How Is an IUD Removed?
Most IUD’s currently available consist of a polyethylene T-shaped frame that is attached to two strings. When the IUD is inserted, the strings are cut so that they can be seen coming from the cervix when the doctor performs a speculum exam at your yearly visit. In order to remove an IUD, your health care provider will usually perform a speculum exam. If he/she is able to see the strings, he/she will grasp the strings with an instrument and gently remove the IUD. This usually takes all of 2 seconds! If your health care provider cannot see the strings, he/she may gently open up the cervix and use a probe to find the IUD in your uterus and remove it. This may require local anesthetic (freezing). In very rare cases, the health care provider may not be able to remove the IUD in the office and it may need to be removed in the operating room with the help of a hysteroscope (a telescope that is inserted into the uterus to help him/her locate the IUD).
Having an IUD removed or replaced is usually simple. Your health care provider will do it for you. Women should never try to remove IUDs themselves or ask nonprofessionals to do it for them. Serious damage could result. In rare cases, IUDs cannot be easily pulled free. In these cases, the cervix may have to be dilated and a surgical tool may be used to free the IUD. In very rare cases, surgery becomes necessary.
