Is IUD Fitting or Removing Painful? What Patients Need to Know?

Also known as intrauterine devices (IUDs), coils are one of the most effective and reliable forms of long-term, reversible contraception. However, many women still hesitate to opt for this method because of possible concerns about pain and discomfort. Explore the article until the end to clarify your doubt regarding if coil fitting is really painful. This will help you make a well-informed decision for your reproductive journey.

Most individuals think that the coil fitting process is painful and this is true to some extent. During insertion of the IUD or coil, a mild discomfort is faced by all. However, the pain is bearable enough and typically resolves within a short time. For an average person, this may be considered normal, but, not every woman has same level of endurance.

The coil insertion procedure takes less than 30 seconds. Doctors generally use a pain relief in addition to administering general anaesthetic before the process. But, if the individual still feels pain, then she may require medical intervention. Read on this blog to know the essentials of coil fitting procedure and aftercare methods.

What is a Coil or IUD?

Prior to discussing the process of getting an IUD, let's clarify what an IUD actually is. IUDs are tiny, T-shaped instruments designed to be placed inside the uterus to stop unwanted pregnancies. There are two primary kinds of coils available, namely:

1. Copper IUD (e.g., ParaGard): This is a non-hormonal device that functions by releasing copper ions into the uterus. These coils can last for as long as 10 years.
   
   
2. Hormonal IUD (such as Mirena, Kyleena, Jaydess, etc.): These release a slight quantity of progestin, which is responsible for thickening the cervical mucus. Moreover, this hormone reduces the thickness of the uterine lining to terminate pregnancies. Hormonal coils typically last for about 5 years, on average (maximum period of 8 years).

Why do some women experience pain during the insertion process?

The perception of pain is subjective and varies from one person to another. Some individuals might report mild to moderate discomfort, whereas others could feel a more intense level of pain. Various factors may be influencing this, including:

1. Previous Vaginal Deliveries

Women who have previously delivered vaginally typically experience less pain during coil insertion. This is due to the fact that their cervix has already experienced dilation.

2. Mental Stress and Strain

Feeling anxious can lead to the vaginal muscles tightening, which makes the insertion process less comfortable. Unique relaxation methods, like deep breathing combined with honest dialogue with the relevant professional, can greatly assist.

3. Particular Stage of Your Menstrual Cycle

Inserting the coil tends to be more smooth and less challenging during your menstrual cycle or immediately following the bleeding period. This is due to the cervix being more open and naturally lubricated at that point.

What Occurs During the IUD Fitting Process?

Understanding the process of IUD or coil insertion can reduce anxiety and better prepare you, both physically and mentally.

1. Preparation
   
   
   • In this, the healthcare provider will go through your medical history and briefly explain the process.
   • A pelvic exam is often done to determine the uterus’s position.
     
     
2. Speculum Insertion
   
   
   • The process is similar to a Pap smear. A special instrument, known as a speculum is inserted to visualise the cervix internally.
     
     
3. Measuring the Uterus

• A uterine sound is performed to measure the depth of the uterus. This may give slight cramps.

4. IUD Insertion
   
   
   • The coil is inserted via a thin tube and then slowly released into the uterus. This is that step which gives the most discomfort.

The entire coil fitting process is completed within 5 to 10 minutes.

How Does The Pain Feel Like?

Most patients describe the pain as:

• A sharp cramp or pinching sensation, similar to severe period cramps.
• Brief but intense pain, often followed by a dull ache or cramping (typically lasting for a few hours).

Some women may even feel lightheaded or nausea right during the insertion process. This happens due to a temporary response called vasovagal reaction, in which the body reacts to pain or stress.

What to Expect after IUD insertion?

It is normal to experience mild cramping and spotting for the first few days, post-completion of the procedure. Such symptoms generally resolve within a short time, but, if there is severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, consider your case as urgent and contact the concerned medical provider. 

Methods to Reduce the Discomfort

1. Pain Relief Medication

• Medicines such as ibuprofen and paracetamol are the best in reducing pain during coil insertion. This is done about an hour before the appointment.

2. Local Anaesthetic
   
   
   • Some clinics offer a local anaesthetic to numb the muscles of the cervix. Just clarify from your provider if this option would suit you the best.
     
     
3. Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
   
   
   • Deep, slow breathing can help relax your muscles and gradually reduce discomfort.
     
     
4. Support
   
   
   • Consider bringing a close friend or family member to the gynaecology clinic for emotional support.

What Happens While Removing the IUD?

IUD removal is comparatively quick and hardly causes much pain than insertion. However, it is possible for some people to get cramps when the contraceptive device is being pulled out from the body. It is better to take a painkiller before the removal appointment – this keeps you on the safe side.

Long-Term Comfort and Benefits

Once the initial discomfort subsides, most people don’t feel the IUD at all. Over time, many report the following benefits:

• Mental peace with a highly effective, low-maintenance contraceptive.
• Lighter periods or even no periods with hormonal IUDs.
• Long-term savings (both financially and in terms of mental load).

Conclusion

While the thought of coil fitting might sound daunting, many find that the brief discomfort is outweighed by years of effective contraception. Understanding the process, preparing ahead of time, and communicating with your provider can make the experience much more manageable.

If you’re considering an IUD but are worried about the pain, speak openly with your private doctor. Several reliable private gynaecologists in London are available – you can conveniently approach any one and make your experience comfortable.