Private coil fitting and removal on Harley Street
Consultant-led IUD and IUS fitting at Medical Express Clinic. Consultation and fitting completed in a single appointment, with all devices kept in stock.
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Private coil fitting and removal in London
Whether you want a coil fitted for the first time, need your current device removed, or are due a replacement, we can help at any time. You do not need a referral. Every procedure is carried out by Mr Hikmat Naoum, Consultant Gynaecologist, so you are seen by a specialist who performs coil fittings and removals regularly and can handle the full procedure from start to finish in one appointment.
Coil fitting
Mr Naoum fits three types of coil at our Harley Street clinic:
- Copper coil (IUD): Hormone-free, effective for five to ten years. £550 all-inclusive.
- Hormonal coil (IUS): Hormonal, effective for up to five years. £650 all-inclusive.
- Low-dose hormonal coil (IUS): Lower-dose hormonal, effective for up to five years. £650 all-inclusive.
Each price covers the consultation, the device and the procedure. Everything happens in a single visit lasting 20 to 30 minutes.
During the consultation, Mr Naoum will review your medical history and help you decide which coil is right for you. The fitting itself is straightforward and well-tolerated. Mr Naoum passes a thin inserter through the cervix to place the coil inside the uterus. Most women feel period-like cramping that settles within a few minutes. Our clinic has ultrasound facilities on site, so if Mr Naoum needs to confirm positioning or there is any difficulty, he can check immediately rather than sending you for a separate scan.
Coil removal
If you want your coil removed, whether to become pregnant, switch contraceptive method or replace an expiring device, we can do this at any time.
Removal is quicker and simpler than fitting. Mr Naoum gently pulls on the threads and the coil slides out. Most women feel a brief cramp, and the procedure takes under a minute. In rare cases where the threads are not visible, for example if they have retracted into the cervical canal, Mr Naoum can use ultrasound to locate the coil and specialist instruments to retrieve it.
Fertility returns immediately after removal. If you do not want to become pregnant, arrange alternative contraception or use condoms for at least seven days before your appointment.
Private coil removal costs £400, including the consultation with Mr Naoum.
Combined removal and fitting
If you need your current coil replaced, we offer combined removal and fitting appointments from £700. This saves you a second visit and keeps you continuously protected.
Book combined removal & fitting
Combined appointments from £700 in a single visit with Mr Naoum.
Book Combined ServiceWhat is a coil?
A coil (also called an IUD or IUS) is a small, T-shaped device placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is a form of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), meaning it works for years without daily effort and your fertility returns as soon as it is removed. Whether you are looking for IUD fitting in London or IUS fitting, we offer both at our Harley Street clinic.
Two types are available. The copper coil (IUD) contains no hormones and works by releasing copper ions that are toxic to sperm. The hormonal coil (IUS) releases a small amount of progestogen locally into the uterus, which thins the womb lining and thickens cervical mucus.
Both are more than 99% effective when correctly fitted. Once in place, there is nothing to remember, nothing to take, and nothing that can go wrong because you forgot a pill.
At Medical Express Clinic, all coil fittings are performed by Mr Hikmat Naoum, Consultant Gynaecologist, with over 40 years of experience in obstetrics and gynaecology. He carries out every IUD and IUS procedure personally, not a nurse or GP.
Copper coil (IUD)
If you want reliable contraception without hormones, the copper coil is the simplest option available. One fitting, up to 10 years of protection, no daily pills, no hormonal side effects, and your fertility returns the moment it is removed.
The copper coil is suitable for most women, including those who have had problems with hormonal methods such as mood changes, headaches, or reduced libido.
Copper ions create an environment in the uterus that prevents sperm from reaching and fertilising an egg. It also affects the uterine lining, making implantation less likely.
The copper coil device is licensed for 10 years. It can be removed at any time if you want to become pregnant or switch methods. Fertility returns immediately.
