An intrauterine device (IUD) is a highly effective, long-acting reversible contraceptive method inserted directly into the uterus by a healthcare provider. The IUD offers pregnancy prevention for several years, depending on the type used. Post-insertion care is important for minimizing complications and ensuring the device remains effective. Following your clinician’s specific instructions is necessary for a smooth recovery and the IUD’s long-term function.
Immediate Hygiene Rules
Showering is generally considered safe immediately following an IUD insertion and is the recommended way to maintain personal hygiene during the initial recovery period. The procedure does not create an external wound requiring special dressing or protection from running water. You should simply proceed with your normal showering routine.
Activities that involve submerging the pelvis in water, such as taking a bath, swimming, or using a hot tub, are typically restricted. This restriction is often advised for at least the first 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. The cervix is temporarily slightly dilated following insertion, and submersion could increase the chance of introducing bacteria into the upper reproductive tract.
Avoiding submersion for at least a full day helps the cervix close and reduces the theoretical risk of infection. Always confirm the specific duration of this restriction with your healthcare provider, as protocols can differ between clinics. The primary goal of avoiding baths is to safeguard the uterus from contaminants until the internal tissues have begun their initial healing.
Protecting Against Infection
The temporary opening of the cervix during insertion makes the uterus momentarily more susceptible to infection. Healthcare providers recommend avoiding the insertion of anything into the vagina for a short period, typically between 24 hours and two days. This restriction prevents introducing foreign bacteria into the uterine cavity.
Restricted activities include sexual intercourse and the use of tampons or menstrual cups. Patients should use sanitary pads for any post-insertion spotting or bleeding instead of tampons. Douching must also be avoided completely, as this practice disrupts the natural bacterial balance and can push bacteria toward the cervix.
For hormonal IUDs, backup contraception is often recommended for the first seven days if the device was not inserted during a specific window of the menstrual cycle. Copper IUDs are effective against pregnancy immediately upon placement. Adhering to these limitations lowers the risk of developing a pelvic infection.
Managing Normal Recovery and When to Seek Help
It is normal to experience some cramping and spotting or light bleeding in the hours and days following the insertion. The cramping often resembles menstrual cramps and is typically most pronounced in the first 24 hours. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can manage this expected discomfort.
Applying a heating pad to the abdomen can also help alleviate uterine cramping. Mild to moderate cramping can persist intermittently for the first few weeks, but it should consistently improve over time. Spotting or irregular bleeding is a common side effect that may continue for a few months as the uterus adjusts to the device.
Patients should monitor themselves for warning signs that may indicate a serious problem, such as infection or device expulsion. These signs warrant immediate medical attention:
- Severe pain that does not respond to over-the-counter medication.
- An unexplained fever or chills.
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
- Very heavy bleeding (soaking through more than one maxi pad per hour for several hours).
Checking for the IUD’s strings is another important part of self-care, which can offer reassurance that the device remains in the correct position. The strings feel like thin threads and can be felt by inserting a clean finger into the vagina until the cervix is reached. If the strings feel significantly shorter or longer than before, or if the hard plastic of the IUD itself is felt, contact a healthcare provider immediately as this signals the device may have shifted.