Overview

You can use a hormonal IUD for 3 to 8 years, depending on what brand you have. The copper IUD is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be used for up to 10 years. But studies show that extended use of the copper IUD safely prevents pregnancy for up to 12 years. Talk to your doctor about what might be right for you.

It's always your choice to have the IUD removed at any time for any reason. You may want it removed because you want to become pregnant or to use a different birth control method. Otherwise, your doctor will remove your IUD at the end of its effectiveness or if you have a medical problem.

It takes just a few minutes for your doctor to remove the IUD. You can ask to have a new IUD placed at the same time.

How it is done

Your doctor will remove the IUD during an office visit. You may be asked to take a pain medicine such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) 30 to 60 minutes before your appointment. This can help with cramps during the IUD removal.

First, you'll have some privacy to get ready. You'll be asked to take off your clothes below the waist. But you will get a covering to drape around your waist. When it's time for the procedure, your doctor will ask you to lie back on the table. It has footrests that help keep your legs comfortable.

To remove the IUD, your doctor will gently put a tool called a speculum into your vagina. It opens the vagina a little bit. You may feel some pressure. Your doctor will look for the IUD strings that usually come through the cervix. The doctor will use a tool to hold the strings and gently pull on them. The arms of the IUD fold up as it slides through the cervix and out the vagina. You might feel some cramping. Then the speculum is removed.

If your doctor doesn't see the strings, other tools may be used. Or an ultrasound may be done to help with IUD removal.