On rare occasions, you may need to remove your IUD because of reactions to the device, such as abnormal bleeding, excessive pain, or heavy or exceedingly long menstruation. The expiration date on hormonal IUDs is 5 years. Copper IUDs can be left in for 10 years. [3] X Research source
You may also be able to go ahead and schedule your procedure as well.
It is best to be completely honest with your doctor so she can help you make the best choice for you. [4] X Research source
You could also abstain from sex for the week or weeks leading up to your IUD removal if you don’t have access to an alternative form of birth control.
She may also use a hysteroscope, which is thin tube that has a light and camera lens on the end of it. This pre-examination also checks for excessive tenderness or physiological changes that might prevent your IUD from being removed. In rare cases, it may be necessary to have an ultrasound or x-ray if your doctor cannot easily find the strings of your IUD. These are used to make sure that the IUD has not shifted into your abdomen or your pelvis. [6] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source
The arms of the IUD fold outward, so they will not hurt too much coming out. [9] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source
If this doesn’t work either, she may use a IUD hook, which is a thin, metal instrument that is hooked on one end. This method may take several passes to work, depending on how your IUD has shifted. Your doctor will insert the hook and pull it out. If she didn’t grab onto the IUD, she will then continue to insert the hook again until it has tried to grab the IUD on all sides. Outpatient surgery to remove the device is a last resort that may become necessary if the IUD cannot be removed by any other means. [10] X Research source Sometimes a small camera (hysteroscope) is used to find an IUD if the strings cannot be found. This is usually done in the office.
In some rare instances, you may have more severe reactions, which may be due to an underlying health issue. Call your doctor immediately if you have severe cramps, pain or tenderness in your abdomen, a fever, chills, or unexplained vaginal bleeding or discharge. [11] X Research source
There will be no interruption of the contraceptive abilities of the IUD if you have immediate reinsertion. [12] X Research source
