How Do I Get an IUD?
IUDs are inserted into the uterus by a doctor. Before the doctor actually inserts the IUD, there are a series of steps to make sure that it is an appropriate method of birth control for the individual woman.
Before Instertion:
- Medical History: The doctor will ask you about your medical history and your lifestyle. It is extremely important to be completely honest about your sex life because the IUD is not always the best choice for some women.
For example, the doctor will want to make sure that the woman is in a monogamous relationship (she only has sex with one other person and that person has no other sex partners).
- Pelvic Exam: The doctor will perform a pelvic exam to make sure both the cervix and the vagina are normal.
- Bimanual Exam: After the pelvic exam, the doctor will feel the size, shape, and position of the uterus and ovaries by putting one or two fingers into the vagina and placing the other hand on the abdomen.
Planning the Insertion: While the IUD can be inserted at any time, usually the most comfortable time is during the woman's period because at that time the cervix is softer. Also, the menstrual fluid acts as lubrication for the insertion, and the woman's chance of being pregnant during menstruation is very low.
The Insertion Process: Sometimes the doctor will tell the woman to take an over-the-counter painkiller to reduce the cramps that the insertion may cause. Additionally, the doctor might give the woman an antibiotic to prevent against possible infection as a result of insertion.
For the actual insertion, a doctor will use a speculum to hold the vagina open. Then an instrument called a tenaculum keeps the uterus steady by attaching to the cervix. Sometimes the doctor measures the length of the uterus and cervical canal with a tool called a sound. Finally, the doctor inserts a tube containing the IUD. The arms of the T bend back as the IUD is pushed into place; once it is placed, the arms open up into the standard T shape.
Everything but the IUD is removed, leaving the string hanging through the cervix into the vagina.
Sometimes during insertion, cramping can occur and be somewhat uncomfortable. By breathing slowly and deeply the woman may reduce the discomfort. While most women sail through the insertion with nothing more than mild cramps, some women with sensitive cervical tissue may need a local anesthetic.
After Insertion: Doctors usually recommend having someone there to drive or escort the woman home. Once she is home, she should rest until she is comfortable.
Most women don't have problems adjusting to their new IUDs; however, some women can take several months to fully adjust. There can be heavy bleeding and cramping during the first few months, but doctors can prescribe medication to reduce bleeding and cramps.
After the woman's first period with the IUD, she should go in for a check up to make sure it is still in place. Also, all women with IUDs need to check them regularly between periods and examine their pads or tampons each day during menstruation to make sure the IUD was not expelled. Finally, every woman should go to the doctor at least once a year in order to make sure her IUD is as it should be.
