The benefits of the IUS

- Unlike the pill which you have to remember to take every day, a woman can put contraception out of her mind for at least five years once the device is fitted.

- Fertility returns immediately when the IUS is removed and pregnancy is possible within the first month unless another form of contraception is used.

The IUS helps with:

- Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB): new treatment guidelines specifically recommend the use of the Bayer Schering Pharma IUS before paying consideration to having a hysterectomy. In fact, with the availability of the IUS, almost 50% of hysterectomies due to HMB can be prevented.

- The IUS provides protection from endometrial cancer if used as a means to challenge oestrogen replacement during HRT in menopause. Women who have a uterus cannot use only oestrogen and have to be given progesterone as well. This, coupled with the lack of periods is often a big plus for women of menopausal age and an option to discuss with their doctor.