Gold IUD: Size Selection, GoldLuna EXCLUSIVE and Other Manufacturers

Sizes: Short, Medium and Large

Gold-containing IUDs are sized under different names depending on the manufacturer. In clinical practice, three main groups are discussed:

• Short / Mini / Small: A smaller frame. The first-choice option for women who have not given birth and for a small uterine cavity.
• Medium / Normal / Standard: The standard size for most women who have given birth.
• Large / Maxi / Long: Preferred for a wider or deeper uterine cavity.

For Eurogine GOLD T, for example:

• Mini ≈ 24 × 30.5 mm
• Normal ≈ 31 × 33 mm
• Maxi ≈ 36.5 × 38 mm

GoldLuna EXCLUSIVE comes in Mini and Normal sizes. Other manufacturers have a similar short / medium / large distinction. Size names may vary from brand to brand; the decision is based on the product label and the measurement taken on the day.

Advantages of the short (Short / Mini) model for women who have not given birth

In women who have not given birth, the uterine cavity is usually smaller, and the cervix is narrower and less flexible. Placing a large IUD in this anatomy can increase the risk of pain, cramps, displacement (expulsion) and early removal.

Practical advantages of the short model:

• The smaller frame fits the uterine cavity more comfortably and does not press on the fundus.
• Passage through the cervix during insertion is easier; procedural pain is reduced for most women.
• Cramps and heavier menstrual bleeding in the first months may be less pronounced.
• The risk of expulsion (spontaneous coming out) drops when the right size is chosen.
• Day-to-day comfort improves; discomfort during intercourse or when sitting is reported less often.

The short model is not automatically prescribed for every woman who has not given birth. Uterine length, width and endometrial thickness are measured by ultrasound, and hysterometry is performed. For some women who have not given birth, the Normal size may also be suitable. The decision is made in the examination room.

GoldLuna EXCLUSIVE — a model frequently used at SoftCare

GoldLuna EXCLUSIVE is a hormone-free gold-copper IUD made in Germany by Dr. Schittenhelm Pharma. It has a flexible, lily-shaped (water lily) polyethylene frame, a 380 mm² copper wire and handmade 18-carat gold rings on the side arms. It comes in Mini and Normal sizes. The recommended duration of use is 5 years.

Features highlighted by the manufacturer:

• It contains no hormones; ovulation continues.
• The gold rings improve ultrasound visibility and, according to the manufacturer, support local tolerance.
• Two size options allow it to fit different uterine dimensions.
• The insertion tube is thin (about 3 mm), with the aim of reducing the risk of trauma during the procedure.
• Fertility returns immediately after removal.

At SoftCare, GoldLuna EXCLUSIVE is a frequently chosen model, especially for women who do not want hormones, are breastfeeding or have not given birth. If stock and the woman’s anatomy allow, Eurogine GOLD T or another model may also be used.

Other manufacturers and models

How it differs from a classic copper IUD

A gold IUD is still a copper IUD. It contains no hormones. The gold is there for the wire’s durability and corrosion resistance; it does not promise “more effective contraception”. Bleeding and cramps may increase in the first months. The right size and proper placement at the fundus reduce complaints.

Who it is considered for, and who should not use it

Suitable candidates:

• Women who do not want or cannot use hormones
• Breastfeeding women (4–6 weeks after birth, once uterine involution is complete)
• Women who have or have not given birth (the short / Mini size is more often preferred for those who have not given birth)
• Those who want a long-term method that requires no daily remembering

Contraindications (same as for a copper IUD + gold sensitivity):

• Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
• Active pelvic infection or septic abortion within the last 3 months
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Wilson’s disease or copper allergy
• Gold allergy (for gold-containing models)
• Uterine malformation, large fibroids or polyps (if they prevent placement at the fundus)
• Active cervical cancer or an untreated high-grade cervical lesion

An IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Insertion and follow-up

Insertion is performed by a gynecologist. First, a pelvic examination and ultrasound assess the size and position of the uterus and the endometrium. Hysterometry is performed. The appropriate size is chosen from Short / Medium / Large (or Mini / Normal / Maxi).

The procedure can be done in the office under local anesthesia or brief sedation. For women who have not given birth, a short model and experienced insertion can reduce pain. After insertion, the threads are trimmed and the position is checked by ultrasound.

A check-up is usually done after 4–6 weeks. The threads are checked and placement is confirmed by ultrasound. Annual gynecological check-ups and smear/HPV screening continue. The device is removed when its duration ends or whenever the woman wishes. Fertility returns immediately after removal.

Our approach at SoftCare Clinic

At SoftCare, GoldLuna EXCLUSIVE is usually the first choice for gold IUD insertions. Eurogine GOLD T, Juno Gold and other CE-marked models are also used in clinical practice. First, the woman’s history, any previous IUD experience, uterine size, breastfeeding status and hormone preference are discussed. The uterus is measured by ultrasound, and the appropriate size is chosen from Short / Medium / Large.

Insertion is performed under sterile conditions under the supervision of a specialist physician. A thread and ultrasound check after the procedure is standard. A follow-up visit is recommended after 4–6 weeks.

Appointments: +90 212 241 30 10 · softcareclinic.com

Listing a source does not mean that SoftCare wrote that text.

Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Şükrü Sanus, Obstetrician & Gynecologist · Last medical review: 2 October 2026