Many women choose an IUD as their preferred method of birth control. An IUD or intrauterine device is a small, T-shaped piece of plastic that’s inserted into your uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and copper. Hormonal IUDs release progestin, which thickens the mucus on the cervix and makes it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Copper IUDs work by creating an inflammatory reaction that is toxic to sperm and eggs. Both types of IUDs are highly effective at preventing pregnancy.
But what happens when you decide to have your IUD removed? Many women wonder what their experience will be like after removing the contraceptive device. This article will provide you with answers to some common questions about what happens after removal.
How is the IUD removed?
The IUD removal process is similar to that of an IUD insertion. Your healthcare provider will insert a speculum into your vagina to open it and then use a tiny string attached to the bottom of the IUD to gently pull it out of the cervix. IUD removal usually takes only a few minutes, and many women experience only mild discomfort or cramping.
What are the side effects of removing the IUD?
The side effects of removing an IUD are generally mild and last only a few days. Some women may experience some cramping or discomfort during the procedure, but this usually subsides quickly. You may experience some spotting or light bleeding for a few days after removal. Some women may experience irregular periods for a month or two after removal, which is normal. Hormonal IUDs can also cause side effects such as acne, mood swings, and decreased sex drive when they are removed. These side effects usually disappear after a few weeks.
When will my fertility return?
Your fertility will return almost immediately after IUD removal. The copper IUD does not affect ovulation, so you can get pregnant as soon as the device is removed. With hormonal IUDs, your fertility will typically return to normal within a month of removal.
What are the chances of getting pregnant after IUD removal?
The chances of getting pregnant after IUD removal vary depending on several factors, including your age and how long you’ve had the IUD. However, the risk of pregnancy is similar to that of women who have never used contraception. According to a study published in the Journal of Women’s Health, women who get pregnant after using an IUD have a similar rate of live births and complications as women who have never used contraception.
Can I get pregnant immediately after IUD removal?
Yes, you can get pregnant immediately after IUD removal. However, it’s important to remember that your fertility will return to normal within a few weeks or months, so you should not rely on IUD removal as a birth control method. If you do not wish to become pregnant, you should use another form of birth control after IUD removal.
What are my options for birth control after IUD removal?
There are several options for birth control after IUD removal, including:
- Barrier methods, such as condoms or diaphragms
- Hormonal methods, such as the pill, patch, or ring
- Long-acting reversible contraceptive methods, such as the implant or intrauterine device
- Sterilization procedures, such as a tubal ligation or vasectomy
You should discuss your options with your healthcare provider to determine which method is right for you.
Can I have an IUD reinserted after removal?
Yes, you can have an IUD reinserted after removal. If you wish to continue to use an IUD as your preferred method of birth control, you can discuss the option of reinsertion with your healthcare provider. The timing of reinsertion will depend on several factors, including the reason for removal and your individual circumstances.
How long does it take for the cervix to close after IUD removal?
The cervix typically closes within a few hours after IUD removal. However, some women may experience cramping or discomfort for a few days after removal. It is also common to experience some spotting or light bleeding for a few days after removal. You should contact your healthcare provider if you experience heavy bleeding or severe cramping after IUD removal.
Can I remove my IUD on my own?
No, you should never attempt to remove your IUD on your own. IUD removal should always be performed by a healthcare provider who has been trained in the procedure. Attempting to remove your IUD at home can be dangerous and can cause serious injury.
What are the risks of IUD removal?
The risks of IUD removal are generally very low. However, there is a small risk of infection or injury during the removal procedure. In rare cases, the IUD string may break during removal, which can make the device more difficult to remove. Your healthcare provider will evaluate your individual circumstances before removing your IUD to ensure that the procedure is safe and appropriate for you.
How often should I have my IUD removed?
The duration of use for an IUD varies depending on the type of IUD. A copper IUD can be left in place for up to 10 years, while a hormonal IUD can be left in place for up to 3-5 years, depending on the brand. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate duration of use based on your individual circumstances. You should schedule regular appointments with your provider to monitor the effectiveness of your birth control and to determine when your IUD should be removed.
Conclusion
Removing your IUD is a simple procedure that is typically associated with only mild discomfort or side effects. Your fertility will return almost immediately after removal, and there are several options for birth control available to you. If you have any questions or concerns about IUD removal, you should discuss them with your healthcare provider.
- What is an IUD?
- What happens during IUD removal?
- What are the side effects of IUD removal?
- When will my fertility return after IUD removal?
- Can I get pregnant immediately after IUD removal?
- What are my options for birth control after IUD removal?
- Can I have an IUD reinserted after removal?
- How long does it take for the cervix to close after IUD removal?
- What are the risks of IUD removal?
- How often should I have my IUD removed?
References
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2018). Intrauterine devices. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Intrauterine-Devices-IUDs
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). Contraception. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/index.htm
Committee on Gynecologic Practice, Long-Acting Reversible Contraception Work Group. (2017). Practice bulletin no. 186: long-acting reversible contraception: implants and intrauterine devices. Obstetrics and gynecology, 130(5), e251-e269.