Your questions
We've collected together the most frequently asked questions about contraception, to ensure that you can find the right contraception for you.
An IUCD insertion is usually well tolerated by most women. Local anesthesia may be applied to the uterine cervix prior to the insertion. Some women may experience pain and dizziness after insertion, which usually settles after resting for a short time.
The IUCD can be used as emergency contraception and must be inserted within 5 days (ideally within 120 hours) after unprotected sex.
The IUCD must be inserted by a trained healthcare professional, who will follow the necessary procedure to ensure it is correctly positioned. Occasionally, the muscular contractions of the womb during menstruation may sometimes push it out of place or expel it. Very rarely insertion of the IUCD can perforate the wall of the uterus. If a user of an IUD experiences any unusual bleeding, pain or discomfort, her doctor must be informed as soon as possible.
Neither you nor your partner should feel the IUD during sexual intercourse. If you do, sexual intercourse should be avoided until your doctor has checked that the IUD is still in the correct position.
Use of sanitary pads is recommended. If tampons are used, you should change them more frequently, and with care so as not to pull the threads of the IUD when manipulating the tampon.
Women using an IUD are more likely to experience an increase in blood loss each month than non-users. This typically occurs because of increased duration and heaviness of menstrual flow, but may also result from irregular bleeding and spotting in between periods.
Women with an IUD can experience an increased duration and heaviness of menstrual flow.
An IUCD can be left in place from 3 up to 10 years, depending on the type. After this time, it will need to be replaced with a new device. If this method of contraception has worked well for you, and if you still wish to use a long-term contraceptive option, then you can discuss with your healthcare professional about fitting a new IUCD.