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Contraception - Management
Replacing and removing an levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (IUS)

For how long can a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (IUS) be left in place?

  • The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (IUS) may be left in place for up to 5 years.
  • However, women who are aged 45 or more years at the time of IUS insertion may retain the device until they no longer require contraception, even if this is beyond the duration of the UK Marketing Authorisation.

In depth

When can a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (IUS) be removed?

  • If the woman wishes to conceive, the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (IUS) can be removed at any time.
  • If the woman does not want to become pregnant, remove the device when the woman is not at risk of becoming pregnant, and ensure unbroken contraceptive cover.
  • If the device is to be exchanged for a new IUS, the woman should avoid intercourse or use barrier contraception for the 7 days prior to the procedure in case reinsertion fails.
  • If the device is to be changed for a hormonal contraceptive method and the woman is amenorrhoeic, the new method should be used for sufficient time for contraceptive protection to be established before removal of the IUS. Alternatively, if the hormonal contraceptive is started after the removal of IUS, she will need to abstain from sex or use additional contraceptive protection (e.g. condoms) until contraceptive protection is established.
  • If the device is to be changed for a copper intrauterine device (IUD), no additional contraceptive protection is required if the copper IUD is inserted immediately after removing the IUS.

In depth

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