Methods of Pain Relief for Coil Procedures

How does it work?

A local anaesthetic (xylocaine 10mg) is sprayed onto the surface of the cervix before the procedure.

How long does it take to work?

In most cases numbing is instant, but can sometimes take upto 5 minutes to work.

How effective is it?

Studies have shown that numbing spray has proven to reduce insertion-related pain by approximately 35%.

How long does it take to wear off?

Approx. between 1 – 3 hours

Are there any side effects?

Common side effects are mild burning or itching where the medicine is applied – more serious side effects can occur but are uncommon, these can be discussed further with your clinician.

Is this method for me?

This method is a quick, simple, and effective and is sprayed directly onto the cervix – this method should not be used if you are allergic to lidocaine or any other anaesthetics in the same class.

Can it be used with other methods?

Gas & Air and Numbing gel

How does it work?

This is a form of local anaesthesia injected into the the cervix to temporarily block the nerves in the area to reduce pain.

How long does it take to work?

The method should work as soon as it is applied to the cervix.

How effective is it?

This is an effective form of pain relief. Studies have shown that coil fittings were found to be 24% less painful with a cervical block, and that 78.1% of women that received this method of pain relief would recommend it to a friend.

How long does it take to wear off?

Approx. between 1 – 2 hours.

Are there any side effects?

Common side effects include are numbness, nausea and dizziness. There are less common more serious side effects which can be discussed with your clinician.

Is this method for me?

The application of this method can feel cold/warm when inserted into the uterus, along with a slight sting. This method should not be used if you are allergic to lidocaine or any other anaesthetics in the same class.

Can it be used with other methods?

Numbing gel and Gas & Air

How does it work?

An applicator is used to apply the gel in your cervix and womb.

How long does it take to work?

The numbing can take approx. 5-10 minutes after its application.

How effective is it?

This is a limited form of pain relief. Studies have shown that numbing gel reduces pain by approximately 4% for coil insertion. The gel is an effective antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection and is effective in relaxing the cervix and providing lubrication.

How long does it take to wear off?

Approx. 30 – 60 minutes

Are there any side effects?

Common side effects are mild burning or itching where the medicine is applied – more serious side effects can occur but are uncommon.

Is this method for me?

The application of this method is painless. However, sometimes it can feel cold/warm when inserted into the uterus. This method should not be used if you are allergic to lidocaine or any other anaesthetics in the same class.

Can it be used with other methods?

Cervical block, Gas & Air

How does it work?

Penthrox (Methoxyflurane) is a self managed inhalational form of pain relief. It is simple to use and doesn’t require additional tubing or gas bottles. The patient manages their own amount of pain relief, stronger pain relief can be achieved by covering the diluter hole, if required.

How long does it take to work?

The effects of Penthrox can be felt after 6-10 breaths but can take up to fifteen minutes to obtain the greatest effect.

How effective is it?

According to the STOP! trial, Penthrox proved highly effective in treating acute pain for patients with minor injuries. Both patients and healthcare professionals rated Penthrox favourably, with over 80% of cases in the Penthrox group being assessed as excellent, very good, or good.

How long does it take to wear off?

As an inhalational method, the effects of Penthrox lasts for a few minutes. Once inhalation has stopped, the effects are out of the system.

Are there any side effects?

Common side effects of Penthrox include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, feeling of extreme happiness, feeling drunk, taste disturbance, and coughing.

Common and rare side effects will be explained before use.

Is this method for me?

This method of pain relief is suitable for most individuals, except for those who:

• Are under 18 years of age
• Have lung or respiratory impairment
• Have liver or kidney impairment
• Have cardiovascular instability
• Are allergic to Methoxyflurane, any fluorinated anaesthetic, or any of the excipients
• Have a history of or genetic susceptibility to Malignant Hyperthermia or adverse reactions to inhaled anaesthetics in either the patient or relatives
• Are experiencing reduced consciousness from drugs, alcohol, or head injury
• Are using enzyme-inducing medications such as alcohol, isoniazid, phenobarbital, rifampicin, carbamazepine, efavirenz, or nevirapine
• Are taking antibiotics with known nephrotoxic effects such as tetracycline, gentamicin, colistin, polymyxin B, or amphotericin B
• Have used Penthrox in the past week exceeding the maximum dose of 15mls.

Can it be used with other methods?

Numbing spray, Numbing gel, Cervical block

Which pain relief method is best?

This depends on a number of factors unique to you. Your clinician will be able to help you make an informed decision about the best form of pain relief for you based on your individual circumstances.

Will the procedure be completely painless?

We cannot guarantee that the procedure will be completely painless as everyone has a different pain tolerance – however we can assure you that we will do everything we can to make the procedure as comfortable as possible for you.

What happens if I cannot handle the pain?

You are free to stop the procedure at any time. Our clinicians will guide you through the entire procedure and encourage you to be completely open with them about how you feel – open and honest communication will lead to the best experience for you, and our clinicians are there to support you.

Can I bring someone with me?

You are free to bring a partner, friend, or family member with you for support – we want this experience to be as comfortable as possible for you. Our clinicians work together with assistants/chaperones, so there will always be someone to support you.