Ultrasound Guided Coil Removal

Usually the coil threads are visible outside the neck of the womb. The threads are grasped and pulled out. However, in some cases this is not easily possible and you will need an ultrasound machine to locate and remove the coil.

If you have an expired coil and you are on your period, you can still safely have an ultrasound guided coil removal (as long as you are comfortable).

Yes. It is safe to have an ultrasound guided coil removal if you are pregnant. Ideally, we would recommend having it removed as soon as you find out.

There is little difference in complications between an ultrasound guided coil removal and a routine ultrasound guided coil removal. This includes:

• discomfort, soreness and bleeding
• unable to remove the coil

A coil can be removed at any time for multiple reasons.These may include, but are not limited to:

• Your coil has expired
• You’re experiencing side effects
• You want to try another method of contraception
• You no longer need a method of contraception
• You want to get pregnant

We recommend abstaining from sexual contact 7 days prior to you ultrasound guided coil removal if you are not looking to conceive. Otherwise there is no need for any additional precautions or abstinence.

Most patients do not need any time off work after the procedure. However, it is advised to rest immediately afterwards, avoid strenuous activity and avoid menstrual cups for up to 6 weeks after the procedure.

Yes. You can bring your partner, friend or family member to your appointment.

However, if you feel that you would rather not bring someone to the appointment, rest assured that our staff are here to support you and make you comfortable in any way possible. Clarewell Clinics is a safe space.

You do not need to make any special travel arrangements for after your appointment. However, if you feel that you may wish for someone to drive/accompany you home, then you will need to make arrangements accordingly.

We begin by first scanning the uterus to confirm the position of the coil. Once we have confirmed the location of the coil, we will use specialist instruments to enter the uterus (whilst using local anaesthesia) and attempt to remove the coil.

It can be mildly painful to have the coil inserted or removed. Our specialists will walk you through what to expect and how to be prepared during the consultation. You may ask any questions you may have and then discuss ways in which to make the procedure more comfortable.

We also offer a local anaesthetic which is administered in a tube and is a very clear jelly like substance. Whilst this does not guarantee the procedure will be pain free, it can help to reduce some of the discomfort.

Whilst it can be uncomfortable to have your coil removed, we try to do our best to make it as smooth as possible.

We also use different methods of analgesia to make the removal process more comfortable. You can choose from local anaesthetic spray, local anaesthetic gel or entonox (gas and air). All of this will be discussed with you before we proceed with the procedure.

This includes offering you highly experienced clinicians in the field of Sexual & Reproductive Health and a combination of local anaesthesia.

Yes. We can offer you an implant fitting, copper coil fitting or hormonal coil fitting in your appointment.

If you are seeking pills or patches, we will offer you a private prescription which you can take to your local pharmacist.

Absolutely. Please request this at the time of booking so that we may book you an extended appointment.

For more information about our STI tests, please visit this page: https://www.clarewellclinics.co.uk/sexual-health-clinic.

Absolutely. This option is entirely yours.

Although every effort will be given to remove the coil, it may not always be possible and you may require a referral to a Gynaecologist so that this procedure can be performed using hysteroscopy.

This is a possibility that we will discuss with you before we carry out the scan.

No, we have pads at the clinic and will supply you with one after your procedure.

Some women may feel dizzy, faint, or light headed immediately after the procedure. It is advised to stay lying down until these symptoms have passed.

If you feel unwell and have pain in your lower abdomen, with a high temperature or a smelly discharge from your vagina, this may be a sign of infection, so please don’t hesitate to contact us, or your local healthcare provider.

You may experience period-like pains and it is not uncommon to bleed for a couple of days afterwards. Painkillers such as paracetamol and a hot water bottle usually help to alleviate this.

If you are particularly prone to faint after a medical procedure/in a clinical setting, please let us know when booking your appointment.

Rarely patients can develop an infection after having their coil removed. If you are experiencing unusual pain, strong smelling discharge, have a fever or are experiencing any other symptoms indicative of an infection, please seek medical advice or visit your local GUM clinic.

A follow up appointment is not usually required. If you have any questions after your procedure, you can contact our receptionists and they will arrange a follow up call for you.

In the event that you would like a follow up appointment, we can then offer it to you (please note that we do charge for this service).

As long as you are comfortable, you can have sex immediately after your ultrasound guided coil removal.

Your fertility will return as soon as your coil is removed. Hence, it is essential to have another method of contraception in place if you are not planning to convenience.

Your periods may return relatively quickly or after a few months – it can vary from person to person. You may also experience irregular periods for a few months after the removal.