 There are options for pain relief when having the procedure, including local anaesthetic gel or a fast-acting anaesthetic spray, but they’re rarely suggested. You stand a far better chance of getting pain relief if you ask for it and know what the options are.

Now, you might be reading this and thinking that perhaps the coil isn’t for you after all. But it’s worth pointing out that it can be an incredibly effective form of contraception when inserted correctly, and everyone I spoke with said they’d have it inserted again – despite the discomfort.

“It’s been a really great choice of contraception for me. Even though it was incredibly painful to have it inserted, the positives massively outweigh the pain,” says Cerys. Betsy, on the other hand, says that she’s looking to go back on the copper coil. “It worked well for my body. If you’re looking for non-hormonal contraception, I’d recommend that.”

As with most areas of healthcare, the key here is knowing your options and being able to advocate for yourself. Know that extreme pain isn’t necessary – you can ask for numbing cream or painkillers. Use that consultation appointment to ask as many questions as you can – including how long the pain might last for and how intense it’s likely to be. Also know that there are different types of coil, so if one doesn’t work for you, you can try another.

4 women on their experience of having the coil fitted – and the hormonal aftermath