How does Flexi-T work?

The copper on the Flexi-T IUD releases traces of copper in the immediate vicinity, causing sperms to lose mobility and preventing fertilisation. In addition, in the unlikely event that an egg is fertilised, the copper on the Flexi-T prevents the fertilised egg from implanting in the uterine wall. As a result, this IUD is also an excellent ‘morning after’ option in the event of an accident. This dual effect starts immediately after the Flexi-T is inserted.

Why Flexi-T?

Why should I choose a Flexi-T instead of other contraception methods? This is a personal decision which only you can make. Enclosed video will show you the advantages of the Flexi- T in comparison to other methods for contraception so you can easily choose what’s best for you.

Inserting a Flexi-T

Inserting a Flexi-T IUD is easy to arrange through your GP or gynaecologist. If the physician has ultrasound equipment, an internal examination is not necessary. An appointment will take approximately 20 minutes; the insertion itself will not take longer than 5 minutes.

The Flexi-T is very user-friendly for physicians as well as for the women who wear it. It uses a simple, easy insertion system.
A thin, flexible insertion tube only 3.5 mm in diameter. Since the insertion tube is narrower than other IUD’s, insertion causes hardly any discomfort.

Ideally, you should take two paracetamol tablets or an ibuprofen one hour before the procedure so the medication can start to work beforehand. If necessary, you could also request local anaesthetic in the form of 1cc of Lidocaine.

The Flexi-T should ideally be inserted during menstruation, when the risk of pregnancy is minimal, insertion is easier, and additional blood loss can be avoided.

You lie in a reclining position on an examination chair or table. If ultrasound equipment is available, an internal ultrasound is performed to check the position and size of the uterus. In that case, an internal examination is not necessary. If it is not possible to perform an ultrasound, an internal examination will be necessary. An internal examination is generally considered somewhat more challenging than an ultrasound.

A device known as a speculum is inserted into the vagina so the physician will be able to see the opening of the cervix. A probe is used to confirm the depth and angle of the uterus. The insertion tube containing the Flexi-T is inserted, the insertion tube is withdrawn. The blue string that is attached to the IUD is trimmed to the right length. If ultrasound equipment is available, an ultrasound is performed to confirm that the IUD is positioned correctly. You do not have to check the string yourself. If you would like, you can take a look at your own uterus on the ultrasound display. This will allow you to see for yourself that the IUD has been inserted correctly.

Check Up

It is advised to have your physician check the presence and correct position of the IUD after your first cycle and after approximately 6 months. Since self-examination is hardly possible, please consult your physician if you have any doubt on the correct position of your IUD.

If you are concerned about a side effect, contact your physician.

Important

If you are taking any medication, especially anticoagulants (blood thinners) notify your physician first. If you are receiving electrotherapy or radiotherapy, notify your doctor that you are using a copper IUD

Possible side effects:

 

  •   Mild cramps
  •   Longer menstruation after insertion
  •   Increased blood flow during first menstruation after insertion
  •   Spotting throughout menstrual cycle during first week after insertion
  •   Copper allergy (rare; always notify your doctor if you are allergic)
Do not use Flexi-T or have this type of IUD inserted in the event of:

 

  •   Pregnancy
  •   Infection of the uterus or cervix
  •   Bleeding polyps inside the uterus
  •   Malformation of the uterus or cervix
  •   Copper allergy
  •   While using anticoagulant medication (consult a physician)
Availability of the Flexi-T

Your GP and/or gynaecologist can insert a Flexi-T. After an initial appointment, he/she can give you a prescription to purchase a Flexi-T from any chemist’s in your country.