Contraception

During a contraception consultation, we discuss your preferences and review various contraceptive methods with you. Naturally, we take your medical history into account. If you choose a hormonal or copper IUD, you can have it inserted at our clinic.

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IUD's (Intrauterine Devices)

​An IUD is a highly reliable form of contraception that is compatible with breastfeeding. There are two types of IUDs: the hormone-free copper IUD's (T-Safe, Multi-Safe (short), and Flexi-T) and the hormonal IUD's (Mirena and Kyleena).

Copper IUD's​

A copper IUD is suitable for women who prefer reliable contraception without hormones. Immediately after insertion, the IUD gradually releases a small amount of copper. Copper immobilizes sperm cells and prevents the fertilization of an egg. Additionally, it ensures that a fertilized egg cannot implant in the uterus.
With a copper IUD, you retain your natural menstrual cycle. In the first few months after insertion, your periods may differ from normal. Most women experience little to no discomfort from the IUD, but some may experience side effects such as heavier, longer, or irregular bleeding. Some may also have (severe) abdominal cramps. After a few months, your body adjusts to the copper IUD, and your natural cycle normalizes. A small number of women may continue to have slightly heavier bleeding during their periods.

Inserting an IUD

Inserting an IUD is a quick procedure. A speculum is used to make the cervix visible. The midwife will measure your uterus before inserting the IUD. It's important to ensure no risk of STI's or pregnancy before insertion.
Insertion can be uncomfortable or painful. You may take one 400 mg ibuprofen or two 500 mg paracetamol tablets the evening before the procedure and another dose one hour before the appointment.

Hormonal IUD's

​The hormonal IUD gradually releases a small amount of hormones, making the mucus in the cervix thicker and more difficult for sperm to penetrate. The hormone levonorgestrel, released into the uterus, reduces sperm motility, decreasing the likelihood of fertilization. Additionally, the hormonal release and the presence of the IUD as a "foreign object" in the uterus prevent the uterine lining from building up. This makes it nearly impossible for a fertilized egg to implant. For some women, ovulation may also be suppressed, meaning no egg is released, and fertilization cannot occur.
Common side effects of the hormonal IUD include increased or decreased menstrual bleeding, spotting, or the absence of periods.

After IUD placement

After insertion, we recommend the following:

• Avoid intercourse for the first 24 hours.
• Refrain from using tampons in the first few days after placement.
• Avoid using menstrual cups, as the risk of dislodging the IUD is three times higher than with pads or tampons.
• You may experience bleeding and/or cramping in the days following placement. For discomfort, you can take two 500 mg paracetamol tablets or one 400 mg ibuprofen tablet. If you’re breastfeeding, paracetamol is preferred.
• Copper IUDs (T-Safe, Multi-Safe (short), and Flexi-T) provide immediate protection against pregnancy after insertion.
• Hormonal IUDs (Mirena and Kyleena) are reliable after 7 days unless inserted within 7 days of the first day of menstruation, in which case they are immediately effective.

Possible side effects​

When to contact us

• Your body may need 3–6 months to adjust to the IUD. During this time, you might experience irregular bleeding (spotting), heavier bleeding, or cramps. These symptoms usually subside after this adjustment period.
• Mild abdominal pain.
• Increased vaginal discharge.

Follow-up appointment 

We schedule a follow-up appointment six weeks after placement or after at least one menstrual cycle. During this check-up, we ensure the IUD is still in place and discuss any symptoms you may have. If desired, the follow-up can include an ultrasound at an additional cost of €55,00 in 2025.

The midwife remains your point of contact for six weeks after IUD placement. For any questions, feel free to get in touch. After six weeks, your GP takes over for this care.
Contact us immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Fever (temperature above 38.5°C), especially with abdominal pain and unusual discharge (unusual smelling or discolored).
• Heavy bleeding with clots and dizziness.
• Abdominal pain that does not subside with adequate pain relief (2 x 500 mg paracetamol every 4–6 hours).
• If the IUD is expelled (due to cramping) within the first six weeks.
• If you can feel the IUD itself and not just the threads.
• Persistent symptoms after IUD insertion.

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IUD removal or replacement

You can also visit us for IUD removal or replacement. Fertility returns immediately after removal.

Costs for placement 

​The cost of IUD placement in 2025 is €79.19. These costs can be claimed from your health insurer, though not all insurers fully cover them, and the amount may be deducted from your deductible excessde. Check with your insurer for coverage details.

Overview of contraceptive methods