When 25-year-old Elle Adams decided to try non-hormonal contraception, she never imagined the copper coil would lead to what she describes as "the most agonising experience of my life." The marketing assistant's story has ignited crucial conversations about women's health and contraceptive safety in the UK.
The Promise Versus The Reality
"I chose the copper coil because I wanted to avoid hormonal side effects," Elle explained. "The procedure itself was uncomfortable, but nothing prepared me for what came next."
Within hours of insertion, Elle began experiencing severe cramping that quickly escalated to unbearable levels. "It felt like my insides were being shredded with glass. I couldn't stand up straight, let alone function normally."
Weeks of Suffering
What followed was a nightmare that lasted nearly three weeks. Elle experienced:
- Debilitating pain that left her bedridden
- Heavy bleeding that required multiple changes per hour
- Dizziness and nausea from blood loss
- Multiple emergency medical consultations
"I went back to the clinic twice, but they kept telling me it was 'normal adjustment pain.' I knew in my gut something was terribly wrong," she recalled.
The Turning Point
After nearly three weeks of suffering, Elle returned to the clinic demanding removal. "The moment the coil came out, the relief was instantaneous. The excruciating pain that had dominated my life for weeks just vanished."
A Warning to Others
Elle's experience highlights several critical issues in women's healthcare:
- Pain dismissal: "Women's pain is too often minimised or dismissed as 'normal'"
- Inadequate aftercare: Lack of proper follow-up and support
- Information gaps: Not being prepared for potential severe reactions
"I'm sharing my story because no woman should have to endure what I went through," Elle stated. "While many women have positive experiences with copper coils, we need better systems to identify when something isn't right."
Medical Perspective
While copper IUDs are generally safe and effective for most women, severe reactions like Elle's, though rare, do occur. Medical professionals emphasise the importance of:
- Thorough pre-insertion counselling about potential side effects
- Clear guidelines on when to seek emergency care
- Taking patient-reported pain seriously
- Regular follow-up appointments after insertion
Elle's ordeal serves as a powerful reminder that while contraceptive choices are essential, patient safety and proper medical oversight must remain paramount in women's healthcare.
