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

By Dawn Stacey M.Ed, LMHC, About.com

Updated: August 30, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

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Pregnancy Protection

It is okay to have sexual intercourse as soon as you feel comfortable after your IUD is inserted (unless your IUD has been inserted within 48 hours after giving birth).
  • ParaGard IUD provide pregnancy prevention immediately after they it is inserted

  • Mirena IUD is effective immediately only if inserted within 7 days after the start of your period
If you have Mirena inserted at any other time during your menstrual cycle, you should use another method of birth control (like a male condom, female condom, today sponge, or spermicide) during the first week after insertion. Pregnancy protection will begin after 7 days.

Some health-care professionals recommend using a condom as a backup method during the first month after your insertion, basically, to reduce your risk of infection.

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