- Confirms your coil (IUD or IUS) is correctly positioned in the uterus
- Transvaginal and/or transabdominal scanning as clinically appropriate
- Detects malposition, expulsion, or perforation concerns
- Immediate results — same-day written report
- No GP referral needed — book directly online
- Performed by HCPC-registered consultant sonographer
- Recommended 6 weeks after coil fitting or if you have concerns
- Price: £159
- Convenient Kensington, London location
An intrauterine device (IUD or IUS) that has shifted from its optimal position can fail to prevent pregnancy or cause pelvic discomfort. A coil check ultrasound at IUS London gives you a clear, evidence-based answer — performed and reported on the same day by a consultant sonographer.
Why Coil Position Matters
The Mirena, Kyleena, Jaydess, Levosert (IUS) and copper coil (IUD) all rely on correct intrauterine placement to work effectively. Studies show that up to 1 in 20 coils may partially or fully expel within the first year of fitting, and a small number can migrate toward the lower uterine segment or cervical canal — reducing contraceptive efficacy and increasing the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease.
A coil check ultrasound is the gold-standard method for confirming position. It is recommended by the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare (FSRH) approximately six weeks after insertion, and at any point if you experience unusual bleeding, pelvic pain, or cannot feel your coil threads.
What the Coil Check Ultrasound Assesses
At IUS London, your coil check is performed using a high-resolution transvaginal ultrasound probe (with your consent) and, where clinically appropriate, a transabdominal approach. The scan takes approximately 15–20 minutes and evaluates:
- IUD/IUS position — confirming the device sits centrally within the uterine cavity, with both arms correctly deployed
- Distance from the fundus — the device should sit within 2 cm of the uterine fundus; greater displacement indicates malposition
- Cervical canal — ruling out partial expulsion into the cervix
- Uterine integrity — excluding perforation, which is rare but requires prompt management
- Endometrial and myometrial appearance — identifying any associated pathology such as fibroids that may affect device retention
- Ovaries and adnexa — a general pelvic assessment is included as standard
Your consultant sonographer will explain the findings during the scan and provide a written report before you leave the clinic.
Book Your Coil Check — From £159
Same-day results. No GP referral needed. HCPC-registered consultant sonographer. Kensington, London.
When Should You Have a Coil Check Ultrasound?
The FSRH recommends a routine ultrasound check 6 weeks after coil insertion. Beyond the routine check, you should seek a coil position scan promptly if you experience any of the following:
- You cannot feel your coil threads or they seem shorter or longer than usual
- Unexpected or heavier-than-usual bleeding, particularly after the first few months
- Pelvic pain or cramping that is new or worsening
- Pain during intercourse
- A positive pregnancy test whilst using a coil
- Concerns following a difficult or complicated fitting procedure
You do not need a GP referral. You can book directly online and receive your results the same day. If you are also experiencing pelvic symptoms, you may wish to consider a full pelvic ultrasound scan.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
When you arrive at IUS London's clinic in Kensington, you will be welcomed by our reception team and asked to complete a brief clinical history form. The scan itself follows these steps:
- Consultation — your sonographer will review your history, confirm your consent for transvaginal scanning, and answer any questions
- Transabdominal scan — a quick preliminary scan with a gel-covered probe on your abdomen to assess the uterus and ovaries in overview
- Transvaginal scan — a slender probe is gently introduced to provide high-resolution images of the uterine cavity and confirm the exact position of the coil device
- Real-time explanation — your sonographer will describe what they are seeing as the scan progresses
- Written report — a formal report is prepared and provided to you before you leave, with a copy available to share with your GP or gynaecologist
The entire appointment takes approximately 30 minutes. You may bring a companion if you wish.
Clinical Evidence
The clinical evidence base for ultrasound-guided coil position assessment is well established:
- Braaten et al. (2011) found that transvaginal ultrasound correctly identified IUD malposition in 97% of cases, compared with 80% for clinical examination alone. (Obstetrics & Gynecology, 2011)
- A systematic review by Moreau et al. (2019) confirmed that ultrasound is the preferred imaging modality for evaluating IUD position and detecting complications, with sensitivity exceeding 90% for malposition detection. (Contraception, 2019)
- The FSRH Clinical Guideline on Intrauterine Contraception (2023) recommends ultrasound assessment when thread visibility is uncertain or when symptoms suggest displacement.
At IUS London, all scans are performed by a HCPC-registered consultant sonographer with specialist training in gynaecological ultrasound, ensuring your results meet the highest clinical standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a coil check ultrasound the same as a pelvic scan?
A coil check is a targeted pelvic ultrasound focused specifically on confirming the position of your intrauterine device. It includes a general pelvic assessment as standard, but the primary clinical purpose is to evaluate the IUD or IUS position relative to the uterine fundus and cervical canal.
How soon after fitting should I have a coil check?
The FSRH recommends an ultrasound check approximately 6 weeks after insertion. If you experience symptoms such as pain, unusual bleeding, or difficulty feeling your threads before the 6-week mark, you should seek an earlier assessment.
What types of coil can you check at IUS London?
We can assess the position of all commonly used intrauterine devices, including the Mirena, Kyleena, Jaydess, and Levosert (hormonal IUS devices) and all copper IUD variants.
Do I need a GP referral for a coil check?
No. You can book your coil check ultrasound directly online without a GP referral. A written report will be provided to you on the day, which you can share with your GP or sexual health clinic if required.
Is the coil check covered by health insurance?
Many private health insurance policies cover diagnostic ultrasound scans. We recommend contacting your insurer directly to confirm coverage before booking. We can provide an itemised receipt and report for insurance claim purposes.
What is the difference between a coil check and a coil fitting?
A coil fitting is a clinical procedure in which the IUD or IUS is placed inside the uterus. A coil check is a diagnostic ultrasound scan to confirm that a previously fitted device is correctly positioned. IUS London provides coil check scans only — we do not perform coil fittings or removals.