Intrauterine Device (IUD) Removal

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device. It is placed in your uterus by your doctor or health care provider to prevent pregnancy, reduce heavy period (menstrual) bleeding, or help reduce painful menstrual cramps or pelvic pain. 

Your IUD should be removed after you have had it in place anywhere from 3 to 10 years.  The timing depends on the type of IUD you have.

Before the Removal

• If your IUD was placed to prevent pregnancy and you are planning to continue using an IUD, the old IUD will be removed and the new IUD will be inserted at the same visit.
• You should not have unprotected sex (intercourse) for 5 days before your IUD removal.  This will reduce the chances of you getting pregnant when the IUD is removed.
• Before you come to the office to have your IUD removed, consider taking an over-the-counter pain medicine like naproxen (Aleve^®) or ibuprofen (Motrin^®, Advil^®). 

Removing the IUD

• An IUD can be removed at any time during your menstrual cycle.  The removal can usually be done during an office visit.
• You will lie on your back with your feet on footrests like during the placement.  A sheet will be draped over your body.
• When it's time to remove the IUD, your doctor or health care provider will use a device called a speculum  to see the IUD strings.  Then, they will gently and slowly pull on them to fold up the T-shape 'arms' on the IUD. This will let the IUD slide through the cervix. 
• Removing the IUD is usually faster and less painful than the placement. 
• After the IUD is taken out, you will get education on care at home.
• After the IUD is removed (and you don't have a new one placed), you may become pregnant if you have unprotected sex. Talk to your doctor or health care provider about another birth control method if you don't want to get pregnant.

Symptoms at Home

Symptoms can include:

• Mild cramping that can be managed with a heating pad or over-the-counter pain medicine.
• A small amount of vaginal bleeding that lasts many hours or days after the removal. Use a sanitary pad or a tampon if you need it. 
• Abnormal periods or no periods for up to 3 months after the removal.

When to Call the Doctor

• Severe cramping that can't be treated with over-the-counter pain medicine
• Heavier than usual bleeding or bleeding that does not stop
• Bad-smelling discharge
• Fever higher than 101° Fahrenheit (38.3° Celsius)
• Painful sex

Activity and diet

You may do your daily activities and eat normal food after the IUD is removed.

Follow-up

Continue your regular health care appointments. Call your doctor or health care provider to schedule any follow-ups as needed. 

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