by Teena Kay

Created on: June 21, 2009

Having an IUD inserted should mean that you do not need to worry about contraception for the next 5 to 10 years depending on the device that was fitted. The traditional copper IUD can stay in the uterus for up to ten years while the slightly larger Mirena (containing a small dose of progesterone) has to be replaced every five years, making the IUD one of the most cost effective ways of contraception.

If the IUD is fitted correctly, you should not experience after effects apart from possible initial cramping the likes of bad period pain. This can be lessened by taking over the counter pain medication. Within a short time, the pain should subside. However, it can happen that cramping will resurface over the first couple of days after insertion. Taking pain killers is a way of combating this.

Once your IUD is inserted into the uterus, it really doesn't require much looking after. However, there are a few things to keep in mind and let your doctor or practice nurse know if necessary.

After your IUD is put in place, you can continue with your life as normal, work, exercise, swim and have sex as soon as you fell up to it. Some women do not feel like having sex right after insertion, others can't wait. But it is very much up to the individual.

Of course, if you are a tampon user, you can continue as normal if and when you periods start. Depending on the type of IUD you may experience longer, shorter, heavier or lighter periods. During the first few months after insertion, while you body is getting used to the device you may experience spot bleeding or more frequent periods. But it will settle after a few months.

Medical Check-Ups

After insertion, you doctor will tell you when to come for your first check up to see if everything is fine and still in place. This usually takes place between four and six weeks after being placed in your uterus. The position of the device is checked to make sure that it is still in the correct position and not causing problems. After this first check up you are not required to have further checks for 12 months. Annual check-ups are recommended just to make sure that everything is still in place and you are still happy with the device.

Self -Examination

During insertion, you doctor should have told you how to check that the device is still in place by checking the position of the strings that stay outside the cervix and are used to remove the IUD at the end of its life (or when you decide to have it taken out because you want to

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