IUD removal

Safely removing an intrauterine device

IUD

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A straightforward procedure for removing an IUD

IUDs eventually have to be removed and replaced as they cannot stay in your uterus forever. This is usually as straightforward as the insertion process.

If you are thinking about removing or replacing your IUD, we recommend visiting one of our locations that offers the safe removal of IUDs. We can also offer any advice you may need if you are deciding to use another method of contraception.


Reasons for removing an IUD

Eventually all IUDs need to be removed or replaced.

There are a few reasons for removing an IUD, including:

  • Reaching the expiry of the IUD
  • A desire to become pregnant
  • Developing an infection or side effects
  • Or, simply because you don’t like having an IUD any longer

Some women may believe that they need their IUD removed if they switch sexual partners. This is not true, and your IUD will continue to work to prevent pregnancy effectively no matter how many sexual partners you have. 

What to expect at your appointment 

For most women, the removal of an IUD is a simple procedure performed at our clinics.

To remove the IUD, your qualified practitioner will grasp the threads of the IUD with forceps, collapsing the arms of the IUD, and allowing the device to slide out easily.

There is a small chance the IUD may not slide out quite so easily, but the practitioner will be able to offer a few simple alternative procedure methods. In extremely rare cases, a simple surgery may be required.


Following the removal of an IUD

If you still don’t want to get pregnant following the removal of an IUD, you’ll have to replace it or choose another form of contraception that suits you.

Our call centre staff can help recommend other forms of contraception or you may want to try our online contraceptive advisor to help find the method that best fits your lifestyle.

In general, you should feel completely normal after getting your IUD removed and may just have some spotting. Your period will return to how it was before the IUD was inserted (unless you choose to continue with another form of hormonal contraception).