Intra-uterine contraceptive devices (IUCD) (Formulary)

TAM (Treatments and Medicines) NHS Highland
NHS Highland

FSRH CEU Guidance: Drug Interactions with Hormonal Contraception (May 2022).
SPS article: Using contraception with enzyme-inducing medicines (June 2023).

The most effective methods of IUC are the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) methods and T-shaped copper intrauterine devices (Cu-IUDs) with at least 380 mm2 copper and copper bands on the transverse arms (banded devices). Refer to FSRH guidance.

FSRH CEU Statement: Extended use of all 52mg LNG-IUDs for up to eight years for contraception (May 2024) - Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare

LEVONORGESTREL INTRAUTERINE SYSTEM (LGN-IUS)

Therapy notes

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Levosert® 
52mg LNG-IUS

Dosage:

For individuals who require contraception and/or management of heavy menstrual bleeding.

  • Licensed for 8 years for contraception
  • Can be used up to 8 years for bleeding control (menorrhagia)
  • Can be used up to 5 years for endometrial protection as part of HRT (off-label indication: accepted practice as per FSRH and BMS guidance)

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Mirena® 
52mg LNG-IUS

Dosage:

For individuals who require contraception and/or management of heavy menstrual bleeding.

  • Licensed for 8 years for contraception
  • Can be used up to 8 years for bleeding control (menorrhagia)
  • Can be used up to 5 years for endometrial protection as part of HRT

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Kyleena® 
19·5mg LNG-IUS 

Dosage:

For women who only require contraception and a smaller IUS for easier insertion.  Effective for 5 years.

As per SMC 1299/18: contraception for up to 5 years.

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Jaydess® 
13mg LNG-IUS 

Dosage:

For women who only require contraception and a smaller IUS for easier insertion.  Effective for 3 years.

INTRA-UTERINE CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICE (COPPER)

Therapy notes

  • Fertility declines with age and therefore any copper IUCD fitted in a woman over 40 remains effective for contraception until 2 years after the menopause.

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

T-Safe 380A, TT 380® SlimLine and Copper T 380A

Dosage:

These are banded devices and are the preferred choice due to its 10 year use.

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Nova-T® 380 (non banded) 

Dosage:

With its 5 year use is a suitable alternative.

Editorial Information

Version: 2.1

Document Id: F370