Specialist coil fitting service with Dr Shona Williamson
Why are more women across Edinburgh choosing to have their contraceptive coil fitted privately with us? At Edinburgh GP, you’re in experienced hands with Dr Shona Williamson, a highly respected GP with a specialist focus in women’s health.
Whether you are exploring your contraceptive options or looking for a long-term, trusted GP, Edinburgh GP is here for you. Trust Dr Shona Williamson and the team at Edinburgh GP Ltd for safe, professional coil care.
Modern contraception, expert care and time for you.
If you’re looking for reliable, long-acting contraception without the daily hassle—the coil (IUD or IUS) is one of the most effective options available today. At Edinburgh GP, you’re in experienced hands with Dr Shona Williamson, a highly respected GP with a specialist focus in women’s health and years of NHS experience in Chalmers Hospital’s women’s health clinics.
Whether you are choosing a coil for the first time, replacing an old one, or simply want to talk through your options—we’re here to provide personalised, expert care in a calm and supportive setting.
Here’s why more women across Edinburgh are choosing to have their contraceptive coil fitted privately with us:
- Specialist care from a trusted expert: Dr Shona Williamson
We’re proud to have Dr Shona Williamson, an experienced GP with a special interest in women’s health, leading our coil fitting service. Dr Williamson has many years of experience working in both private practice and NHS women’s health clinics at Chalmers Hospital, where she regularly performed coil insertions and provided contraceptive care.
Her patients value her calm, thoughtful approach and expert clinical skill—whether it’s their first fitting or a routine replacement. - No waiting lists – appointments when you need them
We offer fast access to appointments—often within just a few days. If you’re looking to avoid NHS delays or simply want care that works around your schedule, we make it easy to get the support you need when you need it. - Discreet, personalised care
All consultations and fittings take place in a relaxed, confidential setting. You’ll be given time, space, and expert guidance—without being rushed. We focus on providing care that respects your preferences and puts your comfort first. - Flexible appointment times
Life is busy, which is why we offer daytime, evening, and weekend appointments—so you can choose a time that works for you and your family. - Part of a Full-Service Private GP Practice
At Edinburgh GP Ltd, coil fitting is just one of the many services we offer. We are a comprehensive GP clinic, supporting the health of individuals and families—from young children to older adults.
Whether you need help with chronic condition management, same-day care for an illness, or a long-term family doctor you can trust, we’re here to look after your complete health journey. - Comprehensive aftercare
Should you have any concerns after your coil fitting, you’ll have direct and timely access to advice and support from our team—without the long delays commonly experienced elsewhere. - Convenient central Edinburgh location
Our modern, discreet clinic is located in central Edinburgh, offering a calm, welcoming environment far from the crowds and pressures of large hospitals or drop-in centres. - Full range of coil options
We offer both hormonal coils (such as Mirena and Kyleena) and non-hormonal copper coils. During your consultation, Dr Williamson will talk you through the different options and help you choose the one that best suits your body, lifestyle, and preferences.
What Happens During a Coil Fitting?
Let’s take the mystery out of it. The procedure is straightforward, usually completed in under 20 minutes, and is similar in setup to a smear test.
Here’s what to expect:
- A speculum is inserted to view the cervix.
- The cervix is gently stabilised, the uterus measured.
- Your chosen coil is then inserted.
You might feel some cramping or discomfort—this is completely normal. To help, we encourage you to take ibuprofen and paracetamol beforehand. You’ll also be offered a choice of cervical anaesthetic (gel or a local injection) to ease the process. Some women opt for neither—it’s your choice.
Once inserted, some cramping like a period pain may follow but usually settles quickly, often within 24 hours.
“Is it painful?”
Most people describe it as uncomfortable rather than painful, and the majority are surprised by how quick it is. You may have spotting afterwards—we’ll provide a sanitary pad and recommend avoiding tampons or menstrual cups for a couple of weeks to reduce infection risk.
Removal? Quick and Simple
When it’s time for a change—or if you just want it out—removal is usually a quick, painless process. A speculum is used, the threads are gently pulled, and that’s it. On rare occasions, threads may be harder to find, but we have tools and techniques to retrieve them safely and comfortably.
Risks to know about
Like any procedure, there are a few risks to be aware of:
- Infection: Uncommon but important. If you get unusual discharge, a high temperature, or persistent pain—get in touch.
- Expulsion: Coils can occasionally fall out, particularly during your first period post-fitting. You’ll be shown how to check for the threads.
- Perforation: Rare but serious. If the threads are missing, we’ll check and refer for a scan if needed.
- Pregnancy & Ectopic Risk: Coils are among the most effective contraceptives, but no method is 100%. If pregnancy occurs, there’s a slightly increased risk of ectopic pregnancy—but overall, your risk of pregnancy is much lower.
Side Effects: What’s Normal?
Copper Coil
Periods may become heavier or crampier.
Hormonal Coil (e.g. Mirena, Kyleena)
Spotting is common in the first few months.
Possible hormonal effects (bloating, breast tenderness, mood changes) are usually mild and temporary—and less likely with lower-dose options.
Why So Many Women Choose the Coil
- “Fit and forget”: No daily pills, no monthly worry.
- Fertility returns fast once removed.
- Protects womb lining—especially helpful if you’re on HRT or managing PCOS or endometriosis.
- Can lighten or stop periods with hormonal options.
Why Choose Edinburgh GP?
We’re not just a coil clinic, we’re a comprehensive private GP service. That means continuity of care, longer appointments, and a trusted team of doctors for you and your family, now and into the future.
You’ll be looked after in a modern, central Edinburgh clinic—no long waits, no rushed visits. Just expert care, on your terms. Appointments are available throughout the week and often within days. Trust Dr Shona Williamson and the team at Edinburgh GP Ltd for safe, professional coil care.
Your body. Your choice. Your time.