Thinking about getting an IUD?

Thinking about getting an IUD?

IUDs can be a great option for birth control, but they're also a pretty big commitment. If you're thinking about getting one, I hope these tips will help you prepare.

Note: I am not a medical professional, and these tips are not intended to be medical advice. If you have questions about your health or whether or not an IUD is right for you, talk to your doctor.

1. Plan to take the rest of the day off

Having an IUD inserted is an intense procedure. You'll probably be tired after, and you may have very severe cramps for the next day or so. I wouldn't recommend having your IUD inserted at a time when you'll have to return to work, or any other tiring activities, immediately after. You will probably want to rest for quite a while afterward.

Thinking about getting an IUD?

2. If possible, give yourself a few days to recover

You might have fairly severe cramps for a few days after your IUD is inserted, so if it's possible to schedule your insertion at a time when you can take several days to rest afterward, you absolutely should.

3. If you can, bring a loved one with you

An IUD insertion is a pretty painful process. It's quick, but having someone's hand to squeeze- and someone to drive you home afterward- can make the process a lot less stressful.

4. If you go alone, make it as relaxing as you can

Bring whatever will help make the process more comfortable and relaxing for you- water, a book, maybe even music with headphones. Also think about transportation. If you're in a lot of discomfort, it may be tough to drive afterward. Consider taking the bus or a taxi or Uber, or asking a friend or family member to drive you.

Thinking about getting an IUD?

5. Be prepared for some spotting

Bring some pads or liners with you to your appointment (not a tampon- you won't be able to insert anything into your vagina for a certain period of time). The doctor will probably provide you with a pad or liner, but you may feel more comfortable using a familiar brand. And you might want more than one, especially if you're not going straight home after. You may have spotting for quite some time, so stock up.

Thinking about getting an IUD?

6. Stock up on Ibuprofen and heating pads

Your doctor will probably advise you to take a certain amount of Ibuprofen every so often to help with cramps and bleeding. If they don't mention it, ask them how much you can take and how often. Even if you're not feeling much pain while you're still at the office, it's good to know for later. You'll probably want a hot water bottle or heating pad, too.

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Most Helpful Girl

  • This is my 2nd IUD and i love it. Pain is different with everyone I had mine put in and went straight back to work. yes was uncomfortable for a while but nothing a bad a period pain. I had a strange period for 4 months after inserting it but now i have no period. With my first one it had shifted and i had to get it removed because it was only giving me 40% coverage and i was thinking of having another baby. After my miscarriage (not the cause of IUD) and my ex and i broke up i decided to get it again because i was sure i didn't want any more kids right now and i hated periods. I also find my sex life less stressful because now i dont have to plan around a period i can just go for it. IUD isn't for everyone's body some bodies reject it but if your scared about pain dont be suck it up for that minute so you can enjoy 5+ years without warring.

Most Helpful Guy

  • Ibuprofen causes kidney problems so I sajest aspirin in no higher than 340 milagramas that's coated

    • It's true that you may not want to take tons of ibuprofen forever, but it is the recommended painkiller for menstrual cramps and IUD cramping. That's because it's good at targeting pain from smooth muscle cramping (the uterus is smooth muscle). Ibuprofen also doesn't thin your blood the way aspirin does, so it's better for menstrual and IUD cramps since there's bleeding involved. Aspirin isn't very good when you are bleeding, because it can cause you to bleed even more. Ibuprofen can even help with spotting and heavy periods. It's also less of a stomach irritant than aspirin, and when you're dealing with heavy cramping/periods/spotting, and upset stomach is the last thing you need. All in all, there's a reason why doctors recommend it. I appreciate your comment though.

    • Ok giner helps belly vitimin e reduces cramping white willow bark reduces pain

    • That said, every individual should discuss what is best for them with their doctor. Ibuprofen may not necessarily be right for every woman. But I wouldn't suggest aspirin unless a doctor specifically recommends it, because of the issues I mentioned.

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What Girls & Guys Said

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  • It took me months to recover from getting an IUD. Inserting it wasn't the problem, but once it was in there, getting it lodged properly. The menstrual bleeding I had afterwards was horrendous, and I even bled midway through my periods and after sex. I would not recommend this for everyone. Be very very prepared.

    • Agreed, you do need to be prepared for lots of bleeding and cramps.

  • Only a wuss would use contraception.

    • Or, you know, people who want to have sex without reproducing.

    • Yeah and only a wuss would do that. Real people take their chances with nature and don't shame their fertility. If you truly loved your partner, you wouldn't deny him of his fertility power. I'm not surprised you'd have a negative comment, being that you aren't a Christian. All non-Christians believe contraception is right.

    • Oh, it's you again.

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