Intrauterine device and contraceptive implant

Long-acting reversible contraceptives are among the most effective and convenient methods available today for preventing unwanted pregnancy. An intrauterine device (both hormonal and copper IUDs) is placed in the uterus, while a contraceptive implant is inserted under the skin of the upper arm. Both methods provide protection for several years, freeing you from the worry of taking daily contraceptive pills.

Text reviewed by specialist:

dr Andreas Abel

General practitioner

Published

Text updated

When to see a specialist

  • Wanting to find a long-term and effective contraceptive method
  • Needing a contraceptive method that does not require daily remembering
  • Wanting to avoid hormonal pills or other oral contraceptives
  • Menstrual cycle disorders (a hormonal IUD can relieve heavy bleeding and pain)
  • Needing a contraceptive method while breastfeeding
  • Wanting to have a contraceptive device removed to plan a pregnancy
  • Questions about the side effects or suitability of contraceptive methods
  • Sexual health counseling

Common symptoms

  • Have menstrual cycle disorders

    A hormonal IUD can help relieve heavy bleeding and pain.
  • Have questions about contraceptive methods

    If you want to know the advantages, disadvantages, and suitability of different methods.
  • Looking for a long-term contraceptive method

    If you want convenient and effective protection for several years.
  • Tired of taking daily pills

    If you want a contraceptive method that does not require constant remembering.

How to prepare for your appointment

  • Bring your ID card or another form of identification.
  • Make a list of all medications and food supplements you are taking.
  • Think about any questions you may have about contraceptive methods.
  • An intrauterine device is usually inserted during or immediately after your period, as the cervix is more open at that time. Your menstrual cycle is not a factor for implant insertion.
  • Be prepared to discuss your sexual history and your experience with using contraceptives.

What to expect during your appointment

Thorough questioning

We will ask you detailed questions about your health concerns, medical history, lifestyle, and contraceptive preferences.

Gynecological examination

We will perform a gynecological examination to assess your suitability for an intrauterine device. A gynecological exam is not always necessary for an implant.

Counseling and method selection

We will explain the advantages, disadvantages, and possible side effects of different contraceptive methods (IUD, implant, pills, etc.) and help you choose the most suitable one.

Intrauterine device (IUD) insertion

If you choose an IUD, we will place it in your uterus. The procedure is quick but may cause mild discomfort.

Contraceptive implant insertion

If you choose the implant, we will insert it under the skin of your upper arm. The procedure is quick and performed under local anesthesia.

Follow-up

After insertion, we will schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure the device is correctly positioned and that you are feeling well.

Aftercare advice

We will give you instructions on how to care for the device, possible side effects, and removal.

Specialists providing this service

Payment & Appointment Info

Prices

Tallinn

Special care
Service Price
Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. 20 €
Insertion of an intrauterine contraceptive device The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 39 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Removal of an intrauterine contraceptive device The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 26 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Removal of an intrauterine contraceptive device and insertion of a new device The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 51 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Removal of a contraceptive implant and insertion of a new implant (Nexplanon) The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 92 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Removal of a contraceptive implant (Nexplanon) The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 60 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Insertion of a contraceptive implant (Nexplanon) The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 60 € A visit fee is added to the price.

Everywhere else in Estonia

Special care
Service Price
Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. 13 €
Insertion of an intrauterine contraceptive device The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 39 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Removal of an intrauterine contraceptive device The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 26 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Removal of an intrauterine contraceptive device and insertion of a new device The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 51 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Removal of a contraceptive implant and insertion of a new implant (Nexplanon) The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 92 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Removal of a contraceptive implant (Nexplanon) The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 60 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Insertion of a contraceptive implant (Nexplanon) The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. 60 € A visit fee is added to the price.
Payment methods

This service is not covered by Meliva Health Insurance. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

Referral

You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.

Who is this appointment for?

The appointment is for women who want long-term and effective contraceptive protection.

An intrauterine device and a contraceptive implant are not suitable for everyone. Certain health conditions or medications may be contraindications.

Neither method protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

This service does not replace emergency medical intervention.

Clinics offering this service

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an intrauterine device (IUD)?

An intrauterine device is a small, T-shaped device that is placed in the uterus and provides contraceptive protection for several years. It can be either a hormonal or a copper IUD.

What is a contraceptive implant?

A contraceptive implant is a small, flexible rod that is inserted under the skin of the upper arm and releases hormones, providing contraceptive protection for several years.

How effective are these methods?

Both methods are very effective, providing over 99% protection against unwanted pregnancy.

Is the insertion painful?

The insertion of an intrauterine device may cause mild discomfort or pain, but this is usually brief. The implant is inserted under local anesthesia and is painless.

How long do these devices provide protection?

Depending on the type, an intrauterine device provides protection for 3-10 years, while a contraceptive implant provides protection for 3 years.

Are these methods suitable for use while breastfeeding?

Yes, the hormonal IUD, the copper IUD, and the contraceptive implant are all suitable for use while breastfeeding.