Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD)

How is an IUCD inserted?

Insertion of an IUCD takes approximately 10 minutes. It involves you lying on a couch while a speculum is inserted into the vagina and local anaesthetic is placed into the cervix to numb the area. The depth of the uterus is then measured with a 'sound'. This is a fine probe which allows us to insert the IUCD to the correct depth. The IUCD will then be inserted through the cervix into the cavity of the uterus where it is to be held in place. Two fine threads will remain in the vagina, just beyond the cervix, which can be used to check the position of the IUCD. The thread is then trimmed and it is usually advisable for you to rest on the couch for a few minutes afterwards, as you may feel slightly faint during the procedure. After insertion, we recommend that you sit in the waiting room for 15-30 minutes.

There are 2 types of IUCD: a hormonal IUCD or a copper IUCD.

The copper IUCD releases copper particles to prevent pregnancy, while the hormonal IUCD releases the hormone pregestin to prevent pregnancy.

Advantages include:

Inexpensive
Effective in preventing pregnancy for 5-10 years
Convenient
It starts working straight away after insertion
Mothers can breastfeed with IUCD's

However, if you have an IUCD inserted, you may experience these side effects:

Cramps and a backache for the first few hours after IUCD insertion
Bleeding and pain for a couple of weeks after insertion
Heavier periods (if you are using the copper IUCD)

It is very important to note that IUCD's do not protect you from getting sexually transmitted infections. You should always use condoms during sexual intercourse to protect yourself from catching an infection.

What Our Patients Say

“ When I found that I was unexpectedly pregnant, I wanted a someone to talk to who would be sympathetic and unbaised and who would go through all my options in detail. This is exactly what I found with the team at 132 Healthwise. Although it was a very difficult time, the sensivitiy and understanding of the team was remarkable. I would recommend them to anyone who finds themselves in my situation. ”

Miss CM, London

What Our Patients Say

"I panicked when I discovered that I was five weeks pregnant. It was a total shock and I wanted to deal wih the problem urgently. I knew that I didn't want to keep the pregnancy, for a vareity of reasons, but I didn't know how to deal with it. Rather than waiting for an NHS appointment, a friend recommended I rang 132 Healthwise. From the first phone call I was put at ease. I was given an appointment the next day, when I had a scan and saw the consultant. I had many questions, all of which were dealt with in detail and with sympathy. I made the decision to go ahead with a medical abortion, which was very straightforward. I had the consultants personal phone number, so I could ring him at any time, if I had worries or further questions. Nobody wants to be in this situation, but the staff at 132 Healthwise made it as trouble free as possible."

Miss AF, London