The non-hormonal coil as emergency contraception
The non-hormonal coil is a small T-shaped piece of copper and plastic. It sits in the womb and works as a contraceptive for up to 10 years.
If you get it fitted within 5 days after unprotected sex, or within 5 days of your earliest predicted date of ovulation, then it’s over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy and the most effective emergency contraception.
As you need to have it fitted by a doctor or a nurse practitioner with specialist training, it’s more complicated to arrange than simply ordering the emergency contraceptive pill.
But a big benefit is that it can be left in place to provide ongoing contraception.
How to get the coil fitted
make an appointment with your doctor - find a local GP in the UK
or make an appointment at your local sexual health clinic
How does the coil work as an emergency contraceptive?
The non-hormonal coil works locally in the womb. It creates a very mild inflammatory reaction in the area. This is enough to stop sperm and eggs from surviving. It also stops eggs from implanting.
When can you use the non-hormonal coil as emergency contraception?
5 days after unprotected sex – you’ll need to note the date you had sex and be sure to get one fitted in the following 5 days
up to 5 days after your earliest predicted date of ovulation – work out your earliest predicted date of ovulation
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