Breathe in, breathe out: everything you need to know about getting an IUD

Let me not beat around the bush: a few hours ago I was lying with my legs in a position you-don't-want on a plastic mat at the doctor's office. A considerable out-of-my-comfort-zone situation, but it had to happen.

I stopped taking the pill in August and wanted an IUD. Actually, for three quarters of a year, but I found it dead-dead-scary and so I kept putting it off. This morning I was badass enough to just do it. Hatsakee, done with that nonsense. A quarter of an hour later I walked out of the practice smiling (and yes, okay, with a slight twinge in my lower abdomen, that’s true). Hello freedom. Five years of hardly (or not at all) getting my period, I’m already celebrating it. Alright, if you’re also hesitating to get an IUD: this is what you need to know.

What types of IUDs can you choose from?

From the copper IUD and the hormonal IUD. My doctor told me that a copper IUD is actually hardly ever placed anymore. It can be done if you really can’t or don’t want hormones, but the hormonal IUD is more common. Plus: with a copper IUD, the chance of still having heavy periods is greater.

How long does it work?

With a copper IUD, you are protected against pregnancy for five to ten years. A hormonal IUD works for five years.

Are there really that many hormones in it?

Nope. The amount of hormones is ten to thirty times less than with other hormonal contraceptive methods. A hormonal IUD contains progestin. This hormone is gradually released into your uterine lining. You don’t have to notice anything.

How much does it cost?

I think it depends on which one you take, but I spent around one hundred thirty euros. But then you’re set for five years, so actually, you’re cheaper off than with the pill.

From when is it safe to have sex?

Immediately. Whether you feel like it is a second question (believe me: not), but in principle, from the moment the IUD is placed, you are ready to rumble without the risk of pregnancy.

And, the burning question: how does it feel? Does it hurt? What do you feel then?

Yes, okay, it’s a bit of an unpleasant feeling, yes. I didn’t even find the duckbill that disturbing, but the placement of the IUD itself is a bit of a please-don’t-do-that sting for about a minute. Yes, I had sweaty hands and said ‘ouch’ for a moment, but a minute later the cramp faded away. I found it quite manageable overall, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt. If you prepare for that and know it will be gone in a few seconds, then that doesn’t seem like much.

And can you do everything again afterwards?

I worked from home this morning and was back in the office around lunchtime. Lying in bed all day seemed silly to me because I feel fine. But some people have more trouble than others. It’s usually advised to take it easy for a day.

Oh, and good to know…

It’s advised to have the IUD placed when you’re on your period, as your uterine lining is most open then, making placement easiest and you experience the least discomfort. I would do it on the last day, when you’re almost done.

Any extra tips?

Take one Aleve painkiller or an ibuprofen an hour before you go, and if you’re away and start to feel discomfort, take another one. Also: wear a long skirt, I did too, and that way you only have to take off your thong, which makes you feel a bit less naked.

Last attempt to encourage you: I don’t think those fifteen minutes of discomfort outweigh five years of pleasure. You. Can. Do. This.