How is an IUD
inserted?
IUD insertion is usually little or no pain. Women who have never had a pregnancy, as the risk of pain is higher, can take an antispasmodic medication 2 hours before insertion. The insertion itself is very quick. A small sanitary napkin can be provided, as there may be some minor bleeding a few hours after application. For possible stomach aches and pains, taking paracetamol will quickly relieve them.
It is useful to have a check-up every year, during the gynecological surveillance consultation, to make sure that the IUD is properly positioned. After 5 years, it is possible to remove the IUD and insert a new one during the same consultation.
The advantage of the copper IUD is that it is very effective, has a long duration of action and does not present any risk of cancer or cardiovascular disease.
Precautions :
- Unexplained uterovaginal bleeding
- Suspected or proven pregnancy
- A malformation of the uterus incompatible with IUD insertion
- History or existence of uterine or trophoblastic pathology
- Infectious risk situations (STDs, high genital infection…)
- An allergy to copper or to any of the other components of the IUD
- Postpartum (between 48 hours and 4 weeks)
Effectiveness :
Used as emergency contraception, the copper IUD is a very effective alternative to the morning-after pill.
Benefits:
- Simplicity: you don’t have to think about your pill every day
- Comfort: effective as soon as it is inserted, immediate return to previous fertility as soon as it is taken off
- Absence of hormones: health benefit
- The duration of use: peace of mind for 5 years
Disadvantages:
- Copper IUDs can lengthen and increase menstrual bleeding. If the period is short and sparse, the difference will be imperceptible
- Sometimes pain occurs at the time of menstruation or at the time of ovulation
The rule:
If you notice anything abnormal, ask your doctor for advice.