An IUD (intrauterine device) offers safe, effective, long-lasting contraception. This small, T-shaped device is positioned inside the uterus and has the potential to protect you from getting pregnant for 3-10 years, depending on the type.
Correct preparation for your IUD insertion appointment will help ensure everything goes smoothly.
Understanding What to Expect
When you arrive for your IUD insertion, you’ll provide a urine sample so the doctor can confirm you are not pregnant before proceeding.
You’ll undress from the waist down and lie on the exam table with your feet positioned in stirrups, as would happen with a pelvic exam. The doctor will do an internal exam to assess how big your uterus is and its position.
For the IUD insertion, the doctor will employ a speculum to gently open your vagina to be able to reach your cervix. The cervix will be cleaned, and a slim instrument will be inserted through the cervical opening and into the uterus to place the IUD correctly.
You may experience cramping during this process. The thin IUD strings will be trimmed and left hanging a few centimeters so the IUD’s placement can be verified later. From start to finish, the insertion generally takes just a few minutes.
Eating Well and Staying Hydrated
It’s best not to have an empty stomach before your IUD insertion. Eat a snack or a small meal so you aren’t starving. Being overly hungry can sometimes lead to feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
Drinking plenty of water is also important. Staying well hydrated can help prevent those unpleasant sensations some women experience when standing up after the insertion.
Taking a Pain Reliever
You may experience cramping during and right after getting your IUD. An OTC pain medication such as ibuprofen can help relieve many of these cramps.
Take the ibuprofen 30 minutes before your appointment time, so it has time to kick in. The medication will then already be working to alleviate discomfort during the insertion procedure.
What to Wear to Your Appointment
For your comfort, wear loose-fitting clothing to your insertion appointment. Items such as soft pants, a dress, or a skirt are ideal since they won’t put pressure on your abdomen. You’ll need to remove your clothing below the waist, so wear underwear you don’t mind exposing.
A special sanitary pad will be provided after the insertion to catch any spotting initially. Consider bringing your own pad or panty liner to change into afterward as a backup.
Caring for Yourself Afterwards
It’s typical to have some light bleeding and cramping for a few days to weeks following IUD insertion as your body adjusts.
OTC pain relievers can minimize any discomfort you feel. Heating pads placed on the abdomen may also provide relief.
You should avoid strenuous activity for between one and two days. That means steering clear of vigorous exercise and heavy lifting of anything that’s 30 lbs or more.
Do not insert anything such as tampons or sex toys into the vagina for at least 5-7 days to lower infection risks. It is best not to have sex for a week after IUD insertion.
Be sure to keep your follow-up visit with your doctor to have the IUD placement checked four to six weeks later.
Contact your physician right away if you have concerns about possible improper positioning, heavy bleeding, severe cramps, pain during sex, vaginal odor or fever.
Looking Ahead with Your IUD
Once settled in after those first few weeks, an IUD offers exceptional contraception without maintenance or effort on your part. The device prevents pregnancy for years.
With typical use, the IUD is above 99% effective for pregnancy prevention. That means you can rest easy knowing your chances of becoming pregnant are extremely low.
There is no need to remember daily pills or use condoms to make sure you avoid getting pregnant (though it’s still wise to use condoms to prevent contracting a sexually transmitted infection).
IUDs free you to enjoy intimacy whenever the mood strikes. Of course, no birth control is 100% perfect at preventing pregnancy.
If you were to get pregnant with your IUD, it could lead to severe complications such as ectopic pregnancy, preterm birth or miscarriage.
That’s why it’s essential to contact your doctor promptly about a suspected pregnancy so that.. any potential issues can be promptly identified and managed.
Rely on Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness for Smooth IUD Insertion
The Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness team has extensive IUD experience. We take time to thoughtfully discuss your options to decide if an IUD fits your family planning needs.
Skilled insertion and follow-up care help ensure our patients have the best possible results with their IUDs. We also treat any gynecologic issues that arise to support optimal well-being.
Contact us today at (919) 636-6670 or online to learn more or schedule a consultation.