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Intrauterine Device (IUD) Insertion: Care Instructions

Two types of intrauterine devices or IUDs

Overview

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a very effective method of birth control. It is a small, plastic, T-shaped device that uses copper or hormones to prevent pregnancy. The healthcare provider places the IUD into your uterus. Plastic strings tied to the end of the IUD hang down through the cervix into the vagina. Your healthcare provider may teach you how to check the placement of your IUD by feeling the strings.

You can have an IUD inserted at any time, as long as you aren't pregnant and you don't have a pelvic infection. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about any health problems you have or medicines you take. The IUD can also be placed right after you have a baby.

There are two types of IUDs. The copper IUD works for 10 years. The hormonal IUD works for 5 years. Talk to your healthcare provider about which IUD is right for you and how long you can use it. The hormonal IUD also usually reduces menstrual bleeding and cramping.

How well it works

IUDs are more than 99% effective for preventing pregnancy. That means every year, fewer than 1 out of 100 people who use an IUD as directed will have an unplanned pregnancy.

The copper IUD protects you from pregnancy as soon as it’s put in.

If a hormonal IUD is put in on:

  • Day 1 to 5 of your period, or if you are inserting a new IUD before your old one expires, it works right away to prevent pregnancy.
  • Any other day, use an extra method of birth control (such as condoms) or don’t have vaginal sex for 7 days.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your healthcare provider or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

  • It's safe to use while breastfeeding.
  • You may experience some mild cramping and light bleeding (spotting) for 1 or 2 days. Use a hot water bottle or a heating pad set on low on your belly for pain.
  • With a hormonal IUD, there is a chance of side effects, such as headaches, tender breasts, acne, or mood changes. These will likely go away after the first 3 months.
  • Take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve) if needed. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the healthcare provider told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
  • If you want to check the string of your IUD, insert a finger into your vagina and feel for the cervix, which is at the top of the vagina and feels harder than the rest of your vagina. You should be able to feel the thin, plastic string coming out of the opening of your cervix. If you cannot feel the string, use another form of birth control and make an appointment with your healthcare provider to have the string checked.
  • If the IUD comes out, save it and call your healthcare provider or nurse advice line. Be sure to use another form of birth control while the IUD is out.
  • Use condoms to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea and chlamydia. An IUD does not protect you from STIs.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • You passed out (lost consciousness).
  • You have sudden, severe pain in your belly or pelvis.

Call your healthcare provider or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have new belly or pelvic pain.
  • You have severe vaginal bleeding. This means that you are soaking through your usual pads every hour for 2 or more hours.
  • You are dizzy or light-headed, or you feel like you may faint.
  • You have a fever and pelvic pain or vaginal discharge.
  • You have pelvic pain that is getting worse.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your healthcare provider or nurse advice line if:

  • You cannot feel the string, or the IUD comes out.
  • You think you may be pregnant.

Where can you learn more?

Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter U681 in the search box to learn more about "Intrauterine Device (IUD) Insertion: Care Instructions".

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