Intrauterine Device Procedures (IUD) Insertion/Changeover/ Removal



What to expect

An IUD (Intrauterine Device) insertion consultation is an essential step before getting an IUD. During this appointment, your healthcare provider will evaluate your medical history, discuss the IUD options, answer your questions, and make sure that an IUD is the right choice for you. Here's what you can expect during an IUD insertion consultation:

Medical History Review: Your healthcare provider will start by reviewing your medical history, including any previous pregnancies, medical conditions, and medications you are taking. They will also inquire about your menstrual history and any past experiences with birth control methods.

Physical Examination: A physical examination will be conducted to assess the size and position of your uterus. This will help determine if you are a suitable candidate for IUD placement.

Explanation of IUD Options: Your healthcare provider will explain the different types of IUDs available (hormonal and copper) and their respective benefits, side effects, and effectiveness rates. They will take your preferences and medical history into account when recommending a specific type of IUD.

Discussion of Benefits and Risks: Your healthcare provider will discuss the benefits of IUDs as a long-acting and reversible form of birth control. They will also go over the potential risks and side effects associated with IUD insertion, such as pain during the procedure, cramping, and the rare risk of perforation or infection.

Questions and Concerns: You'll have the opportunity to ask any questions or express concerns you may have about the IUD insertion procedure, the device itself, or its effects on your body. Don't hesitate to seek clarification on anything that you're unsure about.

Review of Contraindications: Your healthcare provider will check for any medical conditions or factors that may contraindicate IUD insertion. For example, active pelvic infection, certain gynecological issues, or pregnancy would make IUD placement unsuitable at that time.

Birth Control Education: If you haven't used an IUD or other contraceptive methods before, your healthcare provider will explain how the IUD works, how effective it is in preventing pregnancy, and how to use it correctly.

Consent Process: Once you and your healthcare provider agree that an IUD is a suitable option for you, they will go over the consent process for the procedure. This includes signing consent forms and understanding the potential risks involved.

Scheduling the Insertion: If you decide to proceed with the IUD insertion, your healthcare provider will schedule a separate appointment for the procedure. IUD insertion is typically performed during a pelvic exam and can be done during your menstrual period or at another point in your menstrual cycle.

Aftercare

After getting an IUD (Intrauterine Device) inserted, you may experience some mild discomfort and cramping for a few days. Here are some general aftercare tips to help you recover smoothly and minimize any potential side effects:

Rest and Take It Easy: Give yourself some time to rest after the insertion. Avoid strenuous physical activities for the first 24-48 hours.

Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate any cramping or discomfort. Follow the dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider or on the medication package.

Heating Pad: Applying a heating pad to your lower abdomen can help relieve cramps and soothe discomfort.

Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you experience any sweating or diarrhea.

Avoid Tampons: It's generally recommended to avoid using tampons during the first few days after insertion. Instead, use pads or panty liners to manage any spotting or bleeding.

Monitor Bleeding: Some women may experience light spotting or bleeding for a few days after insertion. If you notice heavy or prolonged bleeding or have concerns about the amount of bleeding, contact your healthcare provider.

Check the Strings: Your healthcare provider will leave the IUD strings slightly protruding from the cervix. Check the length of the strings regularly (with clean hands) to make sure the IUD is in place. Notify your healthcare provider if you cannot feel the strings or if they feel unusually long or short.

Abstain from Sexual Intercourse: To reduce the risk of infection and avoid disturbing the IUD placement, it's generally recommended to abstain from sexual intercourse for a few days after insertion. Your healthcare provider will provide specific guidance on when it's safe to resume sexual activity.

Follow-up Appointment: Attend a follow-up appointment as scheduled by your healthcare provider to ensure the IUD is in the correct position and to address any concerns or questions you may have.

Watch for Signs of Complications: While most women tolerate IUD insertion well, it's essential to be aware of any potential signs of complications, such as severe pain, fever, or abnormal vaginal discharge. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Remember, every person's experience may vary, and some individuals may have more or less discomfort after IUD insertion. If you have specific questions or concerns about your aftercare or the IUD itself or if you experience excessive bleeding or pain not managed with over the counter medication do not hesitate to contact us 07 5616 8070 OR ATTEND YOUR NEAREST MEDICAL EMERGENCY ROOMS

Informed consent

Informed consent for IUD insertion is a critical process that ensures you fully understand the procedure, its benefits, potential risks, and alternatives before giving your consent to undergo the insertion. It typically involves a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider, who will explain the following information:

Description of the Procedure: Your healthcare provider will explain the IUD insertion procedure, how it is performed, and what you can expect during the process.

Purpose and Benefits: The purpose of the IUD is to provide long-term, highly effective contraception. Your healthcare provider will explain the benefits of the chosen IUD, such as its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and its low maintenance requirements.

Risks and Complications: Your healthcare provider will inform you about potential risks and complications associated with IUD insertion, which may include pain, cramping, bleeding, expulsion, perforation, and infection.

Alternative Contraceptive Options: Informed consent also involves discussing alternative contraceptive methods available to you. These may include hormonal birth control pills, patches, injections, or barrier methods like condoms or diaphragms.

IUD Effectiveness and Failure Rates: Your healthcare provider will explain the effectiveness of the IUD in preventing pregnancy and its failure rates.

