Implant
A long-acting reversible contraceptive method.
The implant is a small plastic tube that is about 4cm long and is inserted under the skin in your upper arm. The implant releases a hormone which stops the ovaries from releasing an egg.
The implant prevents pregnancy for up to three years, and is over 99% effective.
The implant is safe to use for as long as you need, and your fertility will return to normal when it is taken out. It is suitable for women who can’t use contraception with oestrogen in it.
The implant is inserted into your arm, which may be sore or swollen for a few days. You may experience some side effects, and the implant may affect your periods. If your bleeding pattern is unacceptable this can usually managed by your GP.
For more information please read the Family Planning Association (FPA) guidance "Your guide to contraceptive implant".
Coil
A long-acting reversible contraceptive method.
A coil is a small, T-shaped plastic or copper device that is placed in a woman's womb and can provide contraceptive protection for up to ten years.
We offer two types of coil at Marie Stopes UK: a hormonal coil and a non-hormonal coil.
Hormonal coil
Also known as an intrauterine system (IUS), it is a small T-shaped plastic device inserted into your uterus. The IUS releases progestogen to prevent pregnancy for 3-5 years.
The IUS is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, and you don't have to think about contraception for up to 5 years. This method is suitable for women who cannot use contraception containing oestrogen, and once removed your fertility will return to normal.
It is common to experience bleeding or spotting in the first six months after having the IUS fitted, but after that your periods may become irregular, lighter, or stop altogether. This makes the IUS a very good choice for women who experience heavy or painful periods.
For more information please read the Family Planning Association (FPA) guidance "Your guide to the IUS"
Non-hormonal coil
An intrauterine device (IUD), or copper coil, is a small copper and plastic T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus. It releases copper, which prevents pregnancy by stopping the sperm and eggs surviving in the womb. The copper coil can remain in place for 5-10 years.
The IUD is suitable for most women, including if you are breastfeeding or unable to use hormonal methods of contraception. Once removed, your normal fertility will return straightaway. The IUD is very popular with women who dislike hormonal methods of contraception.
For more information please read the Family Planning Association (FPA) guidance "Your guide to the IUS"
Injection
A long-acting reversible contraceptive method.
There are two types of the contraceptive injection, Depo-Provera is given in the muscle in the bottom and the Sayana Press is self-administered beneath the skin in your tummy or top of the thigh and you can be taught to do this yourself.
They both contain the hormone progestogen, which is released into your blood to prevent pregnancy. The injection lasts up to 13 weeks at a time.
The injection can be given at any time during your menstrual cycle, and is more than 99% effective with perfect use, and 94% effective with typical use. It can be used while breastfeeding, and is also suitable if you can’t use oestrogens.
Your periods will probably be affected by the injection, and may stop altogether. Women who suffer from heavy or painful periods often like this method. Your fertility will return to normal but periods could be delayed for up to 18 months after stopping the injection.
For more information please read the Family Planning Association (FPA) guidance "Your guide to contraceptive injection".