Considering an IUD? Here’s What to Expect During and After Insertion

If you’re thinking about getting an intrauterine device (IUD), you’re in good company. About 17% of women rely on IUDs for long-lasting, low-maintenance, highly effective birth control. This makes them the most popular long-acting, reversible option.

IUDs are the third most common type of birth control, second only to condoms and female sterilization. If you're ready to experience the benefits of IUDs, don’t hesitate to reach out.

OBGYN Westside, PLLC, offers several types of birth control, including different types of IUDs, on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City. Read on as our team explains everything you should expect before, during, and after insertion.

What to expect before IUD insertion

We begin your visit with a conversation about your medical history, period patterns, and contraceptive goals. Your OBGYN Westside provider may also perform a pelvic exam or pregnancy test.

Our team can also share the different types of IUDs we offer, including hormonal IUDs and non-hormonal IUDs.

A note from the OBGYN Westside team: your comfort matters

We’re excited to offer Pro-Nox® (nitrous oxide/laughing gas), a unique feature among gynecology practices. This safe, inhaled pain and anxiety relief option can make procedures like IUD insertions, biopsies, and even routine gynecology exams more comfortable.

If you’re feeling nervous or have a history of pain with pelvic procedures, ask us about using Pro-Nox during your visit.

What to expect during IUD insertion

The actual insertion typically takes less than five minutes. Here’s how it works:

You lie back on the exam table, similar to a Pap smear
A speculum is gently inserted to open your vagina
Your provider measures your uterus and places the IUD using a slim applicator tube

You may feel brief pressure or cramping as the IUD is positioned. Deep breathing can help, and if you opt for Pro-Nox, it can significantly ease discomfort and anxiety during the process.

What to expect immediately after IUD insertion

Mild cramping, spotting, or light bleeding is common for a few hours or up to a couple of days. Many women return to work or school; others prefer to rest. A heating pad and over-the-counter pain reliever can help ease any lingering cramps.

Our team can also show you how to check the IUD strings; daily checks aren’t necessary, just occasionally for reassurance.

What to expect in the weeks following IUD insertion

As your body adapts to your new IUD, you may notice:

Lighter periods over time, occasional spotting at first (if you have a hormonal IUD)
Heavier bleeding or stronger cramps initially (if you have a copper IUD)
Gradual reduction in cramping as your uterus adjusts

Most women find they no longer notice the IUD after this adjustment period.

IUDs are truly a set-it-and-forget-it type of birth control. However, they don’t protect you from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). So, if you’re engaged with multiple partners or are engaged in at-risk activities, be sure to use a male condom to protect yourself.

Do you need follow-up care after IUD insertion?

A follow-up visit a few weeks after insertion gives our team a chance to check that everything is positioned correctly. After that, you can count on years of effortless protection.

Hormonal IUDs can protect you from unwanted pregnancy for 3-8 years, while copper IUDs protect you for up to 10 years. And removal is quick and simple, whenever you’re ready.

Thinking about an IUD?

At OBGYN Westside, your comfort and confidence matter. Whether you want to schedule your insertion, explore other birth control options, or learn more about Pro-Nox for pain and anxiety relief, our team is here to guide you with compassion and expertise.