IUS – Intrauterine System

An IUS is a small, T-shaped plastic device that is inserted into your womb by a doctor or nurse.

The IUS is similar to the IUD, but works in a slightly different way. Rather than releasing copper like the IUD, the IUS releases the hormone progestogen. This thickens the mucus from your cervix, making it difficult for sperm to reach an egg. It also thins the womb lining so that it’s less likely to accept a fertilised egg. It may also stop ovulation (the release of an egg) in some women.

It works for five years, so you don’t have to think about contraception every day or each time you have sex.

Less than one in every 100 women who use the IUS will get pregnant in five years.

How is it fitted?

It takes about 20 minutes to insert an IUS. The vagina is held open, like it is during a cervical screening (smear) test, and the IUS is inserted through the cervix and into the womb.

Possible side effects

  • periods usually become lighter, shorter and sometimes less painful. They can stop altogether
  • irregular bleeding or spotting is common in the first six months
  • some women may experience mood swings, skin problems or breast tenderness with both devices.

IUD – Intrauterine Device

A small T- shaped plastic and copper device which is inserted into the womb. It works by stopping the sperm and egg from surviving in the womb. It may also prevent a fertislised egg from implanting in the womb.

An IUD works as soon as it’s put in, and lasts for up to 10 years, depending on the type, so you don’t have to think about contraception every day or each time you have sex.

Less than one in 100 women who use an IUD will get pregnant in one year.

How is it fitted?

It takes about 20 minutes to insert an IUD. The vagina is held open, like it is during a cervical screening (smear) test, and the IUD is inserted through the cervix and into the womb.

Possible side effects

Your periods may become heavier, longer or more painful, though this may improve after a few months.

Where do I get the coil (IUD/IUS)?

Visit your nearest sexual health clinic or your GP surgery.