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What To Expect During an IUD Insertion (ParaGard IUD or Mirena IUD)

By , About.com Guide

Updated December 22, 2009

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Insertion of the IUD

ParaGard IUD and Mirena IUD Insertion

Artistic Rendition Reprinted with permission from Dawn Stacey
After the sound is withdrawn, the doctor will prepare the IUD for insertion by removing it from its sterile packaging. Then, the arms of the IUD are bent back, and a tube (or slider) containing the IUD is inserted.

The IUD is pushed into place, to the depth indicated by the sound, by a plunger in the tube. Once out of the tube and when the IUD is in the proper position in the uterus, the arms open into the "T" shape.

A woman may experience cramping and pinching sensations while all of this is taking place. Some women may feel a bit dizzy. It may be helpful to take deep breaths. Although there may be some discomfort, the whole procedure only takes a few minutes.

The insertion of an IUD is usually uncomplicated. While many women may experience some discomfort, less than 5 percent of women will experience moderate to severe pain. Reactions, such as perspiring, vomiting, and fainting occur in 1 percent of women or less. These problems are generally brief and rarely require immediate IUD removal. Additionally, these reactions do not affect later IUD performance.

Women who have never given birth, have had few births, or have had a long interval since last giving birth are most likely to experience these problem.

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