Contraception: coil and implant advice

What to do before your coil appointment, and how long a Mirena coil and a contraceptive implant now last.

Before your coil (IUD) appointment#

• If you are using contraception such as pills/patches/rings/depo you need to ensure 100% correct use until the day of coil insertion.
• If you are not using a hormonal method of contraception or your IUD has expired, please ensure you are using condoms from beginning to end of sex for 3 weeks prior to coil appointment.
• If you currently have an IUD and it is still in date, please ensure you are using condoms from beginning to end of sex for 7 days prior to your appointment.

We are unable to insert, remove or replace a coil if there is a risk of pregnancy.

Mirena coil: now 8 years#

If you have a Mirena hormonal coil it is now safe to continue to keep for 8 years for contraception. This is due to the drug license change in early 2024.

Read the full statement: Choosing wisely patient recommendations.

Implant: now 5 years#

We’re pleased to share that the contraceptive implant (Nexplanon®) is now licensed for up to 5 years of use in the UK (previously 3 years).

This means:

• If you already have an implant, it will now remain effective for longer
• It continues to provide very reliable contraception during this time
• No new safety concerns have been identified

What you should do#

• There is no need to have your implant replaced before 5 years unless you are experiencing undesirable side effects.
• If you’re unsure when your implant was fitted, or have questions, contact our service.

Read the full statement: CoSRH CEU Statement Nexplanon.