…to enable choice
…to ensure rights
…to increase skills
…with compassion and care
What is it?
A small flexible rod, about the size of a hairgrip, which is inserted under the skin in the upper arm under local anaesthetic. There is only one type that is prescribed in the UK at present, it is called Nexplanon. It contains the hormone progestogen.
The implant can be removed at anytime with immediate return of fertility.
How it works.
The implant slowly releases progestogen into the bloodstream preventing ovulation from taking place (releasing of an egg) and thickens the mucus around the cervix, making it difficult for sperm to get into the uterus. It also makes the lining of the uterus thinner so that it is less likely to accept a fertilised egg.
Advantages
Disadvantages
How effective is it?
The implant is 99% effective.
What makes it less effective?
Some prescribed and complementary medicines.
What it is?
An IUD is a small plastic or copper ‘T’ shaped device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It does not contain hormones.
How it works
The main way an IUD works is to stop sperm reaching an egg. The copper in the coil prevents sperm from surviving
It may also work by stopping a fertilised egg from implanting in the uterus.
An IUD does not cause an abortion.
A trained doctor or nurse should fit the device. They will usually fit it during or just after your menstrual cycle to ensure that a pregnancy is not present but can be fitted at other times. The procedure can take between 5 and 15 minutes and may cause some discomfort. Painkillers or a local anaesthetic can be requested prior to the procedure.
The IUD will have one or two fine threads that come through the cervix opening and sit at the top of the vagina. This enables you to make sure that the device is still in place and should be checked on a monthly basis.
Advantages
Disadvantages
How effective is it?
IUD is 99% effective.
What it is?
An IUS is a small plastic ‘T’ shaped contraceptive device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is also called Mirena. It is effective for up to five years.
How it works
The IUS contains the female hormone progestogen, which it slowly releases into the body. This thickens the mucus from the cervix making it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg. It also thins the lining of the uterus to prevent an egg from implanting. In some cases it can stop a woman from ovulating.
A trained doctor or nurse should fit the device. They will usually fit it during or just after your menstrual cycle to ensure that a pregnancy is not present. The procedure can take between 5 and 15 minutes and may cause some discomfort. Painkillers or a local anaesthetic can be requested prior to the procedure.
The IUS will have one or two fine threads that come through the cervix opening and sit at the top of the vagina. This enables you to make sure that the device is still in place and should be checked on a monthly basis.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Some of the temporary side effects that can occur are:
How effective is it?
Over 99% effective.
All methods are available at our clinics – please discuss with us you your options following treatment.
For more information on different forms of contraception, go to our contraception advice page.
