What's involved in having one put in?

A doctor or a nurse fits a copper intrauterine device (IUD) in your womb up to five days after you had unprotected sex, or up to five days after the earliest time you could have released an egg (ovulation).

How does the IUD work?

It may stop an egg being fertilised or implanting in your womb. It’s a copper or hormone-covered coil that stops the fertilized egg landing in the uterus. Your doctor has to put it in.

Pros of using an IUD

Cons of using and IUD

• Not so good for young women – risk of infected fallopian tubes.
• Can make periods heavier
• Doesn’t protect against AIDS or other sexually transmitted infections – in fact, can make some infections worse

How effective is a copper IUD?

Very effective, almost 100%. It can also provide ongoing contraception if you want.

Can anyone use an IUD?

Most women can use an IUD for emergency contraception. However, if you have been at risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection (for example by having more than one sexual partner or your partner having other partners) you could get a pelvic infection. You may have screening tests done at the time the IUD is fitted and you may also be given some antibiotics to prevent a pelvic infection.

An IUD may be suitable if you:

• are too late to take emergency pills (over 72 hours after unprotected sex)
• do not want to or cannot take progestogen
• want to use the most effective method of emergency contraception
• want the IUD as an ongoing method of contraception.

Do I need to see a doctor or nurse after the IUD is fitted?

It is important to see a doctor or nurse three to four weeks after the IUD is fitted, whether or not you have had a period. This is to check you are not pregnant, the IUD is still in the correct place and discuss any problems.

When can I have the IUD removed?

If you do not want to keep the IUD as your regular contraceptive method, it can be removed as soon as you are sure you are not pregnant (usually during your next period). Use an extra contraceptive method such as condoms, for seven days before the IUD is taken out. This is because sperm can live inside your body for up to seven days and could fertilise an egg once the IUD is removed.

Family Planning Association - for details of local clinics, call the Contraceptive Education Service.

England - 0845 310 1334

Scotland - 0141 576 5088

N. Ireland - 02890 325488

Website -http://www.fpa.org.uk