IUDs are one of the most effective forms of birth control available. They prevent pregnancy as soon as they’re inserted, and they last for years.
IUD perforation is rare, affecting 1 in 1000 placements. But it does happen, and it can be painful.
Your partner can feel your IUD strings (which are about two inches long, like fishing line) with a finger, up by the cervix. But cervical mucus helps minimize the feeling of them.
24 Hours After IUD Insertion
IUDs are a type of birth control that prevent pregnancy by either damaging or killing sperm or blocking them from entering a woman’s uterus. There are several types of IUDs available, including hormone-free options like Paragard and Mirena. Most doctors recommend abstaining from sex for 24 hours after having an IUD placed. This allows the device to heal and ensures that it is positioned correctly in your uterus.
Some women experience pain or discomfort after having an IUD inserted. This usually subsides within a day or two. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage this discomfort.
The procedure to insert an IUD is very quick, usually taking no more than five minutes. It begins with your doctor using a speculum to find your cervix. They then insert a small tube with the IUD in it through your cervix. The arms of the IUD are bent back and then they open once they reach your uterus. The doctor may trim the string that hangs down from the bottom of the IUD.
If you have an IUD, you can also check to make sure it is in place by putting your finger inside your vagina until you feel the plastic of the cervix. It is important to wash your hands before doing this. You can also use a mirror to check the positioning of the IUD. If you have any problems, you should see your gynecologist for an exam.
7-10 Days After IUD Insertion
An intrauterine device (IUD) is one of the most effective forms of birth control. It prevents pregnancy by blocking the sperm from entering the uterus, and it’s 99 percent effective. Unlike other methods of birth control, the effectiveness of an IUD lasts up to 10 years. However, if you get sex while your IUD isn’t yet effective, you could become pregnant. That’s why it’s important to use a backup method of birth control for the first few days after you have an IUD inserted.
A doctor or nurse inserts an IUD by putting the device through your vagina, past the cervix, and into your uterus. This only takes a few minutes. You might experience cramping, but this usually passes within a day or two. You can take over-the-counter painkillers to help ease the discomfort.
The IUD has “arms” that hold it in place and a string attached to the bottom. The provider may trim the strings to keep them from dragging down into your uterus and vagina. You can have an IUD inserted at any time during your menstrual cycle, although doctors prefer to do it while you’re having your period.
An IUD is less likely to fall out if you have it inserted during your period, since the cervix is most open. Still, it’s possible for your IUD to shift up or down during this time, and you should use a backup method of birth control if you have sex while it’s not fully in place.
1 Week After IUD Insertion
One week after IUD insertion, you should be able to have unprotected sex with no problems. However, it’s still best to use a condom during sexual activity. This will help protect you against STIs and infections. Also, it’s a good idea to continue to go to your gynecologist every 6 months to check the position of your IUD.
It’s normal to have light bleeding or spotting during the first day or two after having an IUD. It’s usually because the cervix is readjusting to the new device. Some women also experience heavier or irregular periods. These issues are not harmful and can be addressed by your doctor.
A copper IUD is a good option for people who want long-term birth control but don’t like the side effects of oral contraceptives. It works by releasing tiny bits of copper, which damages sperm so they can’t fertilize an egg. The only drawback is that it can bring on longer, more painful periods.
During an IUD placement, your healthcare provider will insert a metal instrument called a speculum into your vagina to access your cervix. A small tube with the IUD in it is then inserted into your uterus, and its arms are bent back to hold it in place. After it’s in the uterus, your provider will trim the strings. You should periodically check that you can feel the IUD strings with your fingers, especially during your period.
2 Weeks After IUD Insertion
During the IUD insertion process, the doctor must pass instruments through your vagina, cervix and into your uterus. This can disrupt the protective mucous lining and cause an infection. If you have a genital infection, it will prevent the IUD from working as designed and could lead to serious pelvic pain. That’s why you must abstain from sex while your IUD is inserted and for 24 hours afterward.
After the 24 hour wait, you can start using your IUD again. However, it’s still a good idea to use backup contraception for the first three months after your IUD is in place. You can also check the IUD strings by feeling for them between your periods. This will ensure that your IUD is sitting pretty inside your uterus and is protecting you from pregnancy.
If you do experience any pain, cramping or other unusual symptoms, contact your gynecologist. It’s possible that your IUD wasn’t inserted correctly or that it has shifted.
It’s rare for an IUD to fall out, but it can happen. It’s usually because the doctor inserted it incorrectly or your body rejected it. Most of the time, IUDs will simply shift up or down within your uterus and won’t be removed unless there’s a problem like a heavy period or severe cramping. Your gynecologist will be able to help you decide on the best type of IUD for your unique situation.