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Are you having back pain with any of the following?
- Severe pain, weakness or tingling in your leg(s).
- Difficulty stopping urination or loss of control of bladder or bowels.
- Unexplained fever, nausea or vomiting.
- A history of cancer or unexplained weight loss.
We understand that you are experiencing one or more of the health issues that might be impacting your back pain.
We recommend that you discuss these health issues with your doctor before proceeding with this program.
Once you are cleared by your doctor to do this program, we hope it helps you find relief from your back pain.
Frequently Asked Questions About IUDs
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small plastic device shaped like a "T" which is placed into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Many women have questions about intrauterine devices, especially about how they work, how long they prevent pregnancy, and what to expect when an IUD is inserted
Are IUDs safe?
In the past, an IUD called the Dalkon Shield resulted in a number of pelvic infections in women. It was removed from the market in the 1970s. Since then, intrauterine contraceptives have had an excellent safety record. You have an increased chance of getting a pelvic infection within the first few weeks after insertion if you are at risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). For this reason, we may screen you for these infections prior to insertion or counsel you to consider other options. There is now evidence that women without risk factors for STDs may be protected against pelvic infections with these devices.
Do intrauterine contraceptives cause abortion?
No. Neither the copper IUD nor the hormonal IUD cause an abortion. The copper IUD kills sperm and blocks sperm transport so fertilization is prevented. The hormonal IUD releases a small amount of levonorgestrel hormone every day. This causes thickening of the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg and makes the uterine lining thin and unsuitable for pregnancy.
Will it hurt to have the IUD inserted?
There can be mild to moderate cramping at the time of insertion and for the first 24 hours after insertion. Taking ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) before insertion can be helpful.
Will my partner be able to feel the strings?
Usually your partner cannot feel the strings. IUDs have soft, flexible strings that are high up in your vagina, and usually out of the way.
Can I feel the strings?
Yes. In fact, it's a good idea for you to check for the strings after your periods. To do this, insert a clean finger into the vagina and feel for your cervix at the end of your vaginal canal (it feels harder than the rest of your vagina). You should be able to feel the thin strings coming out of your cervix. If you can't feel the strings, or if the strings are a lot longer than before and you're concerned that your IUD may not be in place, give us a call.
Will an IUD make it harder for me to get pregnant in the future?
No. Once the IUD is removed, your chance of becoming pregnant is the same as other women your age. If you have an IUD and decide you want to get pregnant, we can remove the IUD during a short appointment and you will be able to get pregnant immediately.
Can I use an IUD if I have never had children?
Yes, an IUD can be a great option for women who haven't had children. We used to think that an IUD was best for women who had already had a baby, but we now know that it's also a good choice for women who haven't given birth. Women who have not had a child do have a slightly higher chance of experiencing some pain when the IUD is inserted. They also are slightly more likely to have the IUD come out on its own.
If you have an emergency medical condition, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. An emergency medical condition is any of the following: (1) a medical condition that manifests itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity (including severe pain) such that you could reasonably expect the absence of immediate medical attention to result in serious jeopardy to your health or body functions or organs; (2) active labor when there isn't enough time for safe transfer to a Plan hospital (or designated hospital) before delivery, or if transfer poses a threat to your (or your unborn child's) health and safety, or (3) a mental disorder that manifests itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity such that either you are an immediate danger to yourself or others, or you are not immediately able to provide for, or use, food, shelter, or clothing, due to the mental disorder.
This information is not intended to diagnose health problems or to take the place of specific medical advice or care you receive from your physician or other health care professional. If you have persistent health problems, or if you have additional questions, please consult with your doctor. If you have questions or need more information about your medication, please speak to your pharmacist. Kaiser Permanente does not endorse the medications or products mentioned. Any trade names listed are for easy identification only.