Removing the IUD
When you should consider removing your IUD coil?
If you’re 40 or over when you have an IUD fitted, it can be left in until you reach the menopause or you no longer need contraception.
An IUD or Intrauterine device can be removed at any point in your menstrual cycle and must be done by a medical professional trained to do so. Removing the coil is much easier and quicker than inserting it so do not worry as there should be very little discomfort.
One benefit of an IUD is that you can become pregnant as soon as the coil is removed so you do not need to wait to try and conceive.
Does it matter which IUD I use?
There are two types of coil. The IUD releases copper and does not affect hormones. The copper alters the cervical mucus, which makes it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg and survive. It can also stop a fertilized egg from being able to implant itself. If you use this type there is no need to wait before trying to conceive.
The other type of coil is more accurately called an IUS. An IUS is a small, T-shaped plastic device that’s put into your womb (uterus) by a doctor or nurse. It releases the hormone progestogen to stop you getting pregnant and lasts for 3 to 5 years. If you are using this type of coil you should wait one menstrual cycle before trying for your baby.
Can an IUD be removed during pregnancy?
If you get pregnant with either type of coil in place then it is very important that you see a doctor as soon as possible. This is unlikely to happen but if it does there are two reasons you must see a doctor.
Firstly an IUD in your uterus can cause complications and increase the chance of a miscarriage. Removing the device whilst pregnant also carries a risk of miscarriage but it is lesser and it is much better to do so as soon as possible.
The second reason is that if you become pregnant with a coil in place you have much higher risk of an ectopic pregnancy. This happens when the baby implants and deveIf you’re 40 or over when you have an IUD fitted, it can be left in until you reach the menopause or you no longer neeIf you’re 40 or over when you have an IUD fitted, it can be left in until you reach the menopause or you no longer need coIf you’re 40 or over when you have an IUD fitted, it can be left in until you reach the menopause or you no longer need contraception.ntraception.d contraception.If you’re 40 or over when you have an IUD fitted, it can be left in until you reach the menopause or you no longer need contraception.lops in the fallopian tube not the uterus. This type of pregnancy cannot continue and can affect future fertility.
If you’re 40 or over when you have an IUD fitted, it can be left in until you reach the menopause or you no longer need contraception.
It is very important to consult your doctor in the unlikely event that you become pregnant with an IUD in place.
