IUDs are a wonderfully reliable and convenient method of long-term contraception. Once IUD is inserted in your uterus, some types of IUDs remain safe and effective for years. At some point in time, your IUD will need to be removed. Removal may be required because you are ready to become pregnant, your hormonal IUD has expired and is no longer effective, you want to try another type of device or other health reasons. Here is what to expect after an IUD removal.
How Are IUDs Removed?
Removing an IUD is a simple process done in your doctor’s office. If you have a hormonal type of device, its effectiveness expires within a set number of years. If you have a non-hormonal copper IUD, it has to be removed after ten years. To protect yourself against pregnancy, you must replace it with another device or another form of contraception.
Timing Of The Removal
If you have a hormonal IUD, you should not wait too long after its expiration to have it removed. Not only does an expired hormonal IUD become less reliable as a contraceptive device, delaying its removal can complicate the removal process and create some health risks to you.
Removal Process
To remove your IUD, you should first consult with your doctor and schedule an appointment to have it removed. The removal process is usually fast and easy. It can be done at any time of the month in your cycle. No drugs or anesthesia are needed. If you are prone to cramping or pain during your periods, you can take an over the counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or naproxen about 30 minutes ahead of time.
During the removal procedure, you will lie down on the exam table like you would for a pelvic examination. Your doctor will insert a speculum and find the IUD strings that hang into your vagina. Once the strings are located, your doctor will use forceps to gently pull on the strings and and the IUD will come through your cervix, through your vagina, and out of your body. Some patients experience minor cramping as it passes through their cervix.
Minor Complications
Sometimes complications can arise. One complication is when the doctor has trouble locating the strings. In those cases, the doctor may use a small brush or tool to find the strings and pull it out.
In cases where your doctor detects a pelvic infection, you should be treated with antibiotics before having a removal procedure.
Occasionally the doctor may have to dilate a woman’s cervical canal to enable the removal. In rare cases, the doctor might need to use an ultrasound to locate the strings and the device.
What To Expect After An IUD Removal
Once the IUD is removed, you can immediately resume your regular activities, including going back to work, d exercising or running errands around town. Once the IUD is removed, you should expect that you will be fertile. You will need to use another form of contraception if you are not ready for pregnancy.
Side effects that you may experience after removal include:
Potential For Pain And Cramping
The removal process usually causes minor pain and cramping. It should last for only a short time and should resolve in a day or two on its own. If you experience pain that does not go away or fever, you should contact your doctor.
Light Spotting
Many women experience light spotting after removal. This is not a cause for concern and will resolve in a few days. However, if you experience excessive bleeding, you need to contact your doctor.
Irregular Periods
After the removal of a hormonal IUD, your periods may be irregular for a few months. Then, your cycle should return to the way it was before the IUD was inserted.
Speak To A Professional At Raleigh Gynecology And Wellness For More Information On What To Expect After An IUD Removal
Removing an IUD is usually a simple and fast procedure though it is not without some risk and therefore requires a medical professional. Also, you can alleviate some side effects by living a healthy lifestyle. , Follow a healthy diet and exercise daily. If you smoke or drink alcohol, eliminating those habits will improve your body’s ability to recover and will boost your body’s immune system.
To discuss the benefits of various types of IUDs, the insertion process and what to expect after removal, contact the experts at Raleigh Gynecology and Wellness. They have extensive experience with women’s reproductive health, IUDs, and general wellness. Consult with them today and to schedule an appointment.