What to Expect During IUD Removal

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a commonly used form of birth control. It’s a T-shaped device that’s placed inside your uterus in order to prevent pregnancy. An IUD is one of the most effective forms of reversible birth control and can last anywhere from 3-12 years, depending on the type you get.

When your IUD expires, you need to have it removed; although you can also have it taken out at any time if you’re ready to get pregnant. Some people also have them taken out if they’re having adverse side effects or if they’re just ready to try a different form of birth control.

IUD removal is a quick process that you should always have professionally done. Never try to take it out yourself.

Our team led by Karen Mass, MD, FACOG, at Women’s Specialty Care, located in Lake Forest and Grayslake, Illinois, offers comprehensive birth control services, including IUD placement and removal. Here’s what to expect during an IUD removal.

The IUD removal process

There’s not much you need to do to prepare for getting your IUD removed. We do suggest that you avoid sex for seven days before your appointment to mitigate your risk of getting pregnant if you’re not replacing your old IUD with a new one.

No matter what kind of IUD you have, the process is going to be the same. You lie back on a table, and we place a speculum in your vagina. The strings of the IUD hang through your cervix into your vagina. We simply pull the strings, the arms of the IUD fold up, and the device slips out.

You might experience some mild cramping during and right after the procedure, and maybe some spotting as well.

In some cases, the IUD can attach itself to your uterine wall. If this does happen, we perform a hysteroscopy in order to remove it safely.

What to do after IUD removal

You have a few different options for next steps after your IUD is removed. If you had your IUD removed because it expired and you’d like to continue with this method of contraception, we can place a new one for you right after we remove the old one. 

If you’re not happy with your IUD, but you don’t want to get pregnant at this time, we can discuss other birth control options with you and help you find one that best suits your health needs and lifestyle at your current stage of life.

If you want to get pregnant, your periods and fertility will return to what they were prior to having your IUD. 

If you need your IUD removed for any reason, don’t hesitate to come and see our team for safe and effective IUD removal. To book an appointment with us, simply call your nearest location, or use our online scheduler today.