Explore your options
IUS
What am I?
Sometimes called the hormonal coil, the intrauterine system (IUS) is a small, plastic T-shaped device that is inserted into the womb for 3-8 years before needing to be replaced1
Effectiveness2
| Perfect use | Typical use |
|---|---|
| N/A | 98% |
- Preventing the womb lining from thickening may make your period (withdrawal bleed) shorter and lighter than a natural period.1 What’s more, they may stop completely after the first year of use1
- Allows you to enjoy sex spontaneously without worrying about getting pregnant
- Requires minimal administration – once fitted by your healthcare professional, it doesn’t need to be replaced for a number of years1
- The IUS needs to be administered by a healthcare professional1
- Having an IUS fitted can be uncomfortable or painful1
- There is a slight risk of infection when the IUS is fitted1
- There is a slight risk the IUS may move or be pushed out by your body, so you need to check yourself if it’s in place1
- The IUS may cause irregular bleeding and spotting during the first 6 months – this is not harmful and usually decreases with time1
- Headaches are a common side effect that often subsides over time as the body adjusts to the hormones3
- The IUS doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) – condoms should be used as well1
Ready to test your knowledge?
Take the quiz!References
NHS Inform. IUS (intrauterine system). Available at: https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/contraception/ius-intrauterine-system/ Last accessed May 2025
NHS. How well contraception works at preventing pregnancy. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/contraception/choosing-contraception/how-well-it-works-at-preventing-pregnancy/ Last accessed May 2025
NHS. Side effects and risks of an IUS (intrauterine system) or hormonal coil. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/contraception/methods-of-contraception/ius-hormonal-coil/side-effects-and-risks/ Last accessed May 2025