simple coil Removal

Suitable if:

• Your coil threads are visible

• You have previously been told removal should be straightforward

What to expect:

• We remove all uterine coils, including copper and hormonal coils

• The appointment usually takes up to 20 minutes, including explanation of the procedure

• The doctor will talk you through the process and ask you to sign a consent form

• Removal is usually quick and straightforward when threads are visible

• Special instruments (coil retrievers of fine forceps) will be used

A simple coil removal appointment is £150

complex coil removal

Suitable if:

• Your coil threads are not visible

• You have previously been told removal may be difficult

What to expect:

• The appointment usually takes 40 minutes, including explanation of the procedure

• Dr Anita Maini is experienced in removing coils when the strings are no longer visible

• An ultrasound scan can be used to confirm the coil is in place

• Special instruments (coil retrievers or find forceps) will be used

• Local anaesthetic can be given if required to improve comfort

Please note: In some cases, removal may not be possible on the day, but every effort will be made to remove the coil safely.

A complex coil removal appointment is £250

This process is similar to having a smear or the coil inserted. A device called a speculum is used to see the cervix. The strings of the coil need to be visible in order for the doctor to pull the coil out with a coil removal device.

It is generally not painful, but can be a little uncomfortable. For a simple coil removal, anaesthetic is typically not required and the coil usually comes away freely. The doctor will use lots of gel to make the removal of the coil less uncomfortable.

You may experience some bleeding afterwards for a few days but this should settle. We will give you a sanitary pad to wear afterwards.

If anything abnormal is seen during the procedure or viewing the cervix the doctor will explain this to you and discuss what to do next.

Common findings are infection or a polyp or ectropian of the cervix.

When is the best time to remove my coil?

The coil can be removed at any time. If you are not getting a replacement coil and you don’t want to get pregnancy, you must use another method of contraception, such as condoms, for 7 days before you have the coil removed. This is to stop the sperm getting into your body. As soon as coil is taken out, your normal fertility should return.

How do I check my coil is in place?

After fitting the coil the doctor will show you how to feel for the threads - they lie at your cervix. They do not hang outside like tampon strings and your partner should not feel them.

How often should my coil be checked?

You should aim to check the threads of your coil every month. If you check and cannot feel the threads, you need to see a doctor and assume you could be at risk of pregnancy. Likewise, if your bleeding pattern changes, a thread check is advisable to ensure the coil is in the right place.

What if the doctor cannot see the strings of my coil, can I still have it removed?

Sometimes the strings are not visible when the doctor examines your cervix. The coil removal will then be attempted using another device called a coil string retriever or another device that is inserted into the womb.

In a small number of cases where the coil strings are not visible, the other methods to remove it maybe unsuccessful, this can be because the coil is no longer in your womb or the procedure maybe be too painful to continue.

If we cannot remove the coil, an appointment fee of £120 will be charged and we will make a referral to gynaecology. Note, a referral fee is still applicable at £30.

The gynaecologist may need to carry out an ultrasound examination to locate the coil within the womb and then they will use another method for retrieval.