Relationships May 5, 2017
Every woman has heard at least one horror story about IUD pain.
But after hating the pill and the implant, it seems like the IUD is your last option. We already know that finding the perfect birth control can be a nightmare. It’s about trial and error and just hoping and praying that the birth control they’ve chosen this time doesn’t leave them bloated, hormonal and prone to acne. And for those trying IUDs for the first time, they’re probably also hoping they don’t end up squirming in pain.
But wait – how badly does it hurt, exactly?
Well, if you’re trying to prepare yourself for the procedure – both the insertion and aftermath – look no further. ENTITY’s collected some valuable first-person info from Reddit threads. Take a deep breath and keep reading.
“Almost passed out. I didn’t take anything before hand and was given no Cervix softeners. Almost fell off the table and had to lay down for 15 minutes due to nausea and the room spinning. I finally stopped crying and was able to drive myself home without puking.
“Edit: This was just my experience. I’ve heard it’s not that bad for most. But MINE, holy f-ck. Coming from someone who had weekly spinal taps.”
“The actual insertion is pretty painful, but it’s short, over in half a minute. It then felt like bad cramps for the day, but I woke up the best morning feeling absolutely fine. And I know this is frustrating to hear, but the more you relax the easier it will be!”
“I’m surprised to read this was painful for so many people because it was absolutely pain-free for me. My doctor put some sort of numbing gel inside which really helped. I literally felt zero pain.”
Yes, IUD pain varies and that’s the best anyone can tell you.
But plenty of users would probably argue that it’s well worth the discomfort. You know, unless you’re crying on the bedroom floor all day or getting rushed to the ER.
For the most part, though, IUDs are effective and user-friendly. If you don’t want to chart your cycle, use condoms or flat out refrain from sex, then it might be the answer to your problems.
Remember: Pain is subjective. It’s hard to truly know how you will respond ahead of time, so if you’re worried just talk to your physician.
But if you still want to do more research, Iodine – the “Yelp” of birth control – offers more information for inquisitive women.
