The Menstrual Cycle

Each menstrual cycle starts on the first day of your period (day one) and lasts until the day before your next period begins.
 

LARC - Long Acting Reversible Contraception

LARC are types of contraception that prevent pregnancy 99 times out of 100 but they do not protect you from Sexually Transmitted Infections

There are two types of coil the IUS and the IUD, they are both types of LARC, find out more below:

Intrauterine System (IUS or the Mirena)

What is it?

A small plastic T-shaped device that is fitted into the womb and protects from pregnancy for up to five years.

Advantages

• It doesn’t interrupt sex
• It works for up to five years
• Your periods usually become lighter and less painful – they may stop altogether after a year
• Your normal fertility (the time when you can become pregnant) returns after the IUS has been removed
• It's not affected by other medicines

Disadvantages

• It doesn’t protect you against STI's
• If it fails there is a small risk that a pregnancy will develop in the fallopian tube known as an ectopic pregnancy
• It may cause side effects like headaches, tender breast or getting spots for a short time.

Intrauterine device (IUD or the coil)

What is it?

It's a small device made of plastic and copper – there are several different types – it is fitted into the uterus.

Advantages

• It doesn’t interrupt sex
• It works straightway
• It lasts for 5-10 years depending on the type you have fitted

Disadvantages

• It doesn’t protect against STIs
• It can make your periods heavier, more painful or last longer
• If it fails there is a small risk that a pregnancy will develop in the fallopian tube known as an ectopic pregnancy

Where can I get it from?

They can only be fitted by trained health professionals. They are free at the Integrated Sexual Health Service or from some GPs. If your GP does not fit them please go the Integrated Sexual Health Service, why not ask if the GP fits them when you make the appointment.  It is important that you ask the person who is fitting the coil when you will be protected from pregnancy.

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