9 Women On What Getting An IUD Is Really Like

By Jessica Chou - Refinery29
January 19, 2017 - Last Updated

“Much like everyone’s “first time” story, women’s IUD experiences are often completely unique. Some insertions feel like just another annual exam. For other women, it’s the worst pain they’ve ever felt.”

“So, how do you choose the right IUD for you? “You have to think about how long you would want to use it, whether or not you are having problems with heavy bleeding during your period, whether or not you’ll be okay with not having a period over time,” Dr. Cullins says. But, it’s also important to talk to your provider and see what he or she has experience with. “The insertion technique is a little different for each of these IUDs, so they need to be trained or experienced with the one that you want,” Dr. Cullins adds. And, while you’re at it, Planned Parenthood recommends calling your insurance to ask which specific IUDs are covered without a co-pay.

Ahead, nine women (two with a copper IUD, seven with hormonal) divulge what it was like to get it inserted — and whether the IUD worked for them.”