How to arrange an IUD, hormonal coil or contraceptive implant in England
Katerina Galkina · EN · 07/10/2026
Читать на русскомA specially trained clinician fits a coil or implant. Ask your GP practice or sexual health service whether it provides fitting and removal. NHS contraception services are free; obtain a full quotation for private care. NHS: contraception services ↗.
Choose a method during consultation
Discuss copper IUDs, hormonal IUS devices and arm implants. Explain bleeding patterns, conditions, medicines, previous experience and pregnancy plans. Duration depends on the exact product and purpose, rather than the general word “coil”.
For an overseas device, bring its model and insertion date. Mention missing documentation early: localisation and removal may need separate arrangements.
Arrange booking and preparation
Ask about preliminary consultation, pregnancy and STI testing, and whether the procedure requires a separate appointment. Obtain instructions on sex and contraception before fitting or removal. Do not stop protection without an agreed plan.
NHS guidance describes IUD fitting at GP surgeries or sexual health clinics and possible tests. Discuss pain relief beforehand, including local anaesthesia where available. NHS: IUD fitting and removal ↗.
Agree comfort and aftercare
Request an explanation of stages, risks, chaperones and the option to stop. Disclose previous painful insertion or traumatic experiences. For implants, confirm local anaesthetic and insertion-site care. NHS: contraceptive implant ↗.
After fitting, obtain the product name, date, review or replacement deadline and written advice on when protection begins, temporary additional contraception and adverse effects.
Seek help for problems and plan removal
If you cannot feel the usual IUD threads, NHS advice is to contact a sexual health clinic, GP or 111 promptly, use alternative protection until checked and discuss emergency contraception. Do not pull a device out yourself.
Severe pain, fever, heavy bleeding or possible pregnancy require assessment rather than waiting for replacement. Arrange removal early too: consultation may not include the procedure. If avoiding pregnancy, agree protection before removal; fertility can return immediately after an IUD is removed.