Why is this procedure done?
Intrauterine device is an IUD. An IUD is placed inside the womb or uterus. The IUD is a small device that is used to stop sperm from reaching an egg. If a sperm cannot join with an egg, pregnancy cannot happen. ‚
IUD removal is when the IUD is taken out. An IUD may be removed for good or it may be replaced with another one. There are many reasons why an IUD may need to be taken out. Your doctor may remove your IUD if you: ‚
- Have side effects like pain or bleeding
- Get infected with a sexually-transmitted disease (STD)
- Become pregnant or want to get pregnant
- Decide to use another kind of birth control
- Reach menopause
- Have an IUD that is expiring because it has been in for a long period of time
- Need treatment and your IUD must be removed
Removing the IUD is easier during your menstrual period. But, the device can be removed anytime you want. Do not remove the IUD by yourself. Serious damage to your reproductive health may result. ‚
What will the results be?
You may become pregnant after your IUD is taken out. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some examples are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about all of your drugs.
- How the IUD is taken out
- Birth control choices for you
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order urine tests.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will lie on a table and put your feet in a foot holder. Your doctor may apply a numbing gel or inject an anesthetic to your cervix. The anesthetic will make you stay pain free and comfortable during the procedure. In some cases, anesthesia is not used.
- Your doctor will put in a tool to hold the walls of the vagina open. Your doctor will clean your vagina with an antiseptic.
- The doctor will look for the strings attached to the IUD. The strings most often hang out of your vagina. You will be asked to take slow, deep breaths to relax. A special tool will be used to hold the strings and pull out the IUD gently.
- You may have a new IUD placed at the same time if you like
- The doctor may need to use a special tool to help take out your IUD. A long thin telescope with a tiny camera on the end may be put into your vagina. This tool will help remove your IUD.
- The procedure will only take a few minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
Cramps and bleeding are normal after the procedure. You can go home right after the procedure. ‚
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what you need to do.
- Talk to your doctor about:
- How long to expect bleeding
- If you can safely use tampons
- When you may have sex and what kind of birth control you should use
- Your plans for more pregnancies
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep your visits. ‚
What problems could happen?
- IUD may not come out easily
- Menstrual problem like cramps or heavy periods
- Tear in your womb
- Pelvic infection
- You are no longer protected from pregnancy
Where can I learn more?
International Planned Parenthood Federation ‚
http://www.ippf.org/en/Resources/Guides-toolkits/Helping+continuing+usersIUD.htm ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