A coil is a small plastic anchor shape, 24 to 36 mm long, that we place in the womb. It prevents pregnancy: a hormonal coil thickens the mucus in the cervix and keeps the lining of the womb thin, while a copper coil stops sperm from moving. In both cases fertilisation usually does not happen.
If the coil is fitted within seven days of the start of your period, you are protected against pregnancy straight away. If it is fitted later, you will need to use additional contraception (condoms) for another seven days.
Depending on the type you choose, you are protected for five to ten years. That means you do not have to think about contraception every day.
Hormonal coils
These coils contain the hormone progestogen, which has the same properties as progesterone. The hormone is released gradually into the wall of the womb. The amount is 10 to 30 times smaller than with other hormonal methods of contraception.
There are two: the Kyleena and the Mirena. The Kyleena protects against pregnancy for five years and the Mirena for eight. The active substance in these coils is levonorgestrel. The Kyleena releases 0.009 mg a day and the Mirena 0.02 mg a day.
Copper coils
These coils contain no hormones, which makes them suitable if you cannot or would rather not use hormones.
The T-Safe is the most widely used copper coil in the Netherlands. It protects against pregnancy for ten years.
Want to know more?
If you would like to know more about coils and having one fitted, do get in touch — there is no obligation. We will give you all the information you need.