IUS & IUD (Coil)
IUS and IUD are also known as the coil or Mirena.
Intrauterine system (IUS)
What is it?
It’s a plastic, t-shaped devise placed into the womb that releases progestogen.
How effective is it?
Over 99%
Advantages
You don’t have to think about it every day.
It is a long term method that can work for up to 5 years.
It can help with heavy and/or painful periods. They become lighter and less painful – sometimes they may stop altogether but this is ok and not unhealthy.
Your fertility returns to normal once you have it removed.
Disadvantages
Sometimes there can be irregular bleeding or spotting for the first 6 months of having an IUS.
It doesn’t protect against STIs.
Interauterine Device (IUD)
What is it?
A small plastic and copper device put into the womb.
How effective is it?
Over 99%
Advantages
You don’t have to think about it every day.
This is a long term method. It can stay in your body for 5-10 years.
Your fertility returns to normal after it is removed.
Ideal for those who can’t or don’t want to take hormones.
It can also be used as emergency contraception up to 5 days after having unprotected sex.
Disadvantages
It can often make periods longer, more painful and heavier.
It doesn’t protect against STIs.
