
No waiting list
With most patients seen within 7 days
Pain relief as standard
From local anaesthetic gel to gas & air
Specialists & friendly clinicians
With patients travelling from across the country
About the procedure
Local anaesthetic
Yes, we provide local anaesthetic gel, gas & air and cervical block
Length of appointments
Approx. 30 minutes in total
Recovery & aftercare
You can continue with your day as normal, without needing to take any time off.
Locations
Fees
Routine Coil Removal£150
Ultrasound Guided Coil Removal£350
An ultrasound guided coil (also known as a complex coil removal) is a safe procedure when a routine coil removal has not succeeded (e.g. due to a coil with missing threads) and rarely poses complications.
We will begin by discussing any questions and concerns that you may have about the procedure, methods of pain relief and your contraceptive methods.
Once we have completed the consultation element of the appointment, we will then ask you to undress (in private) and lie down on the couch.
Once you’re ready and comfortable, we will begin by inserting the ultrasound probe into your vagina to locate the position of your coil. Once we have located the coil, we will give you the pain relief method of your choice.
In the event that no coil can be located on the ultrasound, we will consider the possibility of the coil having been expelled already (and this can go unnoticed) or referral for an MRI.
We will then proceed to retrieve the coil using a longer pair of forceps (only used in complex coil removals). Some clinicians can ask you to cough as they gently pull on the threads and remove the device. This will then be disposed of safely.
Once the coil has been retrieved, you may then re-dress and we’ll make sure you’re feeling alright. Please take this time to ask us any further questions before the end of your appointment.
Methods of Pain Relief
The Process
The consultation and procedure happen in one appointment, as long as it’s safe to do so.
Questionnaire
In order to be most prepared and leave plenty of time for discussion and procedure, we will ask you to fill out a simple questionnaire.
Consultation
In the consultation, we will discuss any questions that we may have. Once you are comfortable, we will then proceed to remove the coil in the same appointment.
Ultrasound
We will then conduct an ultrasound scan to confirm the position of your coil before we proceed to retrieve it.
Procedure
Once we have confirmed the position of the coil with the ultrasound scan, we will then proceed to remove it.
Aftercare discussion
After your coil has been removed, we will discuss any next steps (including a new method of contraception).
Aftercare
If you’ve just had an ultrasound guided coil removed by us and are seeking advice on recovery and aftercare, we’ve got the information for you just here.
General
What is an 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.
Can I have an ultrasound guided coil removal if I am on my period?
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).
Can I have an ultrasound guided coil removal if I think I am pregnant?
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.
What are the possible complications of having an ultrasound guided coil removal?
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
When should I book my ultrasound guided coil removal?
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
Before the appointment
How can I prepare for my ultrasound guided coil removal?
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.
Will I need to take time off for my ultrasound guided coil removal?
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.
Can I bring someone with me?
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.
What travel arrangements should I make for after the ultrasound guided coil removal?
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.
During the appointment
How does the ultrasound guided coil removal work?
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.
Does the ultrasound guided coil removal hurt?
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.
Can I have another form of contraception after my ultrasound guided coil removal?
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.
Can I have an STI test during my appointment?
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.
Can I see my coil after the ultrasound guided coil removal?
Absolutely. This option is entirely yours.
What happens if my ultrasound guided coil removal does not go as planned?
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.
Do I need to bring feminine hygiene products for use after the ultrasound guided coil removal?
No, we have pads at the clinic and will supply you with one after your procedure.
After the appointment
What should I expect after my ultrasound guided coil removal?
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.
Will I require a follow up appointment after my ultrasound guided coil removal?
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).
How soon after my ultrasound guided coil removal can I have sex?
As long as you are comfortable, you can have sex immediately after your ultrasound guided coil removal.
How soon after my ultrasound guided coil removal will I become fertile?
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.
When should I expect my periods to return after my ultrasound guided coil removal?
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.
Fees
Please note that methods of pain relief (where medically appropriate) are included in the fee.
Copper coil fitting/replacement£350
Hormonal coil fitting/replacement£450
GyneFix coil fitting (inc. 1x ultrasound at 8 weeks)£600
Coil check (ultrasound guided)£150
Coil removal (ultrasound guided)£350
Implant fitting/replacement (routine)£300
For international patients with two rods, we charge £250.
Implant removal (ultrasound guided)£475
Vasectomy£750
Health Insurance
Find out if you can claim your visit
Don’t wait months.
Page reviewed by Dr Praveen Jayadeva
Last reviewed date: 1 April 2022
Next review due: 1 April 2025
Whilst this content is written and reviewed by sexual health specialists, it is for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.
References & Further Reading
- Contraception: Safe and cost-effective ultrasound guided removal of retained intrauterine device: our experience
- Contraception: Pregnancy outcomes with an IUD in situ: a systematic review
- Gynecol Minim Invasive Therapy: Hysteroscopic-guided Removal of Retained Intrauterine Device: Experience at an Academic Tertiary Hospital
- Contraception: Removal of the LNG IUD when strings are not visible: a case series
- Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology: In-Office Histeroscopic Removal of Intrauterine Device (IUD) during Early Pregnacy. Step By Step
- Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology: Lost intrauterine devices during pregnancy: maternal and fetal outcome after ultrasound‐guided extraction. An analysis of 82 cases
- Contraception: A pilot clinical trial of ultrasound-guided postplacental insertion of a levonorgestrel intrauterine device – ScienceDirect
- Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine: Ultrasound‐Guided Extraction of Intrauterine Devices With Nonvisible Threads: 254 Consecutive Cases: An Effective, Noninvasive Technique
- Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology: In-office Hysteroscopic Extraction of Intrauterine Devices in Pregnant Patients Who Underwent Prior Ultrasound-guided Extraction Failure
- Korean Journal of Gynecologic Endoscopy and Minimally Invasive Surgery: A case of successful delivery after ultrasound guided hysteroscopic removal of intrauterine device with missing tail during early pregnancy | Korean Journal of Gynecologic Endoscopy and Minimally Invasive Surgery
- CRSLS: Ultrasound-Guided Hysteroscopic Removal of IUD with Missing Tails in a 15-Weeks’ Pregnant Woman
- American Journal of Perinatology: Removal of Retained Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices in Pregnancy
- BMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health: Ultrasound-guided retrieval of lost intrauterine devices using very fine grasping forceps: a case series
- Obstetrics and Gynecology International: An Early Abdominal Wall Ectopic Pregnancy Successfully Treated with Ultrasound Guided Intralesional Methotrexate: A Case Report
- Contraception: Controversies in family planning: desired pregnancy, IUD in situ and no strings visible
- American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology: Randomized controlled trial of ultrasound-guided intrauterine device insertion