posted by: Sophia Davies
We are aware that the use of moon cups and other menstrual cups is increasing due to concerns about the environment. With COVID-related travel restrictions in place they also offer a convenient way of managing periods when access to other sanitary products might be difficult.
We are seeing an increase in numbers of coils becoming dislodged or even removed by the use of such menstrual cups. We wish to advise caution, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic which means access to our service is limited.
Please follow the recommendations below when using a menstrual cup if you have a coil:
The manufacturer of the Moon Cup® recommends waiting for 6 weeks following the insertion of IUC before using the menstrual cup. They also state that the Moon Cup should be placed low in the vagina with an adequate seal, which should be broken before the cup is removed. The manufacturer also recommends checking for IUC threads after each menses. If the threads cannot be located, or if a woman thinks her Cu-IUD has moved or if a woman experiences pain, the manufacturer recommends using additional contraception and consulting with an appropriate health care professional. (FSRH guidance on Intrauterine contraception)
Please note that due to COVID-19 we will not be able to refit a coil that has become dislodged or removed but we will be able to remove a dislodged coil to ensure you are safe and pain free.
If you do have concerns about your coil please phone your local clinic for advice.
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How to access our service:
We have now implemented a telephone triage system for all of our clinics. This system will be in place for the duration of the pandemic. Please contact our services to access this triage system. Our central telephone number is 0300 303 3989.
If you are experiencing symptoms of Coronavirus please do not attend the clinic. Clear advice for people with symptoms of coronavirus is available at nhs.uk/coronavirus .
Advice from our service:
We have updated information on the provision of routine contraception during this pandemic here.
If you need the combined contraceptive pill please try (if you can) to get updated measurements of your height, weight and blood pressure before calling us.
We are currently prioritising these groups for coil and implant (LARC) fits:
More details on LARC fittings at our service are found here
There is also specific advice on coronavirus available for People Living with HIV here, and for pregnant women here.
Self-requested Sexual Health screening by post is available for for under 25s only - more info here
For others with testing requirements please contact the service on 0300 303 3989.
Information is now also available to advise on sexual contact during a time of social distancing here.
Alternative provision:
Please be aware that we may have to cancel, rearrange or shut clinical services in response to changing clinical and staffing pressures created by the Coronavirus pandemic.
If you are struggling to access sexual health services, alternatives may be available: