ABSTRACT
Hormonal and intrauterine contraception is available through dedicated community contraception and sexual health clinics, Departments of Sexual Health within hospitals and general practice surgeries. The Intrauterine device (IUD) is a contraceptive choice for women who have not had children. It can also be fitted as a form of emergency contraception up to 5 days after unprotected sex. It may be more difficult to fit an IUD in a cervix that has not been stretched through childbirth. The IUD is a small plastic T-shaped device with thin copper wire wrapped around it. It remains in the womb and is fitted by a clinician. The copper is noxious to sperm and eggs and prevents them meeting. The Mirena lasts for up to 5 years. As it works in a different way to the IUD, it is not effective as emergency contraception.