The copper coil is the most effective form of emergency contraception available. Per FSRH guidance, it can be fitted within 5 days of unprotected intercourse. When the day of ovulation can be estimated, fitting is also possible beyond 5 days after intercourse, provided it is within 5 days of the earliest estimated ovulation date. This means the window can extend to day 19 of a regular 28-day cycle. It prevents pregnancy in over 99% of cases.
- Women who want hormone-free contraception
- Women who experience side effects from hormonal methods (mood changes, headaches, reduced libido)
- Women who want long-term protection without ongoing prescriptions
- Women needing emergency contraception
- Breastfeeding mothers
Periods may become heavier or longer in the first 3-6 cycles. This usually settles. If you already have very heavy periods, or if heavier bleeding becomes a problem, a standard hormonal coil may be a better fit; Mr Naoum can discuss both options during your appointment and switch if needed.
Copper coil device and smaller copper coil device. You do not need to source your own device.
Copper coil vs hormonal coil: which should you choose?
This is the question most women ask before their appointment. The short answer: it depends on what matters most to you.
| Feature | Copper coil (IUD) | Hormonal coil (IUS) |
|---|---|---|
| Contains hormones | No | Yes (progestogen only, local) |
| Duration | Up to 10 years | 5-6 years |
| Effect on periods | May be heavier, especially early on | Usually lighter; may stop |
| Works immediately | Yes | Yes, if fitted days 1-7 of cycle; otherwise use additional protection for 7 days |
| Emergency contraception | Yes (within 5 days of intercourse, or up to 5 days post-ovulation per FSRH) | No |
| Suitable for heavy periods | Not ideal | Yes (hormonal coil is first-line treatment for heavy periods) |
| HRT use | No | Yes (hormonal coil) |
| Return to fertility | Immediate on removal | Immediate on removal |
| Price at our clinic | £550 | £650 |
If you want to avoid hormones entirely and your periods are manageable, the copper coil is the obvious choice. It lasts longer and contains nothing that alters your hormonal balance.
If heavy or painful periods are a problem, the hormonal coil can address both contraception and period symptoms at once. Many women fitted with hormonal coil for contraception find their period problems resolve as a welcome side effect.
If you are approaching perimenopause, talk to Mr Naoum about whether a hormonal coil could form part of your HRT plan. It can remain in place while you take oestrogen separately, protecting the endometrium without needing to take a daily progestogen tablet.
Which hormonal coil is right for you?
The hormonal coil releases progestogen locally into the uterus. Unlike the contraceptive pill, the hormone acts mainly on the womb itself rather than circulating through your whole body, which is why systemic side effects are less common.
Progestogen thins the uterine lining, thickens cervical mucus to block sperm, and in some women suppresses ovulation. The combined effect makes it more than 99% effective.
The standard hormonal coil lasts up to 6 years for contraception. The low-dose hormonal coil lasts up to 5 years.
Standard Hormonal Coil (IUS)
The standard hormonal coil is the most widely used hormonal coil in the UK. It releases 20 micrograms of progestogen hormone per day initially, decreasing over time. Beyond contraception, it is frequently prescribed to manage heavy menstrual bleeding and can reduce period blood loss by up to 90% within 6 months. Many women find their periods become very light or stop altogether.
It is also licensed as the progestogen component of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) during perimenopause and menopause, where it protects the endometrium while oestrogen is taken separately.
Low-Dose Hormonal Coil (IUS)
The low-dose hormonal coil releases a lower dose of progestogen hormone (17.5 micrograms per day initially). It is physically smaller than the standard hormonal coil, which can make insertion more comfortable for women who have not had children.
It provides effective contraception for up to 5 years but is not licensed for heavy period management or HRT.
| Feature | Standard Hormonal Coil | Low-Dose Hormonal Coil |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Up to 6 years | Up to 5 years |
| Hormone dose | Higher (20mcg/day initially) | Lower (17.5mcg/day initially) |
| Effect on periods | Often significantly lighter or stopped | Usually lighter, less likely to stop |
| Heavy period treatment | Yes (licensed) | No |
| Use in HRT | Yes (licensed) | No |
| Size | Slightly larger | Slightly smaller |
| Suitable if no previous pregnancy | Yes | Yes (may be more comfortable to fit) |
| Price at our clinic | £650 | £650 |
Mr Naoum will discuss which device is most appropriate during your appointment, based on your medical history, periods, and contraceptive needs.
