Contraceptive Care

The contraceptive implant works by steadily releasing a small amount of progesterone into the bloodstream, which prevents pregnancy. It stops ovulation, meaning no egg is released each month whilst also thickening the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to travel through the cervix, and gently thins the lining of the uterus so that a fertilised egg is less likely to implant. Together, these actions provide highly reliable, long-acting contraception while allowing your body to return to its natural cycle once the implant is removed. 

During the procedure, your Specialist GP will ensure you feel comfortable, fully informed, and at ease. The appointment begins with a thorough explanation of each step, giving you the opportunity to ask questions before the procedure begins. 

When you are ready, a small area on the inside of your upper arm is cleaned and marked. A local anaesthetic is then administered to numb the area, which typically takes effect within a few moments. This ensures that the implant insertion or removal is usually felt only as mild pressure or a brief pinch rather than pain. Your Specialist GP will check in with you throughout the procedure to ensure you remain comfortable and at ease. 

Once the area is numb, the implant is either gently inserted just beneath the skin using a sterile applicator or carefully removed if it is due for replacement. For those having a replacement implant fitted, the GP will take extra care to ensure a smooth transition between removal and insertion. Placement is confirmed before concluding the procedure. 

Although the implant procedure itself only takes a few minutes, the full appointment typically lasts around 30 minutes, allowing time for preparation, discussion, and clear aftercare guidance without feeling rushed. 

Our aim is to create a calm, supportive environment where you feel cared for from the moment you arrive until you leave. If at any point you need reassurance or would like to pause, your Specialist GP will adjust the process to meet your needs. 

An implant can be fitted or replaced at any point in the menstrual cycle, provided there is no possibility of an existing pregnancy. If the implant is inserted within the first five days of your natural cycle, contraceptive protection is immediate. If the procedure occurs at any other time, the implant will not provide instant protection, and an additional contraceptive method is recommended for the following seven days. 

Yes. The contraceptive implant can be fitted at any time following childbirth. If it is inserted within the first 21 days postnatally, contraceptive protection is immediate. If fitted after this timeframe, additional contraception is recommended for the first seven days. The implant is safe to use while breastfeeding.

Complications, such as infection or a small cervical tear, are extremely rare. For most people, the benefits of routine cervical screening significantly outweigh any risks.

The contraceptive implant is well tolerated by most people, though some may notice mild changes in the first few months as their body adjusts. The most common effects are changes to menstrual bleeding patterns, which can vary from lighter or less frequent periods to occasional irregular bleeding. Some individuals may also experience temporary symptoms such as headaches, breast tenderness, mood changes, or mild skin changes. These effects are usually manageable and often settle over time. Your Specialist GP will discuss all potential side effects with you during your pre-assessment appointment, ensuring you have clear, personalised information to help you make a confident and informed decision. 

Yes, a chaperone can be made available for your appointment upon request. If you would like a chaperone present, please let us know in advance, where possible. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of our front of house team when you arrive and they will be happy to assist.

During your consultation, our specialist GP will take the time to discuss all available options and help you decide which type of coil is most appropriate for your individual needs. Everyone is different, and we ensure this decision is fully personalised. Your GP will explain the benefits and considerations of both types of coils: 

• IUD (Intrauterine Device / Copper Coil)

• IUS (Intrauterine System / Hormonal Coil, such as the Mirena or Kyleena)

An IUD can be fitted at any point in your menstrual cycle, provided pregnancy is excluded, and it offers immediate contraceptive protection.

An IUS can also be fitted at any time; however, it provides immediate protection only when inserted within the first seven days of your cycle. If fitted outside this window, additional contraception – such as condoms – is recommended for the following seven days. 

A contraceptive coil (IUD) works by sitting inside the uterus and preventing pregnancy either through copper, which stops sperm from surviving long enough to fertilise an egg, or through progestogen hormone, which thickens cervical mucus to block sperm and thins the uterine lining so pregnancy is unlikely. Both types are over 99% effective and work continuously once inserted.

A copper IUD prevents pregnancy by releasing copper ions, which alter cervical mucus and create an environment that reduces sperm mobility and viability, making it more difficult for sperm to reach and fertilise an egg. It may also prevent implantation by affecting the lining of the womb.

An IUS (hormonal intrauterine system) releases a low, steady dose of progestogen. This thickens the cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to enter the uterus, and thins the lining of the womb, reducing the likelihood of implantation. In some women, it may also temporarily suppress ovulation. 

During the procedure, your specialist GP will take time to ensure you feel comfortable, fully informed and at ease. The appointment begins with an explanation of each step, giving you the opportunity to ask questions before any examination takes place. 

When you are ready, a speculum is carefully and slowly inserted to allow your specialist GP to view the cervix and assess the size, shape, and position of the womb. Your specialist GP will check in with you throughout to ensure you are comfortable and at ease.

To minimise any discomfort, a local anaesthetic is applied directly to the cervix. This takes effect within moments and ensures that the coil insertion itself is often felt only as pressure or mild cramping rather than pain. You will be guided through each stage as it happens, with the option to pause at any time.  

Once the area is numb, the coil is gently inserted through the cervix and positioned within the womb. Your specialist GP will confirm placement before concluding the procedure. 

Although the insertion of the device typically takes only around five minutes, your full appointment lasts approximately 30 minutes, allowing time for preparation, discussion, and aftercare advice without feeling rushed. 

Removal of a coil follows a similar, carefully managed process. If you are having a replacement fitted, your specialist GP will take a little extra time to ensure a smooth transition from removal to insertion. 

Our aim is to create a calm, supportive environment where you feel cared for from the moment you arrive until the moment you leave. If at any point you need reassurance or would like to pause, your specialist GP will adjust the process to ensure it aligns with your needs. 

It is completely normal to experience some cramping or light bleeding after a coil insertion or removal. These symptoms usually settle quickly and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol. 

As with any medical procedure, there is a small risk of infection. Please contact your GP or the support team if you experience any of the following: 

• Severe lower abdominal pain 

• A high temperature 

• Unusual or unpleasant vaginal discharge 

There is a small chance that the device may become displaced or be expelled by the body. During your appointment, your consultant will explain how to check that your coil remains in place. 

Before your procedure, our specialist GPs will arrange a 15-minute telephone consultation to ensure you are fully prepared and know exactly what to expect. During this call, we will review your medical history, discuss your contraceptive needs, and confirm that a coil insertion or removal is appropriate for you at this time. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions. 

Your GP will explain how to prepare for the appointment, including: 

• Whether any additional contraception is needed before or after the procedure 

• What medications you can take to help with any discomfort 

• What to expect during the fitting or removal 

• How to plan for the rest of your day, as you may experience mild cramping afterwards 

This preparation helps make your visit as smooth and comfortable as possible, ensuring you feel informed, supported, and ready for your procedure.