Choosing contraception is personal, and the right option needs to suit your health, plans and comfort level. IUD insertion is a common procedure that provides long-acting, highly effective contraception without needing to remember a daily tablet. Knowing what will happen at your appointment can make the decision feel more straightforward.
An intrauterine device, or IUD, is a small T-shaped device placed inside the uterus by a trained clinician. It can be removed when you decide you would like to stop using it or try for pregnancy. Your GP can talk through whether an IUD is appropriate for you, answer questions without judgement and organise the next steps.
Understanding your IUD options
There are two main types of IUD available in Australia. A hormonal IUD releases a small amount of progestogen into the uterus. It is commonly chosen for contraception and may also reduce heavy or painful periods. Some people find that their periods become very light or stop altogether while using it.
A copper IUD does not contain hormones. It prevents pregnancy through the effect of copper within the uterus and can be suitable for people who prefer a non-hormonal option. Periods may be heavier, longer or more painful, particularly in the first few months. The best choice depends on your medical history, menstrual pattern, preferences and how long you would like contraception to last.
An IUD does not protect against sexually transmissible infections. Condoms remain useful if there is any possibility of exposure to an STI, particularly with new or multiple partners.
Before your IUD insertion appointment
The process usually begins with a consultation, rather than rushing straight to insertion. Your clinician will ask about your health, medicines, allergies, periods, previous pregnancies and contraception history. They may discuss your risk of pregnancy and STIs, and whether you are due for cervical screening.
This is a good time to raise practical concerns, including pain, anxiety, prior difficult examinations or a history of trauma. There is no need to minimise these concerns. Your clinician can explain each part of the procedure, discuss available pain relief and work with you on a plan that feels manageable. In some cases, insertion may need to be arranged with additional support or in a different setting.
You may be asked to complete a pregnancy test before the procedure. Depending on your circumstances, screening for STIs may be recommended. An IUD should not be inserted if there is an untreated pelvic infection or if pregnancy cannot be reasonably excluded.
Your clinician will let you know whether to take simple pain relief beforehand and whether there are any specific preparation instructions. It can help to eat and drink normally before the appointment unless you have been given different advice. If you expect to feel anxious or crampy afterwards, arranging a lift home or allowing yourself a quieter afternoon may be sensible.
What happens during IUD insertion?
The procedure itself often takes only a few minutes, although the appointment allows time for consent, questions and recovery. You will be positioned for a pelvic examination, similar to having a cervical screening test. Your clinician uses a speculum to gently view the cervix, then cleans the area.
The length and position of the uterus are measured with a slim instrument before the IUD is inserted through the cervix and placed in the uterus. Fine threads are left extending slightly through the cervix. These threads are not usually noticeable during everyday life, but they allow a clinician to remove the IUD later.
People’s experiences vary. Some describe brief, strong period-like cramps during the measurement and insertion, while others feel only pressure or mild discomfort. Cramping can be more intense for some patients, and it is reasonable to ask in advance about pain management options. Let the clinician know at any point if you need them to pause, explain what they are doing or stop.
Feeling light-headed, sweaty or nauseated immediately afterwards can happen, particularly if the cervix has been sensitive during the procedure. Resting on the examination bed for a few minutes is often all that is needed. Your clinician will check that you feel well enough before you leave.
Can an IUD be inserted during your period?
An IUD can often be inserted at different points in the menstrual cycle, provided pregnancy can be excluded. Some people prefer an appointment during their period because the cervix may be slightly more open, but it is not always necessary. Timing may also affect when the IUD begins protecting against pregnancy, so ask your clinician whether you need to use condoms or avoid sex for a short period after insertion.
Recovery after IUD insertion
Mild cramping and light bleeding or spotting are common in the first few days. For some people, intermittent cramps and irregular bleeding continue for several weeks as the body adjusts. Simple pain relief, a heat pack and taking things gently can help.
With a hormonal IUD, irregular spotting is particularly common in the first three to six months before periods often become lighter. With a copper IUD, periods may remain heavier or more uncomfortable than they were before. These changes can be inconvenient, but they are not always a sign that something is wrong.
You can usually return to work, study and normal activities when you feel comfortable. There is no universal rule about sex, exercise, swimming or tampon use after insertion, but your clinician may give advice based on your individual circumstances. Follow the instructions provided at your appointment.
Some clinicians recommend checking the IUD threads after your next period or at intervals they advise. If you cannot feel them, they feel much longer or shorter than before, or you can feel the hard part of the device, use another form of contraception and arrange a review. Threads can sometimes curl up around the cervix, so not feeling them does not always mean the IUD has moved.
When to seek medical advice
Most cramps and spotting settle with time, but contact a GP promptly if pain is severe, worsening or not helped by usual pain relief. You should also seek advice if you develop fever, chills, unusual or unpleasant-smelling discharge, very heavy bleeding, pain during sex, or think you may be pregnant.
An IUD can occasionally move or come out, most often in the first few months. This is uncommon, but it is why changes in the threads or unexpected symptoms should be checked. If you have had unprotected sex and are concerned the IUD may not be in place, seek medical advice as soon as possible.
IUD removal and future fertility
IUD removal is generally quicker than insertion. A clinician gently pulls the threads, and the device folds as it comes out. Some brief cramping may occur. Do not try to remove an IUD yourself.
Fertility generally returns quickly after removal, including after a hormonal IUD. If pregnancy is not your goal, have another contraceptive method organised before removal. If you are planning a pregnancy, your GP can also discuss pre-pregnancy health, vaccinations, medicines and folic acid.
A decision that should feel supported
An IUD can be an excellent option for many people, but it is not the right choice for everyone. A conversation with a clinician should cover the benefits, possible side effects, alternatives and any factors specific to your health. At Parkmore Medical Centre, women’s health care is approached with time, respect and clear information, so you can make a decision that feels right for you.
If you are considering an IUD, booking a consultation is a practical first step. You do not need to have every answer before you attend – bringing your questions is enough.
