Coil removal form

We can’t remove the coil if you have had unprotected sex in the last 7 days, as there will be a risk of pregnancy, even if you are having a new one fitted.

Do not have sex for 7 days before you wish to remove or change your coil. You will be asked about this on the day of your appointment.

A female GP will remove the coil but if you would like a nurse to chaperone the GP please let us know in advance or at the time.

• You may need to have a review before the coil removal to check it is still there, often the threads are visible but you can’t feel them, a nurse or GP can check this for you.
• You will also need to do a pregnancy test and use an alternative form of contraception while we are waiting for a scan, until we know the coil is still in the womb.
• Pregnancy tests can be bought from any chemist. Please contact your GP If your pregnancy test Is positive - we would need to organise an urgent scan to rule out an ectopic pregnancy.

• In this case coil removal is usually very straightforward.
• A plastic speculum is placed in the vagina so the cervix, neck of the womb, can be seen.
• The threads are then gently pulled to remove the coil.
• It can give momentary discomfort, like period pain, but it usually takes less than a few minutes for the whole procedure.
• Occasionally we can’t take the coil out in which case we would refer you to the local contraception hub.
• You may wish to take some paracetamol or ibuprofen in case you get some aching or bleeding afterwards, this is normal.
• If you get strong pain or bleeding please call the surgery or 111.
• If you would like a coil refitted please complete the ‘Thinking of having a coil fitted’ on our website.
• Pregnancy is possible as soon as the coil is removed.