One of the most common questions women ask when considering an IUD is: “What can I expect during the insertion appointment?”
It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous, particularly if you’ve never had an IUD before. Understanding the process can help you feel more informed and confident about your decision.
At South Melbourne Medical Hub, Dr Emma Hattle provides IUD consultations, insertions and removals, helping patients understand their options and feel supported throughout the process.
Before Your IUD Insertion
Before an IUD insertion, you’ll attend a pre-procedure consultation with your GP.
This appointment is an opportunity to discuss your contraceptive options, medical history, current medications and future pregnancy plans. Your GP will explain the different types of IUD available and help determine which option may be most suitable for you.
It’s also the perfect time to ask questions and discuss any concerns you may have, including the insertion procedure itself and pain management options.
Discussing Pain Management
Many women are understandably concerned about discomfort during an IUD insertion.
Everyone’s experience is different. Some women experience mild cramping similar to period pain, while others may find the procedure more uncomfortable.
Pain management options are discussed during your pre-consultation. Your GP will take the time to understand your medical history, previous experiences and individual concerns to help determine the most appropriate approach for you.
The aim is to ensure you feel informed, prepared and supported throughout the process.
What Happens During the Insertion?
The insertion procedure is performed in the clinic and usually takes around 10–15 minutes, although you should allow additional time for preparation and recovery.
Your healthcare professional will first examine you to assess the size and position of your uterus. A speculum, similar to the instrument used during a cervical screening test, is then gently inserted into the vagina.
The IUD is carefully placed inside the uterus. Once positioned correctly, the fine threads attached to the device are trimmed, leaving a short length high inside the vagina. These threads allow the IUD to be checked and removed in the future if required.
Your doctor will explain each step of the process and answer any questions you may have before proceeding.
What Does an IUD Insertion Feel Like?
Experiences vary from person to person.
Some women describe the insertion as brief cramping or strong period-like discomfort. Others report only mild discomfort during the procedure.
It’s also common to experience some cramping afterwards, particularly during the first day or two following insertion. Most women find that these symptoms gradually settle over time.
What Should I Expect Afterwards?
Following your insertion appointment, you may experience:
• Mild cramping
• Light bleeding or spotting
• Changes to your bleeding pattern in the weeks or months that follow
These changes are often a normal part of your body adjusting to the IUD.
Hormonal IUDs commonly cause irregular spotting during the first few months before periods often become lighter. Copper IUDs may initially cause heavier or longer periods.
Your doctor will explain what is considered normal and when to seek medical advice.
When Should I Contact My Doctor?
While serious complications are uncommon, it’s important to seek medical advice if you experience:
• Severe or worsening pain
• Heavy bleeding
• Fever or signs of infection
• Concerns that the IUD may have moved
• Any symptoms that are causing concern
References and Further Reading
This article has been developed using information from reputable Australian healthcare organisations and is intended as a general educational resource. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice.
Sources consulted in the preparation of this article include:
• Healthdirect Australia
• Sexual Health Victoria (SHV)
• RACGP
If you have questions about contraception, IUDs or Implanon, we encourage you to book an appointment with your GP to discuss the options most appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
The insertion itself usually takes around 15 minutes, but you should allow additional time for preparation, discussion and recovery.
Most women are able to return home independently after their appointment. However, because experiences vary, some women prefer to arrange transport or have someone accompany them.
This depends on the type of IUD and when it is inserted during your menstrual cycle. Your doctor will explain any additional contraception requirements during your appointment.
Yes. An IUD can be removed at any time by a trained healthcare professional, and fertility generally returns quickly after removal.
For a limited time, Medicare card holders can access a bulk-billed pre-consultation and IUD insertion procedure with Dr Emma Hattle until 31 July.
This offer is available as part of a broader initiative to improve access to long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) and women’s healthcare.
After 31 July, standard consultation and procedure fees may apply. Please contact our reception team for current pricing and eligibility.
Private patients are welcome to book an appointment; however, out-of-pocket costs may apply. Our reception team and billing page can provide information about fees and appointment options before booking.
Please note that costs associated with the IUD device itself may vary depending on the type of IUD prescribed, which will be discussed in your consultation.
There are several highly effective contraceptive options available, including Implanon (the contraceptive implant). During your consultation, your GP can discuss the benefits and considerations of different long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) options and help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Book an IUD Consultation
If you’re considering an IUD and would like to learn more about your options, Dr Emma Hattle can discuss whether an IUD may be right for you.
Medicare card holders can currently access bulk-billed IUD consultations and insertion procedures with Dr Emma Hattle until 31 July as part of a limited-time initiative to improve access to long-acting contraception.
To book an appointment, contact South Melbourne Medical Hub or book online today.