Duration of Use: The IUD can be either hormonal (usually effective for 3 to 5 years) or copper (effective for up to 10 years). Your healthcare provider will discuss the specific duration of use for the chosen IUD.

Insertion and Removal Process: Your healthcare provider will explain how the IUD is inserted into the uterus and how it can be removed when the desired period of use is over.

Side Effects: Your healthcare provider will discuss common side effects that may occur after IUD insertion, such as cramping, irregular bleeding, and changes in menstrual patterns.

Fertility After Removal: If desired, your healthcare provider will explain that fertility usually returns quickly after IUD removal.

Follow-up Care: Your healthcare provider will discuss the importance of attending follow-up appointments to ensure the IUD is in place and functioning correctly.

Consent for Specific IUD Type: If there are different types of IUDs available (e.g., hormonal vs. copper), your consent will specify the type you have chosen.

Confidentiality and Privacy: The informed consent process also includes a discussion about patient confidentiality and privacy rights.

You should have ample time to ask questions and seek clarification during this discussion. Once you feel well-informed and have no further queries, you may provide your consent for the IUD insertion procedure.

IUD Procedure Consent Essential this is completed




Fees



IUD Procedure and Device Fees


IUD Fees

Consultation Fee Medicare Rebate Out of Pocket
IUD Insertion $345.00 $116.45 $228.55
IUD Changeover $425.00 $116.45 $308.55
IUD Removal $195.00 $41.40 $153.60

IUD Devices

Consultation Fee Medicare Rebate Out of Pocket
Mirena $45.00
Kyleena $45.00
Copper IUD $100.0

FAQ



What happens if I need to cancel my appointment?

We requested that all cancellations are made within 24 hours where practical.

Cancellations in less than 2 hours or failure to attend will result in your deposit being retained as a cancellation fee.

Is the procedure painful?

The experience of pain during an IUD (Intrauterine Device) insertion can vary from person to person. Some women may find it uncomfortable, while others may experience more significant discomfort or pain. However, the procedure is usually quick and well-tolerated by most women.

Factors that can influence the level of pain or discomfort during IUD insertion include:

  1. Individual Pain Tolerance: Each person’s pain tolerance is different. What may be uncomfortable for one person may not be as bothersome for another.
  2. Timing of the Menstrual Cycle: Some doctors recommend inserting the IUD during the menstrual period when the cervix is naturally more open, potentially reducing discomfort.
  3. Previous Pregnancies: Women who have had previous pregnancies may have a more relaxed and dilated cervix, making the insertion process easier.
  4. Anxiety or Nervousness: Feeling anxious or nervous about the procedure may amplify the perception of pain or discomfort.

It’s essential to communicate openly with your doctor about any concerns or worries you may have before the insertion. They can provide information about the process and discuss options for pain management.

How long does the procedure last?

  1. Pre-Procedure Preparation: Before the actual insertion, your doctor will review your medical history, discuss contraceptive options, and explain the procedure to you. They will also conduct a pelvic exam to assess the size and position of your uterus.
  2. Positioning: You will be asked to lie on the examination table with your feet in stirrups, similar to a regular pelvic exam.
  3. Cervical Preparation: Your doctor may clean the cervix and apply a numbing agent or a cervical dilator to help ease the insertion.
  4. Insertion: The IUD, which is a small, T-shaped device, will be inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. Your provider will use a specialized inserter to place the IUD correctly.
  5. Confirmation: After the IUD is inserted, your healthcare provider may gently check its placement by feeling for the strings attached to the IUD. These strings remain just outside the cervix for easy removal later.
  6. Recovery: Once the procedure is complete, you will be allowed to rest for a short time before leaving the clinic.

Is there any downtime after the procedure ?

In general, there is little to no downtime required after an IUD (Intrauterine Device) insertion. Most women can resume their regular activities almost immediately after the procedure. However, it’s essential to be mindful of potential side effects and take care of yourself during the recovery period.

Can I use an IUD if I've never been pregnant?

Yes, both women who have and have not been pregnant can use an IUD. There are specific IUDs designed for different patient groups.

Can I feel the IUD once it's inserted?

In most cases, you should not feel the IUD once it’s properly inserted. However, some women may be aware of its presence during certain activities.

Can I use tampons with an IUD?

You can use tampons with an IUD, but it’s usually recommended to use pads for the first few days after insertion to avoid any possible displacement of the device.

Can an IUD be removed at any time?

Yes, IUDs can be removed at any time by a healthcare provider if you decide you no longer want to use it or wish to switch to a different form of contraception.

Does the IUD offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

No, IUDs do not protect against STIs. It is essential to use barrier methods, such as condoms, to reduce the risk of STI transmission.

Can I fall pregnant immediately after IUD removal?

Yes, fertility usually returns quickly after IUD removal, allowing you to conceive if you wish to become pregnant.

How does an IUD prevent pregnancy?

IUDs work by releasing hormones (in hormonal IUDs) or by creating an environment that is hostile to sperm (in copper IUDs). They prevent fertilization and implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterus.

How long does an IUD last?

The duration of effectiveness depends on the type of IUD. Hormonal IUDs can be effective for 3 to 8 years, while copper IUDs can last up to 10 years. Please ask your doctor for the duration specific to your device and circumstances.

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