You probably have questions if you are considering the intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control. A copper IUD device called Flexi-T is a perfect example. This device goes into the uterus and stays there for years. During this time, it offers over 99 percent protection against pregnancy.
One question that comes up frequently is how long does the insertion appointment take when you get Flexi-T? Here’s what you need to know.
An IUD is a small, T-shaped device that a healthcare professional inserts into your uterus. Copper IUDs like Flexi-T are made of plastic but have copper coils. These coils help prevent pregnancy by keeping sperm from entering the uterus.
Sperm tend to shy away from copper. With a copper IUD in place, the coils make the environment inside the uterus inhospitable to sperm, so they stay out.
Copper IUDs are just one type. Some IUDs use hormones to control ovulation. They work the same way birth control pills or injections do. The hormones stop you from ovulating, so no egg travels down the fallopian tube for fertilization.
Some women prefer the copper IUD because it doesn’t use hormones. They can affect your mood and make you feel tired. The copper IUD has fewer side effects as a result.
They are one of the most effective forms of contraception on the market. Higher than the other common forms, such as pills and injections. This is especially true for copper IUDs since they don’t rely on hormones.
Copper IUDs are even an effective means of emergency birth control. The IUD will protect you from any sex you might have had in the previous five days. So, it will protect you even after you have had unprotected sex.
The procedure to get an IUD is the same regardless of the brand. The healthcare provider doing the insertion will ask you about your medical history. This is to ensure that an IUD is a suitable choice for you. It might not be recommended for someone with fibroids or other uterine issues.
The provider will also use a speculum to check your vagina, cervix, and uterus. It will be similar to getting a pelvic exam. They may also test for STDs.
Assuming everything is fine, the healthcare provider will insert IUD through the neck of the cervix and install it into the uterus.
You can expect the insertion procedure to take about five minutes. You may be at the office longer, though. It will take time to check you in and get you ready to do the insertion.
Afterward, you may feel cramping, so it might be wise to take the day off and rest. Also, some women experience dizziness during and after the procedure. For this reason, they may ask you to rest in the office for a few minutes to ensure you are all right before leaving. In addition, some healthcare providers require you to bring someone who can drive you home. The office staff will give you a list of things to watch for and how to manage cramps if it happens during your appointment.
Some women say they feel mild pain and cramping during the IUD insertion. It is different for everyone, though. If there is any pain, it should only last a minute or two. Tell the health care provider if you feel it is longer than that.
If you have had an IUD before and felt a lot of pain, getting medication to make the insertion easier may be possible. They can inject a numbing solution into the uterus to keep you more comfortable. If they don’t mention it, ask if it is possible.
Again, it is different for everyone. Some women experience no discomfort with copper IUD insertion. Others notice some cramping and backaches afterward. This isn’t anything to worry about; it’s normal. You might even have some spot bleeding. This is more common if you get a hormonal IUD, though.
These devices use hormones that can have side effects. Since copper IUDs don’t use hormones, you are less likely to experience problems.
As soon as you feel comfortable, it is okay to have sex. The copper IUD will provide immediate protection. It will even work as emergency contraception to protect you if you have unprotected sex within the previous five days. That is one of the benefits of choosing Flexi-T. Since it is a copper IUD, you do not have to wait for the hormones to take effect. Birth control starts immediately and lasts as long as the device is in place.
Find out more about Flexi-T copper IUD today by visiting our website.