Coils

What is a coil/IUD?

There are two types of IUDs:

• Copper IUD
• Hormonal IUD

Both types are made of soft plastic and shaped like a T, with a thread attached to the long end. Both are highly effective contraceptive methods and can be used by all women, including those who are breastfeeding.

It is not recommended to use a menstrual cup while you have an IUD, as suction may dislodge the device.

Inserting and removing a coil/IUD

The coil/IUD is inserted into the uterus by a doctor, public health nurse, or midwife. It is recommended to insert the coil/ IUD within the first week after your period begins. Many people experience some discomfort or pain during insertion. To reduce discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain relief about an hour beforehand.

Removal must also be done by a healthcare provider. Most people find that removal is painless.

Hormonal coil

The hormonal coil is the most commonly used type and is a very effective method of contraception. If you have heavy menstrual bleeding, a hormonal IUD may be especially recommended. It contains the hormone progestin (not estrogen), which is gradually released and affects the uterine environment locally. The hormone is also absorbed into the bloodstream through the uterine lining.

Hormonal coils available in Norway include:

• Mirena (in Norwegian, felleskatalogen.no)
• Levosert (in Norwegian, felleskatalogen.no)
• Jaydess (in Norwegian, felleskatalogen.no)
• Kyleena (in Norwegian, felleskatalogen.no)

Mirena and Levosert contain the same amount of hormone and are the same size. Jaydess and Kyleena are slightly smaller and release a lower dose of hormone.

The hormonal IUD costs around NOK 1,300, and there may be an additional cost for insertion.

Side effects

Hormonal IUDs generally cause few side effects. Irregular bleeding—such as spotting, light bleeding, or unpredictable bleeding—is common during the first few months. These issues often improve after 3–6 months. After one year of use, some women experience little or no menstrual bleeding.

Hormonal IUDs do not increase the risk of blood clots and are safe for most women.

Copper IUD

The copper IUD has a copper wire wound around it. It works by preventing sperm from fertilizing an egg and reducing the likelihood of a fertilized egg implanting in the uterus.

The copper IUD does not contain hormones and can remain in place for up to five years before needing replacement or removal.

It costs less than the hormonal IUD and can be purchased without a prescription. However, a doctor, midwife, or public health nurse must insert it. The price varies between pharmacies, ranging from approximately NOK 550 to 800.

Emergency contraception

The copper IUD is the most effective emergency contraceptive. It can be inserted up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex. It can be removed after 7 days or kept in place as long-term contraception for up to five years.

Side effects

The copper IUD may not be ideal for those with heavy periods or menstrual pain. It may cause heavier bleeding, stronger menstrual cramps, increased vaginal discharge, and abdominal or back pain.

Copper ball and copper rod

There are also non-traditional copper IUDs, such as the copper ball (with copper beads) and copper rod. These are currently rarely used in Norway. Due to limited experience, there is less information on how effective they are in preventing pregnancy and whether they cause fewer side effects than the traditional T-shaped copper IUD.

Find the right contraception

All contraceptive methods offer good protection against pregnancy, but they differ in how they are used and in their side effects.

Illustration: Buecax/Mostphotos