PocketGuide: Client Instructions - Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

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PocketGuide for Family Planning Service Providers

Client Instructions

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

Instructions | General Information | Return Visit

Instructions

Return for checkup after the first postinsertion menses, 4 to 6 weeks after insertion.
During the first month after insertion, check the strings several times, particularly after your menstrual period.
After the first month, you only need to check the strings after menses if you have:

cramping in the lower part of the abdomen,
spotting between periods or after intercourse, or
pain after intercourse (or if your partner experiences discomfort during sex).

Removal of the Copper T 380A is necessary after 10 years but may be done sooner if you wish.
Return to the clinic if you:

cannot feel the strings,
feel the hard part of the IUD,
expel the IUD, or
miss a period.

General Information

The IUD is effective immediately.
The IUD can come out of the uterus spontaneously, especially during the first few months.
There may be some bleeding or spotting the first few days after insertion.
Menstrual bleeding usually will be longer and heavier (copper-releasing IUDs) or shorter and lighter (progestin-releasing IUDs).
The IUD may be removed any time you wish.
IUDs do not provide protection against STDs, including the AIDS virus. If either you or your partner is at risk, you should use condoms as well as an IUD.

Return Visit

There is no medical reason for the client to return after the postinsertion checkup (4–6 weeks after insertion) unless there is a problem or she wants to have the IUD removed. All clients, however, should be encouraged to return for routine reproductive health care, including provision of condoms as necessary.

Warning Signs for IUD Users

Delayed menstrual period with pregnancy symptoms (nausea, breast tenderness, etc.)
Persistent or crampy lower abdominal pain, especially if accompanied by not feeling well, fever or chills (these symptoms suggest possible pelvic infection)
Strings missing or the plastic tip of the IUD can be felt when checking for the strings
Either you or your partner begins having sexual relations with more than one partner; IUDs do not protect women from STDs (e.g., HBV, HIV/AIDS)

Contact a health care provider or clinic if you develop any of the above problems.

Go to PocketGuide for Family Planning Service Providers

Last Updated: 09 Jul 2003

URL: http://www.reproline.jhu.edu/
Reproductive Health Online (ReproLine): a family planning and reproductive health training website