Private coil fitting vs NHS: what is the difference?
The coil itself is the same whether fitted privately or on the NHS. The difference is access, timing, and who performs the procedure.
| Feature | NHS | Medical Express Clinic |
|---|---|---|
| Waiting time | Varies widely; 4-12 weeks typical | Appointments available this week |
| Who fits the coil | GP, nurse, or doctor with LARC training | Consultant Gynaecologist (Mr Naoum) |
| Separate consultation | Usually yes (two appointments) | No. Consultation and fitting in one visit |
| Source own device? | Sometimes, if not stocked at surgery | No. All devices in stock |
| Ultrasound guidance | Rarely available in primary care | Available and used when clinically indicated |
| Pain relief during fitting | Varies; not always offered | Instillagel (lidocaine gel) applied as standard |
| Cost | Free | From £550 (copper) / £650 (hormonal) |
| Follow-up coil check | Via GP, may involve a wait | £250 (includes ultrasound if needed) |
The NHS provides coil fittings for free, and if you can access one promptly through your GP or local sexual health clinic, that is a reasonable option. The reason many women come to us is that they cannot get a timely appointment, their GP does not offer coil fittings, or they want a Consultant Gynaecologist rather than a GP performing the procedure. We see women every week who have waited months for an NHS fitting and have been using less reliable interim contraception while they wait.
What happens during a private coil fitting
Whether this is your first coil or you are replacing an existing one, many women come to us because they want a Consultant Gynaecologist performing the procedure, or because they have had a difficult experience elsewhere and want a calmer, more controlled environment. Whatever your reason, here is what to expect.
1. Before
No specific preparation is needed. You do not need to be on your period. If having a new coil fitted (rather than a replacement), avoid unprotected intercourse for 7 days beforehand, or the procedure can still go ahead if pregnancy can be reasonably excluded. You may take ibuprofen or paracetamol an hour before your appointment if you are concerned about discomfort.
2. The Procedure
Your appointment lasts 20-30 minutes. A brief consultation is followed by a speculum examination and coil insertion. The fitting takes only a few minutes. We apply Instillagel (a lidocaine-based anaesthetic gel) to the cervix to reduce discomfort. A nursing chaperone is present throughout.
3. After
You can return to normal activities straight away. Mild cramping or light spotting is normal for a day or two. Paracetamol or ibuprofen will manage any discomfort. We offer a coil check 6 weeks after fitting (£250) to confirm the device is correctly positioned, which includes ultrasound if clinically indicated. Most women do not need this check, but it is available for reassurance.
Contraceptive implant
The contraceptive implant is a small, flexible plastic rod (4cm long, 2mm wide) inserted just under the skin of your upper arm. It releases progestogen and prevents pregnancy for up to 3 years.
It is over 99% effective and is a good option for women who want long-acting contraception but prefer not to have an intrauterine device, or who cannot use oestrogen-containing methods. The insertion is performed under local anaesthetic and takes a few minutes. A small adhesive dressing covers the site, and bruising is common for a week or two. Removal involves a small incision under local anaesthetic.
Patient Experiences
"Excellent care"
"I had an excellent experience. The staff were very professional and made me feel comfortable. Dr. Naoum was attentive, took the time to listen to my concerns, and explained my condition in a way that was easy to understand. I am very grateful for the excellent care I received at Medical Express. I highly recommend the Clinic and the entire team to anyone in need of quality medical care."
"A 10/10 experience"
"For anyone wanting a copper coil fitting I recommend this clinic. The doctor injected anaesthetic and it was painless. Staff were friendly and nice and welcoming! 10/10 experience."
