An IUD is an intrauterine device used for birth control. IUDs use copper, sometimes combined with spermicides, to prevent sperm from fertilizing the eggs so you do not become pregnant. Many women prefer IUDs over birth control pills and diaphragms because the IUD remains in place and provides continual birth control, while pills must be taken every day without forgetting and diaphragms must be inserted before sex and worn for several hours afterward.

What is the IUD placement procedure like?

IUDs are placed during a simple in-office procedure that takes just a few minutes to perform. The procedure begins the same way as a routine pelvic exam. A lubricated speculum is used to gently widen the vaginal canal so the IUD can be inserted through the cervical opening. In some cases, a local anesthetic may be used to numb the cervix before insertion, but most women experience very little discomfort. Once the position of the IUD is confirmed, the speculum is removed and the procedure is complete.

How can I tell if my IUD is properly positioned?

Your IUD comes “equipped” with a long tail that extends into your vagina. Following insertion, you’ll be asked to feel for the tail so you know how to find it. Before having sex, you always should feel for the tail to ensure the IUD is still in the proper place.

Although it happens rarely, an IUD can fall out. That’s why it’s extremely important to check for the IUD tail before engaging in sex. If you cannot locate the tail, contact the office right away to schedule an appointment. In some cases, you may need a simple in-office procedure to determine if the IUD is inside your uterus or if it has fallen out completely.

IUD Placement Specialist

Maiden Lane Medical

Multi-Specialty Group Practice located New York, NY

New York City practice, Maiden Lane Medical offers hormonal and non-hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) to provide women with convenient birth control options based on their personal preferences and needs. They use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to place IUDs.

“Everyone is friendly, informative, and thoughtful. I feel that I’m in very good hands here!”

AMY

What is an intrauterine device (IUD)?

An IUD is a small device that your doctor or nurse inserts into your uterus to prevent pregnancy. In addition, you might hear IUDs called LARC — which stands for long-acting reversible contraception.

IUDs are one of the most effective contraception methods. They’re more than 99% effective.

These small T-shaped pieces of plastic can stay in place and prevent pregnancy for between 3-12 years, depending on the type of IUD you choose: copper or hormonal.

How does an IUD work?

Copper and hormonal IUDs prevent pregnancy in different ways.

Copper (hormone-free) IUDs

Paragard® is the copper IUD that uses copper to prevent pregnancy. The device is wrapped with copper wire that interferes with the way sperm move. The metal prevents sperm from reaching an egg.

Hormonal IUDs

There are several types of hormonal IUD: Mirena®, Kyleena®, Liletta®, and Skyla®. These options release the hormone progestin, which creates a hostile environment for sperm and prevents them from reaching and implanting in an egg.

What should I expect during the IUD insertion procedure?

Getting an IUD is a simple in-office procedure that takes just a few minutes for your doctor or nurse to perform. IUD insertion begins the same way as a routine pelvic exam. First, your gynecologist places a lubricated speculum into your vagina to gently widen the vaginal canal.

Your provider may numb your cervix with a local anesthetic before dilating your cervix and inserting the IUD into the uterus.

You might feel some pressure and cramping during the insertion, but it’s usually complete within a matter of minutes. You can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever before your procedure to reduce discomfort.

Once your gynecologist confirms the insertion, they remove the speculum, and your placement procedure is complete.

What should I expect after my IUD insertion?

Some women feel fine after getting an IUD, while others might have some cramping. You might also have some spotting after you get your IUD. Depending on the type of IUD, you may have light spotting for up to six months.

You might want to plan on taking it easy after your appointment in either case. You can use heating pads and over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any discomfort.

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646-518-9711

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646-290-9560

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What are the benefits of an IUD?

In addition to being extremely effective, once your IUD is in place, you don’t need to think about it again. For example, one of the reasons that the pill has a lower effectiveness rate is because you need to take it at the same time every day for full protection.

Non-hormonal IUDs are immediately reversible. You can get pregnant as soon as your doctor removes the device.

A copper IUD is also an excellent option if you have had intolerable side effects from hormonal contraception such as mood swings or weight gain.

Copper IUDs can also act as emergency birth control if your doctor performs the insertion within 120 hours of having unprotected sex.

Many women opt for Mirena® or other hormonal options as they can make their periods lighter and reduce cramping.

How can I tell if my IUD is positioned correctly?

Your IUD has a string that extends into your vagina. Following insertion, you’ll be asked to feel for the string — it feels like a piece of fishing line — so you know how to find it.

Before having sex, you should always feel for the tail to ensure the IUD is still in the proper place.

Have more questions?

Chat with us online!
Use our webchat in the lower right hand of your screen

What happens during IUD removal?

IUD removal is a quick in-office procedure. When your device expires, or you’re ready to try to get pregnant, schedule an appointment at Maiden Lane Medical.

Much like IUD insertion, you recline on the treatment table with your feet in stirrups. Your doctor inserts a speculum to open your vaginal canal.

Next, they use a thin set of forceps to grasp the string of your IUD and gently pull it out of your uterus.

They can replace your IUD at this time or offer a different type of birth control if you want to continue to prevent pregnancy.

How do I know if an IUD is right for me?

The Maiden Lane Medical team provides consultations and exams to help determine the best type of birth control for you. IUDs are versatile and suitable for almost everyone.

Call the office or request an appointment online today to learn more about IUDs and if it’s a good contraceptive option for you.