THE IUS DURING SEX?
The IUS is a small, soft and flexible device. Neither you nor your partner should feel it during sexual intercourse. If you do, intercourse should be avoided until you can seek advice with your doctor or nurse.
DOES AN IUS STOP PERIODS?
It can make your periods lighter, shorter or stop altogether. For this reason, it can help some women who have heavy periods. Additionally, in the first three months after placement you may experience irregular bleeding.
HOW LONG DO IUS CRAMPS LAST?
For many women, the cramps go away relatively quickly. But for others, they may last longer. Cramps should gradually decrease in severity but may continue on and off for the first few weeks after placement.
I CAN'T FEEL THE IUS STRINGS. SHOULD I?
Around 4.5 – 18.1% of women can’t feel the IUS strings. They may be higher up in your vagina or coiled around your cervix, which is generally no cause for concern. If you are worried, speak to your doctor or nurse.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER IUS REMOVAL?
You may experience some cramping, changes in your period, or moderate bleeding. If you’re concerned about any side effects after removal, contact your doctor.
IS THERE A HORMONE FREE IUS?
An IUD is a copper coil that releases copper to stop you from getting pregnant – it does not contain hormones. By contrast, an IUS releases the hormone progestogen into your body.
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Make an appointment with your doctor or nurse today.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Up to 5
YEARS
Works continuously once fitted.
<1
YEARS
The time it takes for the majority of women to become pregnant after removal.
6
WEEKS
The time after giving birth when an IUS can usually be fitted.
- Stay in place for up to five years, but can be removed at any time.
- Allows spontaneity and doesn’t interrupt sex.
- Can offer an alternative to women who experience negative effects from the hormone estrogen.
- Some women experience shorter, lighter, or less frequent periods.
- Can be used when breastfeeding.
- Fertility can promptly return to your normal levels once the IUS is removed.
- A doctor or nurse must perform the placement and removal.
- Some women experience irregular bleeding, cramps and spotting in the first six months.
- Some women experience headaches, tenderness, and acne after the IUS is placed, but this is less common than with the pill.
- Doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
NEED ADVICE? SPEAK TO YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL.
Seek out an appointment with your doctor or nurse for further support that meets your needs.
