Considering an IUD? We now offer cervical anesthesia during insertion!

When the reproductive rights climate changed in 2022, we expanded our sexual & reproductive health services to support reproductive justice in our community. One service we subsequently added is free and easy access to long-term reversible contraception, like intrauterine devices, or IUDs.

IUDs are long-acting, reversible, safe, and among the most effective birth control methods available

And those aren’t the only benefits! 

• Very little hormone is absorbed into the bloodstream from progestin IUDs, so they tend to have less side effects than pills, patches, rings, and injections.
• Progestin IUDs tend to decrease bleeding and cramping and one, the Liletta/Mirena IUD is FDA approved to treat heavy, painful periods!
• Two types of IUDs, Liletta (progestin) and Paragard (copper) can serve as emergency contraception after unprotected sex and are more effective than emergency contraception pills. 

Sounds great! So, what’s the catch?

Good to ask! Concerns about pain with placing an IUD are one of the biggest barriers that people have to getting an IUD.

We’re proud to offer pain management with IUD insertions

New this year is something we’re proud of – we’re one of the only clinics in the area offering pain management (cervical anesthesia) to all patients getting an IUD.

Data shows that when providing pain relief, the frequency of patients reporting severe pain with insertion is cut in half, and the overall experience of pain is significantly reduced. 

We’re also in the process of training to use ultrasound to place IUDs and to verify they’re properly placed. Ultrasound is another pain reduction strategy because it helps the provider see the angle of the canal into the uterus and helps to reduce the time it takes to perform the procedure. We hope to be finished with training and using this technique soon! 

Thinking about an IUD? 

Since first offering IUDs in our clinic in June 2023 we’ve just placed our 89th IUD!  Our services are confidential, inclusive, and free for everyone! Check out our sexual health webpage for details on making an appointment, what to expect at your appointment, and other services we provide. 

Not sure if an IUD is right for you? We have no-pressure conversations to help  you make informed decisions. You can make an appointment, and we can talk about it!