Is IUD Removal at Home Safe?

How do you remove an intrauterine device (IUD)? This plastic, T-shaped device, which inserts into the uterus, is an effective method of birth control. While you may think you can remove an IUD at any time, it's safest to have a healthcare provider do it. IUD removal at home is unsafe and can lead to several complications, such as bleeding, dislodged pieces, and pain.

There are two types of IUDs: copper and progestin-releasing IUDs. A copper IUD can last up to 10 years, while a progestin-releasing IUD lasts three to eight years. Read on to learn about IUD removal, including why you shouldn't remove one at home.

Reasons To Remove It

IUDs only last for so long. You'll need to replace them eventually. Different types of IUDs last for different lengths of time. A Paragard IUD must be replaced every 10 years, while the Skyla IUD must be replaced every three years. A healthcare provider can tell you what brand you have and when it needs to be replaced.

There may come a time when you need to remove it earlier than the expiration date. You'll want to remove an IUD, for example, if you are trying to get pregnant. A healthcare provider may need to remove an IUD if you become pregnant with one in place.

Other reasons to remove an IUD include:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• The IUD being malpositioned which could result in feeling the IUD in your vagina
• Severe pelvic pain

Is It Safe To Remove an IUD Myself?

It's understandable to have some questions about whether it's safe to try to remove an IUD yourself at home. Perhaps you do not want to wait for an appointment. You might not have health insurance and are unable to pay out-of-pocket medical costs.

Keep in mind, however, that "taking out your own IUD is not safe," Jessica Shepherd, MD, an OB-GYN based in Texas, told Health. Possible risks could arise, including bleeding, dislodged pieces, and pain.

Bleeding

It's normal for a small amount of bleeding to occur with IUD removal. You could end up with severe bleeding that needs immediate medical attention if the IUD causes tears during removal.

Dislodged Pieces

An IUD typically comes out completely intact, but pieces might break off in the process. It's important to contact a healthcare provider right away if this happens. A dislodged IUD might cause abnormal vaginal discharge, fever, and severe pain and will not effectively prevent pregnancy.

Pain

You might feel pain as the IUD moves out of the cervix (the lowermost part of the uterus) and through the vagina. The strings of the IUD might break during this process and become lodged in the cervix. This may cause severe pain.

How To Remove It

Most health insurance plans cover the cost of IUD removal. Call your local Planned Parenthood to see what options are available to you if you do not have health insurance. You may be eligible for Medicaid or income-based financing.

You'll typically be able to receive an IUD removal at the same place where you had the insertion. This may be a family planning clinic, an OB-GYN's office, a Planned Parenthood facility, or any other health center.

A healthcare provider will tell you about the removal procedure and then obtain your consent. They will ask you to lay on your back with your legs flexed 90 degrees at the hips, placing your feet on the stirrups. The healthcare provider will insert a speculum (a device that widens the vagina) and locate the strings, which rest near your cervix (a firm circle at the top of your vaginal canal). They'll use forceps to gently pull the IUD out.

IUD Removal Side Effects

You may experience side effects after an IUD removal. Call a healthcare provider right away if you have:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge that smells foul
• Fever and chills
• Heavy bleeding
• Severe pain

A Quick Review

IUDs are effective at preventing pregnancy and are a safe method of birth control. These devices do not last forever, and you will eventually need to replace an IUD. Other reasons to remove an IUD include complications and pregnancy. Do not try to remove an IUD at home, whatever the reason, since there can be complications. Contact a healthcare provider to have the procedure done safely.

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