How painful is an iud removal?

IUDs, or intrauterine devices, are a popular form of birth control that offer long-term protection against pregnancy. While they may be effective and convenient for many women, there comes a time when the IUD needs to be removed. But just how painful is this procedure? In this article, we’ll explore what happens during an IUD removal and what you can expect in terms of discomfort.

What is an IUD?

Before delving into the ins and outs of IUD removal, it’s important to understand what these devices are. An intrauterine device is a small T-shaped object made out of plastic or copper that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. There are two types: hormonal (which release synthetic progesterone) and non-hormonal (which use copper as their contraceptive mechanism). The device serves as contraception by preventing sperm from reaching the egg; if fertilization does occur, it prevents implantation.

When Should You Get Your IUD Removed?

An IUD should typically be removed after 3-10 years, depending on which type was inserted. Hormonal ones last longer than their copper counterparts – up to ten years versus five respectively – but both need replacing eventually.

There might actually be different reasons why someone would want to remove their Inta-Uterine Device:

  1. It has reached its expiration date
  2. It caused unbearable side effects
  3. Decided with partner/family planning

In any case, removing your device holds little health risks besides natural spotting/discomfort since it is easily reversible^® .

What Happens During an IUD Removal Procedure?

When you have decided it’s time for your intrauterine device to come out(a.k.a “eviction day”), make sure you schedule 30 minutes to an hour of free time in a single sitting.💡 This will allow your doctor plenty of time for the procedure and you enough recovery/rest period as well.

The procedure itself is fairly simple, but still might raise some questions, such as:

  • What kind of medical professional should I see?
  • Will there be any prep involved?
  • Can they give me anesthesia?

Which Medical Professional Should You See for IUD Removal?

Any skilled health care provider can remove intrauterine devices.

You may opt to return to the same physician or visit another gynecologist/doctor (depending on which works best with your schedule). Inappropriate scenarios that doesn’t cover seeking help from specialists are those who have specific conditions like pregnancy or cancer.

Is There Any Preparation Involved Before The Procedure Commences?

No special preparation is necessary before an IUD removal, however…be warned: it’s not uncommon for doctors conducting this procedure advise their patients beforehand, trying out gentle coping mechanisms. Examples could include slow rhythmic breathing exercises or even doing crossword puzzles^®. ✌

But really folks,this isn’t rocket science.

Pain Relief During Removal

Anesthesia during removal is generally unnecessary–but also depends on how one copes with pain inflammation receptors^™️ . Your gynecologist tends to start off by asking if you would like a local anesthetic (lidocaine) injected—in advance thereof deciding together what next course (if any) of action would better suit you!

How Does It Feel To Have Your IUD Removed?

Now we’re getting around to what most people want answers for- But after thorough investigation and research here we go:

Discomfort Level

Pain levels during IUD removals vary depending upon many factors i.e., where exactly it was implanted when inserted, your pain threshold, if any instrumentation will have to be used^¡™️. The amount of discomfort experienced when the IUD is being removed depends on individual tolerance and expertise of the doctor handling it (no pressure). But always remember that whatever sensations^(;) you might feel shall not last long.

What You Can Expect During Procedure

The process usually transpires in these steps:

  1. First, a speculum is inserted into your vagina so your provider can see your cervix
  2. The strings attached to the IUD are located and gently grasped with forceps
  3. Once held securely, the device itself will start coming out unceremoniously- a slow tug feeling.
  4. Much gratitude for bearing with us here while picturing step THREE.

For most people, these procedures produce moderate discomfort, which many compare to strong menstrual cramps or slight pinching feelings; some even describe their experiences as uncomfortable than getting shots 💉! There may also be some minor bleeding or spotting after removal but it tends to stop within several days at most( just like minor period mishaps).

Aftercare Following an IUD Removal

Your healthcare provider should give clear instructions about what actions to take afterwards;as sometimes intercourse poses risks – this normally leads up/down towards explanation how quickly things can return back “to normal”. Some additional readjustment time forces others’ vaginas back kept closed for security reasons until health checks out! 🍆🚫😷 Smooches excluded during recovery times girls!

Recovery Time Frame: Less Than A Day To Several Weeks

There may be mild pain/cramping right after removal 🔪 but OTC/nsaid(motrin) help solve that quickishness fast! It’s possible one could experience heavier periods post-IUD^^©^[lol] ,but unless heightened levels of abdominal/pelvic distress occurs,you’ll be back into the swing of things within no later than 24 hours -96 after removal.

Sexual Activity

If you’re feeling good and spicy hot, it’s usually safe to resume sexual activity as soon as you feel like once following your medical procedures. However; always make sure your partner uses another form of protection if trying to avoid pregnancy or STIs! Or until couple plans on reinserting a replacement IUD (if that’s what they’re planning).

Exceptional Cases After Removal

Other extreme occurrences might consist of severe abdominal pain,abnormal discharge(which is nigh given for some) or prolonged cramps AND bleeding–which all indicate(and this isn’t rocket science folks) something serious is happening- alert medical attention at once^^®.

One final reassurance reminder:
The discomfort experienced during an IUD removal will most likely not be as severe as when getting Lasik eye surgery^ . And remember: “Pain is temporary…”

…except maybe in labor!!!

Conclusion

I hope we’ve managed to put at ease some curious minds about the experience one could expect while retrieving their IUD from a healthcare provider. Like any procedure or decision important enough it should require consideration prior – however remembering also everybitches bodies react differently so reading up or discussing with friends who’ve had similar experiences before proceeding, all whilst keeping yourself informed those very experiences,discussions can provide essential bearings going forth!

Godspeed fellow uterus owners!!! 😆❤️

@findapanda