Help getting an IUD?

Question

My obgyn refused to talk to me about getting an IUD because I haven't been pregnant or given birth before and my cervix was too tight. Has anyone heard of this before??
I researched them pretty thoroughly before going in and that never came up.

Answer

Some doctors in America are still very cautious with IUDs when a woman has not given birth before. In Europe the IUD is a more known form for birth control, even for women who haven't had a baby. I have heard of doctors refusing to insert an IUD if they fear the cervix is too small, it's kind of up to the doctor is he or she is willing to do the procedure. Speaking from personal experience, I got the Paragard copper IUD several years ago and had it in for 7 years. In that time I did not pregnant, which was good. Most of the time it was ok, but usually the first 3 days of the period I had moderate to severe pain in the cervix/uterus area. My period flow was also very heavy. Sometimes it would move a bit and hurt too, but only for an hour or so, pain meds helped with that. Then this year I decided to switch to the Skyla IUD because I thought I would have less pain and have lighter periods. With Skyla I was in moderate pain 20-25 days out of the month, and several of those days I was in severe pain. I also have experienced hair loss, I probably have half the hair I used to. Six months later and no change (doctor said pain may decrease with time)... I got the Skyla out last week and am now waiting for my hair to grow back. I would advise to carefully consider all BC options. You can stop taking a pill anytime, but the IUD has to be inserted and removed by the doctor. Good luck!

Answer

I haven't heard of a cervix being too tight, but my friend's doctor told her she wouldn't do it because she also hadn't given birth. My doctor didn't have an issue, but did say it could be tough without having given birth before (I had a copper one, which is a bit bigger than a hormonal IUD). Sure enough, it took 3 attempts before it fit in my "small cavity" (his words, not mine). That part was awful, but worth it in the end. Maybe get a second opinion? I've heard North American doctors (I'm in Canada) are a bit behind the times compared to their European counterparts when it comes to IUDs.

Answer

If your cervix is too tight then they can't do the procedure because it will hurt/be dangerous on your part. It's probably for the best if your doctor says so! you might ask about the Skyla, it's the smallest one and the one that's best for women who have never been pregnant or had children before

Help getting an IUD?

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