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Fertility (Ovulation thermometer)
Digital thermometers are available (e.g. through NHS supplies) but are not included in the Drug Tariff and so cannot be prescribed on FP10. Refer to the Family Planning Clinic for advice.
IUDs are suitable for use in all women, including nulliparae.
The most effective IUDs contain at least 380mm2 of copper and have banded copper on the arms e.g. T-Safe 380A QL, are thought to be the most effective. Alternatives are Nova-T 380 and Mini TT380 Slimline for women whose uterine cavity is of an insufficient size for the T-Safe 380A QL
All IUDs should only be fitted by those who have been appropriately trained
MHRA Drug Safety Alert (June 2015): Before inserting an intrauterine system (IUS) or intrauterine device (IUD), inform women that perforation occurs in less than 1 in 1,000 women and that the symptoms include:
Explain to women how to check their threads and tell them to return for a check-up if they cannot feel them (especially if they also have significant pain). Partial perforation may have occurred even if the threads can still be seen; consider this if there is severe pain following insertion.
An IUD fitted or re-fitted after a woman's 40th birthday, does not need to be changed. It can be removed one year after the last period
If a surgery is unable to provide an IUD insertion, patients can arrange a fitting by contacting:
Patient or GP must mention the appointment is for an emergency fitting.
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Caps and diaphragms are used infrequently. Advice on choice, prescription and fitting of caps and diaphragms should be obtained from a Specialist (primary or secondary care) in their use.
Diaphragms are usually used. They are normally replaced annually, have expiry dates and are used with spermicides.
Caps are used less often e.g. prolapse, poor muscle tone and urinary symptoms. They last longer than diaphragms, have expiry dates and are used with spermicides.