What should I expect in the next couple of weeks?
It is common to have some mild cramping and spotting after an IUD insertion. If you have cramps you may want to take:
- Acetaminophen 1000mg (i.e. 2 extra strength Tylenol tablets) every 6 hours
- Ibuprofen 600mg every 6 hours (taking with food helps to prevent stomach upset)
Complications and pelvic infection following IUD insertion are uncommon. However, if you have severe pelvic or abdominal pain that is not improving, fever (greater than 38° C), or malodorous discharge please call our clinic or go to the ER or your local health centre for urgent assessment.
When does it become effective?
For birth control:
- Copper IUDs: protect against pregnancy immediately
- Hormonal IUDs: (e.g., Mirena, Kyleena) are effective after 7 days. Until then you should abstain from sex or continue to use a second form of contraception
- For control of heavy menstrual bleeding or pelvic pain (hormonal IUSs): You will likely notice your period gets lighter and less painful with each cycle but it typically takes up to 6 months to see the full effect of the device.
Other Information
- Irregular spotting can last for up to 6 months after a hormonal IUD is inserted. Other side effects such as breast tenderness, bloating, pelvic cramping, acne, or mild mood changes are less common overall and almost always improve or resolve over the first six months of use.
- Remember IUDs do NOT protect against sexually transmitted infections.
- Condoms should continue to be used to prevent transmission of STIs.
Follow-up
We ask you to check for your string at 4-8 weeks. If you find it and are feeling well a follow up appointment is not required. To check the string of your IUD, insert a finger into your vagina and feel for the cervix, which is at the top of the vagina and feels harder than the rest of your vagina. You should be able to feel the thin, plastic string coming out of the opening of your cervix. If you can not find it or it seems to be longer than 3 cm or you are having other concerning symptoms then book a follow up appointment at the Yukon Sexual Health clinic, call (867) 393-6635.