Coil/IUD Appointments
Expert Coil (IUD) Fitting, Checks and Removal in Newbury & Thatcham
Looking for professional and discreet coil (IUD) services in Berkshire?
Our clinic in Newbury and Thatcham offers expert IUD fitting, replacement, and removal to support your contraceptive needs and reproductive health in a relaxed and tranquil setting.
What Is a Coil (IUD)?
An intrauterine device (IUD), commonly known as a coil, is a small, T-shaped device placed inside the uterus to provide long-term contraception. There are two main types:
Copper IUD: Non-hormonal, can last up to 10 years.
Hormonal IUD (Mirena or similar): Releases hormones to prevent pregnancy and can also reduce heavy periods, lasting up to 5 years.
Why Choose a Coil (IUD)?
The IUD is one of the most effective contraceptive methods available, offering benefits such as:
1. Long-Lasting and Highly Effective Contraception
- Hormonal IUDs (e.g., Mirena) are over 99% effective and provide protection for up to 5 years.
- Copper IUDs are hormone-free and can last up to 10 years while offering the same high level of effectiveness.
- Once fitted, there’s no need to think about contraception daily, weekly, or monthly, making it ideal for busy lifestyles.
2. Low Maintenance and Hassle-Free
The coil requires minimal upkeep after fitting:
- No need to remember to take a daily pill.
- No ongoing pharmacy visits for prescriptions.
- Regular check-ups ensure it remains in place and effective.
3. Reversible and Fertility-Friendly
The coil is a completely reversible form of contraception:
- Fertility returns immediately after removal.
- It’s an excellent option for women who want to avoid long-term hormonal treatments that may delay conception after stopping.
4. Hormonal and Non-Hormonal Options
There are two main types of IUDs, allowing you to choose what works best for your body and lifestyle:
- Hormonal IUD: Releases small amounts of progestogen to prevent pregnancy and can reduce heavy periods or painful menstrual symptoms.
- Copper IUD: A hormone-free option that relies on copper to create a hostile environment for sperm, perfect for women who prefer to avoid hormones.
5. Helps with Menstrual Issues
Hormonal IUDs, like the Mirena coil, can be beneficial for women who suffer from:
- Heavy periods (menorrhagia).
- Painful cramps.
- Endometriosis or other menstrual-related conditions.
They can significantly reduce bleeding or even stop periods altogether in some women.
6. Suitable for a Wide Range of Women
The coil is suitable for:
- Women of all ages, whether or not they’ve had children.
- Those looking for long-term contraception without daily or monthly maintenance.
- Women seeking hormone-free contraception or who cannot tolerate certain hormonal birth control options.
7. Cost-Effective
While the upfront cost of fitting a coil may be higher (if going private), it’s a cost-effective option over time, lasting for years without the need for repeat prescriptions or purchases.
8. Peace of Mind
The coil offers reliable, continuous protection without needing to think about contraception. It’s ideal for women who want a “set it and forget it” solution.
9. Environmentally Friendly
Compared to disposable contraceptive methods like pills and condoms, the IUD has less environmental impact due to its long-term use and lack of packaging waste.
- Safe and Comfortable Coil Fitting in Berkshire
- Coil (IUD) Removal and Replacement Services
Why choose our Coil/ IUD Services in Newbury & Thatcham
Our boutique private health clinic has experienced GPs and supporting clinicians to carry out your appointment in a tranquil and relaxed setting. If you are considering a coil/IUD you will start with an initial consultation before scheduling a fitting appointment.
More details of our appointments are below.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss your contraceptive options and determine whether the IUD is the right choice for you.
- Fitting Appointment: Our experienced professionals will expertly fit the device, ensuring your comfort and safety.
- Follow-Up Care: We are here to answer any questions and can schedule coil check appointments if you have any concerns.
What to Expect During Your Coil (IUD) Fitting Appointment
- The procedure typically takes around 20-30 minutes.
- You may feel mild discomfort during the fitting, but this is brief.
- Our team will provide tips for aftercare and what to expect in the days following the procedure.
When Should You Have Your Coil (IUD) Checked?
You should have your coil checked if you experience symptoms or changes such as any of the following:
- Pain or Discomfort: Unusual cramping or pelvic pain.
- Strings Feel Different or Missing: If you can’t feel the coil strings, or they feel shorter or longer than usual.
- Unusual Bleeding: Heavy bleeding, spotting, or changes in your periods (especially with a copper IUD).
- Signs of Infection: Unpleasant odors, unusual discharge, fever, or severe pain may indicate an infection.
- Pregnancy Symptoms: Although rare, pregnancy can occur, and it’s essential to have the coil removed if this happens.
You do not need to have your coil/IUD fitted at Total Health West Berkshire for us to check your coil for you – it is important that if you are having any of the above symptoms that you get your coil checked to make sure it is still effective for contraception
Can you remove my coil or exchange it?
If your current coil/ IUD has reached the end of its lifespan or you wish to try another method, our clinic also provides removal and replacement services. If you are not already a patient with us and wish to have your coil exchanged then you would need to book a coil/iud consultation first.
If you want to have your coil removed but not replaced then you can book one of our coil removal appointments.
Coil/IUD Appointments
Coil/IUD Consultation – £120
An appointment to discuss your symptoms or contraceptive needs and to see whether a coil/IUD is suitable for you.
Our GP will discuss your options with you and answer any questions or concerns with you. If swabs or other tests are required before a coil can be fitted they can be carried out in this appointment at an extra cost.
After this appointment we can schedule a time for your coil to be fitted
Coil/IUD Fitting Appointment – £350
In this appointment your coil will be fitted.
The cost of the coil is included in the appointment price
Coil Check Appointment – £130
If you have any concerns about the placement of your coil or you are experiencing any pain or other symptoms we can check you coil to make sure that every thing is ok and to put your mind at rest.
You do not have to have had your coil fitted at Total Health West Berkshire to book this appointment
Coil Removal Appointment – £230
In this appointment we can remove your coil.
You do not have to have had your coil fitted at Total Health West Berkshire to book this appointment
Coil Exchange Appointment – £350
In this appointment we can remove your coil and fit a new coil. If you did not have your coil fitted at Total Health West Berkshire then you will need to book a Coil/IUD consultation before we can schedule a coil exchange appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our General Practitioner
Dr Barbara Barrie (She/Hers)
GP
Having qualified from Edinburgh University in 1989, I have worked in the NHS for 34 years, mainly as a GP Partner, but I have also had short spells employed as a Salaried GP and GP Retainer.
In addition, I have been a Macmillan GP, an Out of Hours GP working regular weekend sessions, and a GP in Palliative Medicine.
My clinical interests are Mental Health, Women’s health, and Palliative Medicine but in my day-to-day practice, I cover all aspects of primary care.
I am qualified to fit intrauterine devices (coils) for contraception, HRT, and in the management of heavy menstrual bleeding, as well as ring pessaries for management of gynaecological prolapse.
In addition, I perform steroid knee injections to help with knee pain due to arthritis.
Aside from work, I enjoy walking my 3 dogs, ski- ing, and singing in a local choir.