TV presenter Davina McCall demonstrates that undergoing scans before contraceptive coil fittings can alleviate discomfort

A study has found that undergoing an ultrasound scan while having a contraceptive coil fitted can reduce pain and lower the risk of complications.

Doctors use high-frequency sound waves to create images that guide the coil into the womb, ensuring it is correctly positioned and minimizing the chance of discomfort or bleeding.

Improper positioning of the T-shaped coil, made of copper or plastic, can lead to pain and other issues.

Approximately one million women in the UK undergo this procedure each year, mostly in sexual health clinics or GP surgeries, benefiting from a 99% reduction in the risk of pregnancy and relief from menopausal symptoms.

TV presenter Davina McCall had her coil fitting filmed for a Channel 4 documentary called Pill Revolution, where she explored concerns about contraceptive pills. The 55-year-old uses the Mirena coil, which releases a synthetic hormone that mimics progesterone to prevent pregnancy. In the show, she described the fitting as painful.

TV host Davina McCall had her coil procedure filmed for Channel 4 documentary Pill Revolution last month, in which she explored concerns about the contraceptive pill

If set incorrectly, the T-shaped coil (pictured) – made from either copper or plastic – can push on muscle or become loose, causing pain and bleeding

Research published in the Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine reveals that ultrasound scans significantly reduce pain during fittings and also expedite the procedure while reducing the risk of dislodgement.

Currently, ultrasound scans are only offered to women with a history of difficult fittings in hospital settings. However, some medical professionals argue that these findings support wider implementation of scans for all patients.

‘It’s difficult to argue against making this standard practice,’ says Dr. Joel Naftalin, a consultant gynaecologist at University College London.

However, other doctors have expressed concerns about the feasibility of this approach.

‘Most GPs are not trained to perform these scans and do not have ultrasound machines in their offices,’ says Dr. Philippa Kaye, a GP specializing in women’s health.