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What is an IUD and how to manage its side effects

Having a T-shaped stick inserted into the uterus may sound difficult at best, terrifying at worst. However, do you know this is a preferred birth control method? IUD is a birth control device inserted into the uterus, positioned just above the cervix. IUDs can be hormonal or non-hormonal. Despite the high rate of effectiveness, both types have prominent side effects. Thus, here are some tips for managing the side effects of IUDs proactively.

What is an IUD?
An IUD, or Intrauterine Device, is a tiny, plastic, T-shaped contraceptive device inserted into the uterus. Once it’s positioned in place, it will work to intercept the pregnancy by preventing the entry of sperm and thus avoiding egg fertilization (non-hormonal) and thickening the cervical mucus, and modifying the environment of the fallopian tubes and uterus (hormonal). The device may also cease ovulation altogether based on the type of IUD you choose. Typically, IUDs, once inserted, remain effective between 3 and 12 years.

What to expect from an IUD insertion?
An IUD insertion will be performed at the doctor’s office. The healthcare professional might suggest a prescription plan to dilate the cervix or administer the local anesthetic to numb the area beforehand.

During the process, the doctor will use an instrument known as a speculum and place it in the vagina. This device will make space for the insertion of the IUD device into the cervical canal. The process causes discomfort, cramping, and might induce bleeding. Some people might experience lightheadedness or dizziness during the process.

What are the side effects of an IUD?
The side effects of an IUD device typically develop right after the insertion of the IUD device and might last for a few weeks. Let’s explore some of the common side effects of an IUD.

Pain
Pain is one of the usual side effects of an IUD, which will vary depending upon the patient’s hormonal levels and other health factors.
Cramping
Cramping is common during menstrual periods. However, when you have a high level of pain after the IUD insertion, it could be due to the device.
Heavy bleeding
IUDs usually alter the menstrual periods and result in irregular bleeding or blood flow. Women will mostly experience the side effect within a month after the IUD insertion.
Infection
Infection occurs due to the entry of bacteria through the cervix or uterus, which is common in the first few days after insertion.
Irregular periods
If you are on a hormonal IUD, your regular menstrual cycle might cease together, or you may get light menstruation.
Embedment
It occurs when the IUD devices are attached to the uterus wall. It is common when you are breastfeeding or have recently delivered a baby.
Perforation
It refers to the IUD moving towards the walls of the uterus, which also happens during the breastfeeding stage.

How to manage the side effects of an IUD?
Like any other birth control method, the side effects of an IUD can be mild to severe and might resolve after a few weeks. However, if it lasts long for months, it is extremely important to consult with your healthcare professional to prevent any life-threatening situations. Here are a few effective tips that can help with the side effects of an IUD.

Tip 1: Discuss your complete health history with the doctor
The most effective way to manage or prevent the side effects of IUDs is to ensure that the doctor has your complete healthcare history. Consult with your physician and tell them if you have the following:

Already have an inserted IUD
Are pregnant
Have delivered a baby recently
Have or ever had a severe pelvic infection
Have an untreated genital infection
Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
Have a heart attack, stroke, and problems in the heart valve
Have signs of cancer
Have migraines or severe headaches
Have liver-related diseases
Have HIV/ AIDS or any other sexually transmitted diseases
Have problems in the immune system.

Tip 2: Follow the prescription plan
Any cramps are likely to be worse for about a week after the insertion, which may improve over time. However, if the cramps become severe or for a long time, it’s time to consult with a healthcare professional. In general, healthcare professionals suggest women follow a specific prescription plan to manage the side effects of IUD devices, including cramps and pain.

Tip 3: Check the position of the device once in a while
Check the placement of the IUD device at least once per month to manage the physical side effects. Your healthcare provider will teach you how to carry out this process. Each IUD device has threads that are designed to protrude from the cervix into the vagina. If there is a lack of threads or it is too long, the IUD device cannot be nestled in the right place, leading to pain and irritation. In such cases, make sure to consult with the healthcare professional immediately.

Tip 4: Abstain from sexual intercourse when required
At certain times, a part of the IUD device will come out of the uterus (expulsion) or might pierce the uterine lining (perforation). The problem will be indicated by unusual symptoms like sharp abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. To manage these side effects, consult with your healthcare professional and abstain from sexual intercourse or use an alternative method of birth control.

Tip 5: Check out the self-care measures as recommended by your doctor
Eat healthy foods and drink plenty of water to gain essential nutrients and prevent dizziness and cramps during the menstrual cycle after going through the IUD approach.
Apply a warm and moist heat pack to the pelvic region, just below the belly, to ease discomfort and cramping.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitted clothes during the IUD insertion and even for a few days after the procedure.
Incorporate effective pelvic floor exercises into your daily routine to strengthen the muscles for IUD insertion.
Perform yoga or meditation to manage stress and relieve the pelvic pain caused by the IUD insertion.

IUDs are commonly preferred among women as they are reliable and comfortable options for birth control and management. IUD I, prepared by the United States Food and Drug Administration, is a reliable and safe contraceptive. However, women still experience some bothersome side effects at times. Even though the mild side effects from IUD devices are common and can be treated at home, make sure to contact your healthcare professional if you are experiencing any severe side effects.

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