In consultation with your GP, you may choose to have an IUD inserted; this can usually be done at the GP practice itself.
The GP usually inserts the IUD during or shortly after your period (between the 1st and 7th day from the start of your period). This ensures you are not pregnant. The IUD also provides immediate protection against pregnancy. If you have the IUD inserted on a different day, you may need to take a pregnancy test first to ensure you are not pregnant.
You can take a painkiller one hour before the insertion. This can reduce pain during and after the procedure. For example, take:
paracetamol: two 500 mg tablets or naproxen: one 500 mg tablet.
Please inform your GP if you might have an STI. The GP will usually ask about this as well. Sometimes a test and/or treatment is required. If you have an STI during insertion, you may develop an infection of the ovaries.
You will lie down with your legs apart. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to clearly see the cervix. The cervix is held with special forceps. Then, the depth of the uterus is measured with a small rod. This may cause an uncomfortable sensation. The IUD is then inserted through a thin tube. Two strings are attached to it, which hang from the cervix. These strings are necessary for removing the IUD later. The tube is withdrawn, and the strings are cut to size.
After the insertion of an IUD, you may feel dizzy for a moment. Once you feel well again, you may go home immediately. The GP will discuss with you whether a follow-up appointment is necessary. If you took a painkiller beforehand, it will continue to work for a few hours. If you did not take a painkiller, you can still do so afterwards if necessary.
Note in your calendar when the IUD was inserted, which type of IUD it is, and when it needs to be replaced. This ensures you can have the IUD replaced or removed on time.
When to call regarding an IUD?
Contact your GP on the same day if you experience one or more of these symptoms in the first few days after the IUD insertion:
- unusual discharge or mucus from your vagina (for example, much more than you are used to, with a different color or a strong odor)
- severe abdominal pain that does not go away or becomes increasingly worse
- fever
- heavy vaginal blood loss
Also contact your GP if one or more of the following apply to you:
- You have persistent discharge, abdominal pain, or blood loss.
- You have an IUD and believe you may be pregnant.
- You think the IUD is no longer in the correct position.
- You want to have your IUD replaced or removed.
IUD and menopause
Are you going through menopause? You can stop using contraceptives one year after your last period. This is usually around the age of 52. The chance of pregnancy after that is very small.
If you received a new hormonal IUD after the age of 45, you can have it removed at age 52.
If you feel uncertain about this, you can temporarily use a condom, for example for 6 months.
Discuss it with your GP if you are still having monthly periods. In that case, you might still be able to get pregnant.
Removal
The GP removes the IUD by pulling on the strings. This is very quick. It causes brief pain. It is less painful than the insertion. If you do not wish to become pregnant after removal, please follow these recommendations:
- Do not have sex or only use a condom for 7 days prior to the removal.
- Alternatively, have the IUD removed while you are on your period.
- Have a new IUD inserted immediately, or choose another method of contraception.
Do you wish to become pregnant? Prepare yourself well. Start taking folic acid before you have the IUD removed.
