The Coil/IUD

Please Note: The recommeded duration of use for Mirena, Levosert and Benilexa has recently changed to 8 years. Therefore if you are currently using Mirena, Levosert or Benilexa for contraception you can now continue with this for up to 8 years. However, if you are using it as part of your HRT you still need to have it changed at 5 years. If you are using it for bleeding control you can keep it for 6 years, or longer if it is still helping your symptoms. This new advice only applies to Mirena, Levosert and Benilexa. If you have a different 52mg hormonal IUD you should still have it changed at the recommended time.

Drop-In LARC+ Clinic at Chalmers Centre

Please be aware that following feedback from patients, we will be trialling a new arrival process for the LARC+ drop-in clinic at Chalmers Centre starting from Tuesday 11th November 2025. When you arrive for this clinic you will be asked to join a queue at the main entrance to the building. Tickets will be issued in order of arrival starting from 4.15pm. Please do not arrive before 4.15pm. If you have any additional needs that may affect your ability to queue please let staff know and we will be happy to assist you.

We offer a weekly drop-in clinic for routine IUD (Coil) and implant fittings every Tuesday evening at the Chalmers Centre.

Clinic Hours: 4.45 PM – 7.30pm
Ticket Distribution: 4.15 PM – 6.00pm (Please arrive between these times)
Important: Please do not arrive before 4.15pm, as you may be asked to wait outside.

How It Works:

IUD Fitting: If you’re interested in getting an IUD fitted, make sure to read all the information below before attending the clinic.
Eligibility: This clinic is for routine IUD/Implants only. IUD fitting is only available to those who live in the Lothian area. Your postcode must start with EH.

We aim to make the process as simple and efficient as possible, so please follow the guidelines for a smooth visit.

What are coils/IUDs?

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) (sometimes known as coils) are small T shaped devices that are fitted to sit inside the uterus (womb). They contain either copper or a hormone called progestogen. They are very good at stopping you from getting pregnant, and the hormone IUD can also make your periods lighter or stop them altogether. Take a look at our film, copper IUD and hormonal IUD articles and Frequently Asked Questions for more details. If you would like to have an IUD fitted then please read all the information on this page.

_{This video is intended for use by NHS Lothian only and footage is not to be used, in full or part, or reproduced without permission from NHS Lothian.}

Click here to read a transcript of the video.

Where can I have the coil/IUD fitted?

Your GP may fit, change and/or remove IUDs. You can also have your IUD fitted or changed with us, either at Chalmers Centre or one of our local clinics. If you are having problems with your IUD, or just want an IUD removed then you should contact you GP in the first instance. If there is a problem or they cannot help then they may suggest you are seen in one of our clinics.

Appointments for implant and IUD insertion/removal may also be available at your local GP practice. Barclays + are also offering this service to patients across Lothian.

How can I book an IUD fitting or change with Lothian Sexual Health?

Please take a minute to read the following information before you book your appointment. We also suggest you look at our short film, leaflet’s and FAQs first.

You can have an IUD fitted or changed at any IUD clinic appointment.
If you only need your existing IUD removed or are having problems with your IUD, please contact your GP in the first instance.
We may not be able to fit your IUD if we think you are at risk of pregnancy. See the next section for more information.
Keeping an IUD or an implant for longer than they are licensed is not recommended and you should start another contraceptive method such as condoms or the progestogen only pill as soon as your IUD or implant goes out of date.

We can usually change your IUD even if the threads are not visible but sometimes we can’t. If we can’t remove your IUD then we will refer you to a specialist clinic. We might also arrange for you to have an ultrasound scan and/or Xray.
It is possible to fit an IUD when you are on your period, so you do not need to cancel or rebook for this reason.

To book an IUD fitting or change at Chalmers Centre follow this Book Appointment link. If there are no appointments available it is likely that they have already been filled. Please try again another day as more appointments are opened regularly. Alternatively you can attend our LARC+ drop-in clinic on a Tuesday evening (see info above).

How should I prepare for my IUD fitting or change?

In the month before your appointment:

Please watch our short film and read the information on this webpage, even if you have had an IUD fitted before. You might also find our FAQs useful. You can still ask us questions when you come to your appointment.

We are unable to fit an IUD if there is any risk of pregnancy, therefore it is important you use another method of contraception until your appointment.

If you are not currently using contraception:

Use condoms (or do not have sex) until your IUD appointment
If you attend for an IUD fit and have had condomless sex since your last period, we may not be able to fit your IUD.
If you attend for an IUD fit and have had condomless sex in the 3 weeks prior to your appointment, we may not be able to fit your IUD.

If you are currently using contraception correctly (e.g. condoms, pills, patch, ring, injection, implant):

Continue to use this until your appointment
You may also need to continue using this contraception for 7 days after your IUD fit, but the clinician who fits your IUD will give you further information at your appointment.

If you currently have an IUD in place and are attending for an IUD change (removal and replacement):

In the 7 days prior to your appointment, either use condoms or do not have sex

If you are currently using an expired method of contraception (e.g. implant or IUD after the date you were advised to have it changed):

Use condoms (or do not have sex) until your IUD insertion appointment

If you have had any unprotected sex in the 3 weeks prior to your appointment, we may not be able to fit your IUD

On the day of your appointment

On the day of your appointment we suggest you;

Have breakfast or lunch before you come.
Take painkillers eg. paracetamol or ibuprofen (if suitable) 1 hour before your appointment.
Talk to us if you have any worries or concerns. Most people who want an IUD manage to have it fitted. However, some people find having an IUD fitted especially difficult, such as those who have experienced sexual assault or trauma. We will always treat you with respect and we will always stop if you are sore or upset. We encourage you to talk to us about your concerns or worries when you come to see us (or you / your GP can contact us in advance) as there are often things we can do to make the procedure more comfortable for you.
Bring something to keep you occupied. For example, some people like to listen to music on their phone during the procedure.
Think about how you are getting home. Some people can experience cramps or occasionally feel unwell after an IUD fitting. You may want to have someone to accompany you home.

After your appointment

We will give you an information leaflet after you have your IUD fitted but it might be helpful to know a few things just now. After you have an IUD fitted you;

May need painkillers such as paracetamol and/or ibuprofen for pain. You might also want to take it easy for the rest day. Some people find hot water bottles helpful for cramps.
Don’t use tampons or menstrual cups for the first 3-4 weeks .Sanitary pads are fine.
Check your threads after 4-6 weeks by placing one or two fingers gently inside the vagina. If you are unable to feel them you should contact your GP surgery who will be able to help.
Avoid sex or use condoms or other contraception for 7 days after having a hormone IUD fitted.