IUD insertion in Phoenix, Arizona

An IUD (intrauterine device) insertion takes 10-15 minutes and prevents pregnancy, reduces period (menstrual) bleeding, cramps, pelvic pain, and lasts 3 to 10 years. While the initial insertion can be uncomfortable, once inserted most patients can't feel the IUD.

What Is an IUD?

An IUD is a tiny, flexible T-shaped device that alters how sperm cells move, preventing contact with a patient's egg. These devices are an ideal choice for birth control, as they reduce the risk of human error. For example, you don't need to worry about missed pills.

There are five types of IUDs:

• Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla are hormonal IUDs. They release a small amount of levonorgestrel, a progestin hormone. Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla are effective for 3 to 5 years. Mirena is effective for 8 years.
• ParaGard is a hormone-free device wrapped in copper, which is effective for up to 10 years.

How Does IUD Insertion Feel?

The entire IUD insertion appointment takes around 30 minutes, yet only a few of those minutes are spent physically inserting the device. When put in, you may feel cramping or pain, which ranges from mild cramping to severe discomfort. Pain levels may be more significant if you have never given birth or you have experienced previous trauma in the area.

There are a few options to manage pain and discomfort. Before the procedure, speak with your care provider about:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers: You can typically take ibuprofen or acetaminophen one hour before your appointment.
• Local anesthesia: Some patients receive a numbing agent, which can be applied to the cervix via spray or gel, or it can also be injected for local pain relief.
• Misoprostol: Although not commonly used, misoprostol may be given to those who have had a difficult insertion in the past. This medication opens up the cervix to make insertion easier. It is not recommended for everyone.

Preparing for an IUD Insertion

Once your IUD insertion appointment is booked, you can do several things to prepare.

The first is to make post-appointment arrangements. While many do drive after the insertion process, it is ideal to bring someone with you just in case you experience pain or dizziness. Some are fine to carry on with their day as usual, while others prefer to recover in bed for the rest of the day. If you are able to take off work or reschedule other obligations, it is recommended that you do so.

Next, gather what you may need in advance, including:

• A heating pad
• Ice packs
• Panty liners
• An OTC pain medication
• Reading material
• Materials for any other activity you can do while resting
• Breathable, comfy clothing

What Will Happen During the Appointment?

While steps may vary from one care provider to the next, here is what you can expect at your IUD insertion appointment:

• If you have not yet talked about which IUD you will receive, your care provider may discuss your medical history to select the best option. They will then explain the procedure so that you can ask any questions before filling out required forms.
• If you wish to take pain medication, you can do so. An oral pain medication may be offered by your care provider, unless you took something before you arrived.
• As long as you're not menstruating, you will take a pregnancy test.
• You will change into a gown and get into the right position. Your care provider will guide you.
• Much like a pelvic exam, your care provider will insert a speculum. This device allows your care provider to see the cervix more clearly.
• The IUD is inserted through the cervix into your uterus using a tube. This step is when you may feel pressure, discomfort, or pain.
• There will then be a brief recovery period in the office so the medical professionals can keep an eye on any bleeding or cramping.

What to Expect After an IUD Insertion

It is possible to experience some side effects, as listed in this article, including:

• Cramping
• Nausea
• Spotting
• Dizziness

To ease any discomfort, use a heating pad for 20 minutes at a time and take OTC pain relievers. To stay distracted, catch up on a show you love, read a magazine, etc.

There are rare instances when more serious complications arise, such as an infection or expulsion, which is when the IUD moves out of the uterus. If you are experiencing increasingly worsening pain or heavy bleeding in the days after your IUD insertion, contact your primary care provider.

Is the IUD Effective Immediately?

Your IUD will be effective immediately if you get a copper IUD, you get a hormonal IUD while on your period, or you get a hormonal IUD inserted (and you've been taking another form of hormonal birth control up until the day of your IUD insertion).

Your hormonal IUD is NOT effective immediately if you're not on your period when you get the IUD or if you're not taking another form of hormonal birth control when you get the IUD. In these cases, you'll have to use backup birth control for seven days after insertion.

Speak With Your Primary Care Provider

Would you like to discuss the IUD insertion process with a healthcare professional?

Find a primary care provider near you to get started today. At Corner Health you can find a primary care provider with twice the time of a typical visit, with appointments that cost only $30 on average while all major insurance are accepted on same-day, evening, and Saturday openings.