Intrauterine Contraception (IUC) course

This session provides evidence-based recommendations and good practice points for health professionals on the use of intrauterine contraception (IUC) currently available in the UK. IUC includes both intrauterine devices (IUD) and intrauterine systems (IUS).

Learning objectives

By the end of this session, learners will be able to:

• 3.6.1 List the advantages, disadvantages and differences between currently available IUD and IUS methods
• 3.6.2 Describe possible side effects and complications of currently available IUD and IUS methods
• 3.6.3 List contraindications (in relation to UKMEC) to IUD and IUS methods
• 3.6.4 Describe the mode of action and contraceptive efficacy of IUC
• 3.6.5 Advise and assess women who wish to use IUC as emergency contraception including assessment and investigation of STI risks
• 3.6.6 Able to explain insertion and removal procedures, including timing of safe removal, using visual aids where appropriate
• 3.6.7 Conduct an effective consultation with a woman considering an IUC

IUC methods are long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) as defined by NICE [1]. Their licensed duration of use varies from 3-10 years.