The Coil (IUD) or Mirena (IUS)

There are two very effective intrauterine contraceptives available, the Coil or Copper T IUD and the Mirena or LNG-IUS. While both are small devices, which is placed into the uterine cavity, to prevent pregnancy there are notable differences between the two. The Coil is shaped like a T and on its arms is some copper. This is slowly introduced to the uterine cavity and prevents the sperm from travelling up through the uterus. It also alter the secretions in the cervix, which creates a barrier for the sperm and also affect the womb lining to make it less receptive of an egg.

Reduces menstrual cramps

The Mirena is quite different to the Coil as it not only performs the functions of a contraceptive device but also contains the hormone progestogen, which helps ease monthly periods. But unlike the coil that can last more than five years and up to ten, the IUS can last for up to five years only and must be changed.