"Excellent appointment"
"Went for an IUD fitting. Was very anxious as was first time and concerned about pain. Dr was amazing as were the whole team. Would highly recommend."
"It was a great appointment"
"It was a great appointment, efficient and professional doctor. I will go again."
"I truly recommend"
"I had my coil fitted with Doctor Naoum; he was great. I truly recommend!"
"Recommend Dr Naoum"
"Recommend Dr Naoum. Caring, professional, inspires trust."
Related Services
Mr Hikmat Naoum
Gynaecology and Women's Health • GMC 3047637
"Expert consultant providing advanced gynaecological assessments and imaging interpretation. Mr Naoum has wide experience in obstetrics and gynaecology and has lectured on specialist topics internationally. Mr Naoum carries out all IUD fitting/removal procedures as well as HPV treatment for both men and women. Diagnostic ultrasound and the management of pain, or abnormal bleeding are additional specialist areas for Mr Naoum. Alongside his knowledge and skills, Mr Naoum's patients appreciate the personal and professional expertise he provides."
View Clinical ProfileTreatment Menu & Fees
Transparent pricing for all our services.
Copper coil fitting (copper coil device / smaller copper coil device)
£550Hormonal coil fitting (hormonal coil / low-dose hormonal coil)
£650Contraceptive implant fitting
£500Coil removal
£400Contraceptive implant removal
£350Combined removal and fitting
From £700Coil check (6-week follow-up)
£250Common Questions
Q.Do I need a separate consultation before fitting?
No. At Medical Express Clinic, the consultation and fitting are completed in the same appointment. There is no need for a preliminary visit.
Q.Do I need to bring my own coil?
No. We keep copper coil device, smaller copper coil device, hormonal coil, low-dose hormonal coil, and contraceptive implant in stock at the clinic. You do not need to obtain a device from a pharmacy or your GP before your visit.
Q.Is the copper coil or hormonal coil better?
Neither is universally better. The copper coil is hormone-free and lasts longer (up to 10 years). The standard or low-dose hormonal coil often reduces heavy or painful periods and lasts 5-6 years. Mr Naoum will discuss which is most suitable for you during your appointment.
Q.Can I have a coil fitted if I have never been pregnant?
Yes. Coils are safe and appropriate for women who have never had children. This is a common concern, and some women are told by other providers that coils are only suitable after pregnancy. That is outdated advice. FSRH guidance is clear that IUDs and IUS devices are appropriate for nulliparous women. The low-dose hormonal coil is slightly smaller than the standard hormonal coil, which some women find more comfortable. Mr Naoum fits coils for women of all ages and regardless of whether they have given birth.
Q.How painful is coil fitting?
Most women describe a strong period cramp lasting 10-20 seconds during insertion. It is uncomfortable but brief. We apply Instillagel (lidocaine anaesthetic gel) to the cervix before fitting at no extra charge, which numbs the area and reduces discomfort. Taking ibuprofen an hour beforehand can also help.
Q.Can the coil be used as emergency contraception?
The copper coil is the most effective form of emergency contraception. Per FSRH guidance, it can be fitted within 5 days of unprotected intercourse, or up to 5 days after the earliest estimated ovulation date (which can extend the window further, depending on your cycle). Contact us to arrange an appointment as soon as possible.
Q.Will my partner feel the coil during sex?
No. The threads are trimmed short so they sit at the entrance to the cervix. Very occasionally, a partner may notice the threads, in which case they can be trimmed further at a follow-up visit.
Q.Can I use a coil while breastfeeding?
Yes. Both copper and hormonal coils are safe to use while breastfeeding. The small amount of progestogen released by the hormonal coil does not affect milk production or quality.
Q.How soon can I get pregnant after coil removal?
Fertility returns immediately. Some women conceive within their first cycle after removal.
Q.What if my coil needs removing and replacing?
We offer combined removal and fitting appointments from £700, so you can have both procedures done in a single visit. This is common when a coil reaches its expiry date, or if you want to switch from one type to another.
