An intrauterine device (IUD or IUS) is one of the most effective forms of contraception available — more than 99% effective. And yet many women in Surrey and South London wait months for an NHS fitting appointment, or find that their GP practice no longer offers the service. At Lambert Medical Practice in Surbiton, Dr Dela Dillon-Gbekor (DFSRH) performs private coil fittings with appointments usually available within a week.
Mirena IUS vs Copper IUD: Which Is Right for You?
There are two main types of intrauterine device. Both are T-shaped devices made of flexible plastic that are inserted into the uterus by a trained clinician. They differ in how they work:
Mirena IUS (hormonal)
- Contains levonorgestrel (a progestogen) — released locally at a very low dose
- Lasts up to 8 years
- Makes periods significantly lighter — up to 90% reduction
- Many women find periods stop altogether after a year
- Can be used for heavy periods (menorrhagia) independently of contraceptive need
- Can be used as the progestogen component of HRT
- Systemic hormone levels very low but not zero
Copper IUD (hormone-free)
- No hormones — works by releasing copper ions which are toxic to sperm
- Lasts up to 10 years
- Periods may become heavier and more painful, particularly in the first few months
- Preferred by women who cannot or prefer not to use hormonal contraception
- Can be used as emergency contraception if fitted within 5 days of unprotected sex
- No effect on future fertility after removal
Neither is objectively better — the right choice depends on your periods, your plans for future pregnancy, your tolerance for hormonal contraception, and your individual health history. Dr Dela will help you decide at your consultation.
Who Can Have a Coil Fitted?
Most women can have an IUD or IUS fitted. There are a small number of contraindications, including:
- Current unexplained uterine bleeding (requires investigation before fitting)
- Current pelvic infection or STI (requires treatment first)
- Uterine abnormalities that distort the cavity (fibroids or polyps may need assessment)
- Known or suspected pregnancy
- Copper allergy or Wilson's disease (copper IUD only)
- Certain hormone-sensitive cancers (Mirena IUS only — discuss with Dr Dela)
Women who have never been pregnant can have a coil fitted. Modern smaller devices have made fitting more feasible in nulliparous women. Dr Dela will discuss any additional considerations with you before proceeding.
What Happens at a Coil Fitting Appointment?
Your appointment at Lambert Medical Practice follows this sequence:
1
Consultation (15 min): Dr Dela takes a full medical history, reviews your menstrual cycle and contraceptive history, discusses the options in detail, and answers your questions. She explains the procedure, potential side effects, and what to expect afterwards.
2
STI screening (if indicated): Dr Dela may recommend a gonorrhoea and chlamydia swab before fitting to reduce the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease. This can be done at the same appointment.
3
The insertion (5–10 min): You lie on the examination couch with knees bent. Dr Dela uses a speculum to access the cervix, measures the depth of the uterus with a thin rod (sounding), and then inserts the IUD or IUS through the cervical canal. The threads are trimmed to length. Most women experience period-like cramping at this stage.
4
Recovery (10–15 min): You remain lying down for a few minutes after insertion. Many women feel mild cramping for a few hours afterwards. We ask you not to rush off — take your time, and we'll check you're comfortable before you leave.
5
Follow-up: Dr Dela recommends a check appointment 4–6 weeks after fitting to confirm correct placement. After that, your coil needs no routine checks — just be aware of the removal/expiry date.
Tip: Take ibuprofen 400mg (or naproxen 500mg if prescribed) one hour before your appointment. This reduces cramping during and after insertion.
What to Expect Afterwards
Copper IUD: Expect heavier, longer, or more painful periods for the first 3–6 months. This usually improves significantly. If bleeding becomes very heavy or you have severe pain, contact the clinic.
Mirena IUS: Irregular spotting and light bleeding is very common in the first 3–6 months. This is normal as your body adjusts. After 6 months, periods typically become much lighter and many women find they stop completely.
Either device can be removed at any time by Dr Dela if you decide to try for a pregnancy, change to another method, or experience problems. Fertility returns quickly after removal.
Book a Private Coil Fitting in Surbiton
Dr Dela Dillon-Gbekor MRCGP DFSRH · Lambert Medical Practice, KT6 · No NHS referral
Frequently Asked Questions
We allocate 45 minutes for a coil fitting appointment — consultation, procedure, and recovery time.
Most women experience period-like cramps during and immediately after insertion — usually for a few hours. Take ibuprofen or paracetamol beforehand. If you feel severe pain at any point during the procedure, tell Dr Dela and she will stop.
Mirena releases a low-dose progestogen and typically makes periods lighter or stop. The copper IUD is hormone-free; periods may become heavier at first. The best choice depends on your periods, hormone preferences, and plans for pregnancy.
Yes. Modern smaller devices are suitable for nulliparous women. The insertion may be slightly more uncomfortable but is entirely feasible. Dr Dela will advise on the best device for your anatomy.
A copper IUD is effective immediately upon insertion — it's also the most effective form of emergency contraception. The Mirena is effective immediately if fitted in the first 7 days of your cycle; use additional contraception for 7 days if fitted at other times.