Why is this procedure done?
Intrauterine device is an IUD. An IUD insertion is when one 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 insertion is also done for emergency contraception after unprotected sex. A hormone-releasing IUD may be used to treat other health problems. Some examples are very heavy periods, pelvic pain, or cancer in the womb. ‚
What will the results be?
You will not get pregnant. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
Your doctor will take your history and: ‚
- Talk with you about the risks and benefits of IUDs and the type of IUDs you can use
- Have you sign a consent form
Your doctor will check your womb, vagina, and other organs. The doctor may order: ‚
- Test for sexually-transmitted diseases (STD)
- A pregnancy test
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 will inject an anesthetic to your cervix. The anesthetic will help you stay pain free and comfortable during the procedure. In some cases, anesthesia is not used.
- Your doctor will use a tool to hold the walls of the vagina open. Your doctor will clean your vagina with an antiseptic.
- A special device will be used to hold the cervix. Another special tool will measure the size of your womb. Your womb is measured to make sure the IUD will fit into your womb.
- Your doctor will place the folded t-shaped IUD into a thin tube. The doctor will put the tube through your vagina into your womb. Your doctor will put the IUD in the proper position. The tube and all tools are removed.
- Strings connected to the IUD may be felt in your vagina. The strings will be about 1 inch long.
- The procedure takes about 5 to 15 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
You may have mild cramping and bleeding for a few days. Your doctor may give you drugs for pain. You can go home right after the procedure. ‚
What care is needed at home?
- You can go back to your normal activities as soon as you feel comfortable.
- Be sure to check the strings in your vagina, if present. Use your finger to check. Do not worry if you cannot feel the strings. Sometimes, the strings are hard to feel or may have been pulled up. Talk with your doctor if You cannot feel the strings.
What follow-up care is needed?
You may need to see your doctor after a month to make sure your IUD is in the right position. 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?
- Menstrual problem like cramps or heavy periods
- Tear in your womb
- Pelvic infections
- IUD falls out or is displaced from the womb
- An IUD does not protect you from STDs.
Helpful tips
There is only one way to avoid pregnancy. This is by not having sex. This is called abstinence. It also protects you from STDs. ‚
Where can I learn more?
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Intrauterine-device-%28IUD%29/Pages/Introduction.aspx ‚
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ‚
http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq014.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20120210T0025104727 ‚
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. ‚