If you are considering an intrauterine device, or IUD, it is natural to have questions about what the insertion involves. You may be wondering whether it will hurt, how you should prepare, how long the procedure takes and what recovery is like afterwards.
An IUD is a long-acting, reversible form of contraception that is placed inside the uterus by a trained healthcare professional. Hormonal IUDs available in Australia include Mirena and Kyleena.
At Bloom Women’s Health, our Brisbane gynaecologists provide consultations to help women understand their contraceptive options and decide whether an IUD may be appropriate for their individual circumstances.
This guide explains what you may experience before, during and after an IUD insertion.
What Happens Before an IUD Insertion?
Before having an IUD inserted, you will generally have a consultation with your doctor or gynaecologist.
This is an important part of the process because an IUD is not necessarily suitable for everyone. Your doctor may ask about your medical history, menstrual cycle, previous pregnancies, current contraception, medications and any previous gynaecological conditions or procedures.
Depending on your circumstances, your doctor may also discuss:
- whether pregnancy needs to be excluded before insertion
- whether testing for sexually transmitted infections is appropriate
- when during your menstrual cycle the IUD should be inserted
- your current method of contraception
- pain management options
- the benefits and possible risks of IUD insertion
- what you may experience after the procedure.
If you are deciding between hormonal devices, your doctor can also explain the differences between Mirena and Kyleena.
Bloom Women’s Health provides further information about IUD contraception, Mirena, Kyleena, insertion and removal in Brisbane.
How Should I Prepare for an IUD Insertion?
Preparation can vary depending on your health, the type of IUD and your doctor’s usual procedure.
Your healthcare professional will provide instructions relevant to your circumstances. These may include advice about your existing contraception, the timing of your appointment and whether you need to obtain the IUD from a pharmacy beforehand.
Your doctor may also discuss pain relief options before the procedure.
It is important to follow the specific instructions provided by your treating healthcare professional rather than relying on general advice, as individual requirements can differ.
If you are feeling nervous about the insertion, let your healthcare professional know. Your consultation is an opportunity to ask questions and discuss what will happen at each stage of the procedure.
What Happens During an IUD Insertion?
The IUD is inserted through the cervix and positioned inside the uterus.
You will usually lie on an examination bed in a similar position to that used for a cervical screening test. A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina so the healthcare professional can see the cervix.
The clinician may then measure the uterus before passing the IUD through the cervix using a specialised insertion device. Once the IUD is positioned inside the uterus, the insertion device is removed and the IUD strings are trimmed.
The actual insertion generally takes only a few minutes, although your overall appointment will take longer to allow time for preparation, assessment and recovery afterwards.
Does IUD Insertion Hurt?
One of the most common questions about IUD insertion is whether the procedure is painful.
There is no single answer because people’s experiences vary considerably. Some women experience mild to moderate cramping or discomfort, while others may experience more significant pain during the procedure.
Cramping can occur as instruments pass through the cervix and the IUD is positioned within the uterus.
Your doctor can discuss pain management options before your appointment. If you have concerns about pain, have previously found pelvic examinations difficult or have experienced a painful gynaecological procedure, tell your healthcare professional beforehand.
It is reasonable to ask what pain relief options are available and what to expect before deciding whether to proceed.
What Happens Immediately After IUD Insertion?
Some cramping, light bleeding or spotting can occur after an IUD has been inserted.
You may be asked to remain at the clinic briefly following the procedure, particularly if you feel dizzy, faint or uncomfortable.
Everyone responds differently. Some women feel ready to return to their usual activities relatively quickly, while others prefer to take things more slowly for the remainder of the day.
Your healthcare professional should give you specific aftercare instructions before you leave the clinic.
Is Bleeding Normal After an IUD Insertion?
Some bleeding or spotting after insertion can be expected.
With hormonal IUDs such as Mirena and Kyleena, changes to your menstrual bleeding pattern are also common during the first few months after insertion. This may include irregular bleeding or spotting while your body adjusts.
Bleeding patterns can differ considerably between individuals and between different types of IUDs.
Mirena may also be considered for some women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding. Bloom Women’s Health has further information about hormonal IUDs such as Mirena and heavy menstrual bleeding.
If bleeding is particularly heavy, persists in a way that concerns you or is accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice.
How Long Does Cramping Last After an IUD Insertion?
Period-like cramping can occur immediately after an IUD is inserted and may continue for a short period afterwards.
The amount and duration of cramping varies between individuals. For many people it gradually improves after the procedure.
Contact your doctor if you experience severe pain, pain that is getting worse rather than improving or symptoms that are different from what your healthcare professional advised you to expect.
How Soon Does an IUD Start Working?
This depends on the type of IUD and when it is inserted in relation to your menstrual cycle and previous contraception.
A hormonal IUD may not always provide contraceptive protection immediately after insertion. In some circumstances, additional contraception may be required for a short period.
Your doctor will tell you when you can rely on your IUD for contraception based on your individual circumstances.
Remember that an IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Condoms may still be appropriate where STI protection is required.
Mirena or Kyleena – Does the Insertion Process Differ?
Mirena and Kyleena are both hormonal IUDs containing levonorgestrel and are inserted using a similar clinical procedure.
Kyleena is slightly smaller and contains a lower amount of levonorgestrel than Mirena. Kyleena provides contraception for up to five years, while Mirena can provide contraception for up to eight years when used for this purpose.
There are also differences in their approved uses and their effects on menstrual bleeding.
The choice between Mirena and Kyleena should therefore be based on more than the insertion procedure itself. Your medical history, menstrual symptoms, contraceptive goals and preferences can all form part of the discussion with your doctor.
When Should You Seek Medical Advice After IUD Insertion?
Your healthcare professional should explain which symptoms may require further assessment.
You should seek medical advice if you experience symptoms that concern you after insertion, particularly:
- significant or worsening pelvic or abdominal pain
- unusually heavy bleeding
- fever or feeling significantly unwell
- unusual vaginal discharge
- pain during sexual intercourse
- concerns that the IUD may have moved or come out.
These symptoms do not necessarily mean there is a complication, but they should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
What About IUD Removal or Replacement?
An IUD does not have to remain in place for its full approved duration. It can be removed by a trained healthcare professional if you want to become pregnant, change contraception, experience side effects or no longer wish to use the device.
When an IUD reaches the end of its recommended duration, a replacement may sometimes be inserted at the same appointment as removal.
If you are considering removal or replacement, speak with your doctor about timing, particularly if avoiding pregnancy remains important.
Considering IUD Insertion in Brisbane?
Choosing contraception is a personal decision, and the most appropriate option depends on your medical history, health needs and preferences.
A consultation provides an opportunity to discuss how Mirena and Kyleena work, what an IUD insertion involves, possible risks and side effects, and whether another form of contraception might better suit your circumstances.
The gynaecologists at Bloom Women’s Health provide IUD insertion consultations in Brisbane, as well as IUD removal and replacement. You can learn more about IUD contraception at Bloom Women’s Health or contact the clinic to arrange an appointment.
The information provided in this blog is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual experiences with contraception and IUD insertion can vary. Speak with your doctor, gynaecologist or another qualified healthcare professional for advice based on your medical history and circumstances.