It can be left in place for up to 10 years before being replaced. The IUCD causes changes in the uterus making it less suitable for a pregnancy and preventing the sperm reaching the ovum. It is most suitable for women who have had one or more children and who have only sexual partner. IUCDs are available from some general practitioners, gynaecologists and family planning clinics . A woman determines when she is most fertile by observing her body temperature, changes in vaginal mucus and other signs of ovulation.
Some couples choose to use condoms or a diaphragm during the fertile time.
Women with irregular periods, after childbirth and around menopause may find this method difficult. Periodic abstinence should be taught by a trained health care worker eg. More about natural family planning Back to top Sterilisation Sterilisation is a permanent method of contraception which stops the sperm from meeting the ovum. In women it is an operation called a tubal sterilisation and involves the Fallopian tube being clipped or cut. Male sterilisation is called vasectomy.