If you have anintrauterine rig (IUD), you will eventually have to get it removed.
This article will cover why you might want or need to have your IUD removed.
It will also go over what happens during the procedure, including the potential complications you should know about.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
An IUD will not be effective after a set amount of time has passed.
If you want to continue using it for birth control, you’ll need to have it replaced.
Each brand of IUD lasts a certain number of years.
Not replacing it with a new one means that yourbirth controlmay not be as effective.
Getting pregnant while you have an IUD can have serious complications like infection and pregnancy loss.
To avoid pregnancy, do not have sex the week before your IUD removal day.
IUD Replacement
you might have a new IUD put in right after your old IUD is removed.
Both procedures can be done at the same visit, as long as there are no complications.
From start to finish, removing an IUD only takes a few minutes.
Will Having My IUD Removed Hurt?
When you had your IUD put in, it may have hurt a lot.
You may have had cramps during and after the procedure.
Having your IUD taken out usually doesn’t hurt as much.
You may have some discomfort as the IUD is being removed and a little cramping after.
Possible Complications of IUD Removal
An IUD removal usually goes well and there are no problems.
However, it is possible for complications to happen.
Once the strings have been pulled into your vaginal canal, the IUD removal can continue.
Your provider can use different imaging techniques, like an ultrasound orX-rayto determine if this has taken place.
It also needs to be surgically removed in the very rare cases where it has moved outside the uterus.
Summary
You may want or need to have your IUD taken out for several reasons.
For example, it might be time to replace the IUD or you may want to get pregnant.
Sometimes, an IUD removal can have complications.
Spotting or light bleeding is common after having an IUD taken out.
The spotting can last for a few hours or days after the IUD is removed.
Passing blood clots after getting your IUD out is not normal.
If you pass blood clots or are having heavier than normal bleeding, call your provider.
It can take up to three months for your period to return to normal after having an IUD removed.
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