The intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) is a small, T-shaped plastic device that’s placed inside your womb (uterus). It was previously known as an intrauterine system (IUS).

It is often called the coil with hormones, and it releases progestogen into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy.    Progestogen is a synthetic form of a hormone called progesterone. 

The LNG-IUD works much like the coil without hormones (CU-IUD), which uses copper rather than progestogen.

An LNG-IUD works for between 3 and 8 years. It’s very effective at preventing pregnancy: fewer than 1 in 100 women who use it for contraception will get pregnant in any 1 year. 

You may have heard of some LNG-IUD brands such as Mirena, Levosert, Benilexa and Kyleena.

The LNG-IUD thickens the mucus at the entrance to your womb (the cervix), stopping sperm from getting inside. It also thins the lining of your womb, making it harder for a fertilised egg to implant. 

It might stop your ovaries releasing an egg (ovulation), but most women still release eggs while using the LNG-IUD. 

The first step is a telephone call where suitable methods are discussed and you can learn more about the procedure.

You can get the LNG-IUD at any time, as long as you’re not pregnant. At your appointment, your doctor or nurse will check inside your vagina to confirm the size and position of your womb. You will be offered a cervical smear test  and may also be tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

While the LNG-IUD is inserted, your vagina will be held open with a special device like the one used for a smear test. This can sometimes be uncomfortable or a bit painful. 

If you are worried, ask your doctor or nurse for a local anaesthetic first, or take some painkillers before your fitting. You can also ask to stop at any point. 

Your appointment will last about 20 minutes. Fitting the LNG-IUD takes about 5 minutes. 

After your fitting, you might get a few days of cramps and bleeding. Painkillers can help.

Your LNG-IUD can be removed at any time. But if you are 45 or older when you have it fitted, you can leave it in until you reach the menopause . 

Most women can use the LNG-IUD. It can be a good option if you cannot use contraception that contains oestrogen, such as the combined pill.    

The LNG-IUD may not be right for you if you have:

  • certain health conditions (or have had them in the past), including cervical or womb cancer, breast cancer in the past 5 years, liver disease, arterial disease (a disease that affects your arteries) or any history of stroke or heart disease. 
  • unexplained bleeding after sex or between periods
  • an untreated pelvic infection or STI
  • any problems with your womb or cervix

We do not provide LNG-IUD fitting for use alongside hormone replacement therapy (HRT) - we are commissioned to provide hormonal coils for contraceptive purposes only.

It can help to have a chat with us before you book to have a coil fitted.

Pros: 

  • Your natural fertility will come back as soon as you get the LNG-IUD removed.  
  • It is very effective at preventing pregnancy and you will not need to think about contraception for a long time. 
  • It might make your menstrual bleeds lighter and shorter. It could even stop them altogether. 
  • It is not affected by other medicines, unlike many other forms of hormonal contraception (such as the contraceptive pill).    
  • It’s safe when you’re breastfeeding. 
  • It can help with period pains. 

Cons:

  • It does not protect against STIs, so you may need to use a condom as well.  
  • Getting an STI while using the LNG-IUD can cause a pelvic infection.
  • You need a doctor or nurse to take it out if you change your mind.  
  • You might get side effects such as mood swings, headaches, breast tenderness or acne – but these do not tend to last for long. 
  • Some women get an infection after the LNG-IUD is fitted, but this is uncommon. 
  • There is a small chance that your IUD will move or be pushed out by your body. Your doctor or nurse will teach you how to check it’s in right.  
  • The LNG-IUD has rare complications. For example, you could get small cysts on your ovaries.
  • If it fails and you get pregnant, you are at increased risk of an ectopic pregnancy (when a fertilised egg implants outside of your womb).  

You can get the LNG-IUD from some sexual health clinics, contraception clinics and GP surgeries.  

Use our service finder, or ring our information and booking line on 0800 328 3383.