IUD (copper coil)
A small hormone-free T-shaped device placed in the womb. Lasts 5 or 10 years.
What does IUD mean?
IUD (copper coil): A small hormone-free T-shaped device placed in the womb. Lasts 5 or 10 years.
How it is used in the Splash library
It is more likely with a new partner, an IUD, or perfumed products used in or around the vagina, though people who have never had sex can get it too.
From “Thrush vs BV: the itchy, fishy truth”Copper coil (IUD) – over 99%.
From “Every contraception method, compared”Copper coil (IUD)
From “Coils: copper IUD vs hormonal IUS”Copper coil (IUD): fitted within 5 days (120 hours) of unprotected sex, or up to 5 days after the earliest you could have ovulated.
From “Emergency contraception: your options”Copper coil (IUD) and hormonal coil (IUS): fertility returns to previous levels straight away after removal
From “Getting pregnant after stopping contraception”
IUD (copper coil) explained
An IUD (intrauterine device), often called the copper coil, is a small T-shaped device made of plastic and copper that is placed in the womb. Copper changes the environment of the womb and fallopian tubes so sperm and eggs can't survive or meet.
It contains no hormones. It is over 99% effective, and depending on the type, lasts 5 to 10 years (NHS).
What's typical
It is fitted by a trained nurse or doctor in a few minutes. Fitting can be uncomfortable or painful, and you can ask about pain relief beforehand.
Periods may be heavier, longer or more painful, especially in the first few months. Your natural cycle, ovulation and hormones carry on as normal.
It can also be used as emergency contraception up to 5 days after sex. It can be removed at any time, and fertility returns straight away.
When to talk to a GP, nurse or pharmacist
- You can't feel the threads, or can feel the hard part of the device.
- You have pain in your tummy, fever, or unusual discharge, especially in the weeks after fitting.
- You think you might be pregnant: an IUD makes this very unlikely, but if it happens there is a higher chance it is ectopic.
In the UK you can call NHS 111 for advice at any time. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). This is general information, not medical advice.
Where it comes up
Sources
Sources checked October 2026.
See it in your own cycle.
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