These are the two plastic threads that hang from the unit.
You cannot see IUD strings, so you must insert a finger and feel for them.
Most of the time,missing stringsaren’t a sign of anything concerning.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
This article explains how to check your IUD strings to ensure your IUD is correctly in place.
Thereafter, your provider will check for your IUD strings at scheduled follow-ups.
As for checking your IUD strings yourself, you should do so once a month, between periods.
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In the meantime, use backup birth control.
Your healthcare provider may have you take a pregnancy test, if you haven’t already.
If your strings can’t be located during a pelvic exam, an imaging test may be ordered.
A pelvic ultrasound is often used to locate the IUD (if it hasn’t been expelled).
When IUD Strings Are Too Long
There is no danger in having long IUD strings.
Unless they dangle into your vagina, you won’t feel them when going about your day.
A partner might feel them if they insert a penis or finger into your vagina, however.
Some say their partner’s IUD strings “poke” them.
Feeling the strings may be bothersome, but it should not cause any pain and is not otherwise harmful.
IUD strings are trimmed by a healthcare practitioner after the gadget is placed.
Here’s a look at how long they are before that is done.
confirm to have your IUD checked by your healthcare provider at your regular gynecological exam.
Summary
IUDs are a safe, reliable form of birth control.
However, there are risks and downsides to all methods of birth control.
One of the concerns with an IUD is that they occasionally can move out of place.
Routinely checking your IUD strings can help you know if your IUD has moved.
Never take a stab at remove or re-insert your IUD yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes.
They may be left long enough to grab them.
But if they are, you should still only feel for them to ensure they are there.
Never grab or tug your IUD strings.
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