Intrauterine device (IUD) or copper coil, intrauterine system (IUS) or hormonal coil and implant information

When will my implant begin working for contraception?

• Use additional contraception such as condoms for seven days unless otherwise advised by your nurse or doctor (depends on the timing of fitting).

After-care advice

• You will have a bandage over the site where the implant has been fit.
• Please keep this clean and dry and keep it in place for 24 hours (48 hours if this was a
• Removal and refit).
• This will help prevent infection and minimise bruising and swelling.
• When you remove the bandage there may be small plaster strips (steristrips)
• Please leave these in place for 5 to 7days.

Bleeding pattern

• The most common side effect of the implant is irregular bleeding.
• Whilst this bleeding is not harmful, it can be a nuisance.
• If you are concerned please make an appointment.
• We will assess you to make sure there is no other reason for the bleeding and offer
• medication to help control it.

Follow up

• Bruising is common but if the arm is very red, swollen, itchy or painful please seek
• medical advice.
• Routine follow up is not required but we encourage you to contact us if you have any

When will my fertility return after removal?

• Fertility can return very rapidly after your implant has been removed.
• You will need to use alternative contraception straight away to avoid pregnancy.
• Please discuss your options for contraception with your doctor or nurse.

After-care advice

• You will have a bandage over the site where the implant has been removed.
• Please keep this clean and dry and keep it in place for 48 hours.
• This will help prevent infection and minimise bruising and swelling.
• When you remove the bandage there will be small plaster strips (steristrips)
• Please leave these in place for 5-7days.
• Bruising is common but if the arm is very red, swollen, itchy or painful please seek
• medical advice

• NHS: IUD (intrauterine device) or copper coil
• NHS: IUS (intrauterine system) or hormonal coil