Medically reviewed by the medical team at The Wellness. Last reviewed November 2026.
The contraceptive implant and the coil are both more than 99% effective and last for years without you having to remember anything. The implant is a small rod in the arm that lasts 5 years, and a copper coil lasts 5 or 10 years and can also be used as emergency contraception. The Online GP by The Wellness offers implant fitting from £595 and coil fitting from £1,095.
Key points
The implant and the coil are long-acting reversible contraception, both more than 99% effective.
The NHS states the implant works for 5 years before it needs replacing.
A copper coil lasts 5 or 10 years depending on the type, and can be fitted as emergency contraception within 5 days of unprotected sex.
Fertility returns to normal as soon as the implant or coil is removed.
The Online GP by The Wellness offers implant fitting from £595, coil fitting from £1,095 and removal of either from £395.
How do the coil and the implant compare?
The coil and the implant both prevent pregnancy for years, but they work differently. The implant is a small flexible rod placed under the skin of the upper arm that releases a progestogen hormone. The coil is a small device placed in the womb, either copper and hormone-free, or a hormonal coil.
The implant is fitted in a few minutes under local anaesthetic. The coil is fitted through the cervix, takes about 5 to 10 minutes, and some people find it uncomfortable, so pain relief is discussed beforehand.
How effective and long-lasting are they?
Both are more than 99% effective. The NHS guide to the contraceptive implant states it works for 5 years before it needs replacing, and the NHS guide to the IUD states a copper coil lasts 5 or 10 years depending on the type.
Because neither depends on remembering a pill, they are among the most effective methods available. Fertility returns to what it was before as soon as either is removed.
Ask a doctor on WhatsApp which method suits you.
Can a coil be used as emergency contraception?
Yes. A copper coil fitted within 5 days of unprotected sex is the most effective form of emergency contraception, and it then continues as ongoing contraception. If you need emergency contraception, speak to a clinician as soon as possible, because timing matters.
The best contraception is the one that fits your body and your plans. A short conversation about periods, side effects and future pregnancy plans usually makes the choice clear.
What should I ask before choosing?
Before choosing, consider how your periods are now, whether you want to avoid hormones, how long you want contraception for, and any medical conditions such as migraine, heavy periods or blood clots. The clinician also checks whether an STI test or pregnancy test is needed before fitting.
Our guide to the symptoms of perimenopause explains how contraception choices can change in your 40s.
Book a contraception consultation on WhatsApp.
What happens when I book a coil or implant fitting?
A coil or implant fitting at The Online GP by The Wellness starts with a consultation about your health and plans, continues with the fitting by a trained clinician, and ends with aftercare and a clear plan for when it needs changing.
Message the team on WhatsApp with the method you are considering and any questions.
A clinician reviews your history and confirms the method suits you.
You receive preparation advice, including pain relief and any tests needed first.
A trained clinician fits the implant or coil.
You receive aftercare advice and a reminder of when it should be checked or replaced.
Chosen with care. Fitted by experts.
How much does a private coil or implant cost in London?
Contraceptive implant fitting at The Online GP by The Wellness costs £595, and implant removal costs £395. Coil fitting costs £1,095, coil removal costs £395, and coil removal and refit costs £1,195.
Most people who want hormone-free contraception choose a copper coil. The implant suits people who want a quick fitting and five years of cover. Book a fitting on WhatsApp.
Can a doctor tell me whether the coil or implant suits me?
Yes. Send your age, your current contraception, how your periods are and any medical conditions on WhatsApp. A clinician tells you which method suits you, or whether a consultation should come first.
Start your free suitability review on WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions
Does a coil fitting hurt?
Many people feel cramping during fitting, which usually settles quickly. Taking painkillers beforehand helps, and extra pain relief can be discussed.
Will the implant change my periods?
The implant often changes bleeding patterns. Periods may become lighter, stop, or become irregular. The clinician explains what to expect.
How soon does the implant or coil work?
It depends on when in your cycle it is fitted. A copper coil works straight away. The clinician tells you whether you need extra contraception for a few days.
Can I have the coil or implant removed early?
Yes. Either can be removed at any time by a trained clinician, and fertility returns to normal straight away.
Sources
NHS, Contraceptive implant
NHS, Intrauterine device (IUD)
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