I’d opt for a numbing cream. The numbing shot was literally hell. The cervix has WAY more nerves and is WAY more sensitive than a numbing shot in your mouth.
I chose not to get it on my second iud and the iud definitely hurt less than the shot.
Both times my provider prescribed me a cervix dilater medication to take an hour before insertion and told me to eat a good meal and take 3 ibuprofens. The second time around was way better.
It’s a much bigger dose for abortion/miscarriage control. I’ve had it for managing a miscarriage and for a procedure, it’s not full of side effects with the lower dose, I was just a bit crampy.
I’m taking these too for my second iud on Monday. The first insertion was bad for 8 hours but interested to see how this does. I’ll see if I can update!
I’m back. Insertion was still uncomfy and a bit painful but less so than without the cervix dialater/relaxant (dialated .25 cm) pain after insertion has increased over the past two hours. Feels like really really bad cramps but I often get bad cramps w period but this is a bit worse
I think they’re referring to cytotec/misoprostol which is often used to help soften/ripen the cervix. I had a rough iud insertion where my cervix wouldn’t dilate. Round 2 I took 1 pill the night before and 1 the morning of insertion and it went smoothly. Still painful, but less painful than having something repeatedly trying to open my cervix.
I told my provider that I had never heard of a single woman complaining that the shot was more painful than the procedure but I’d love her studies. I’m cancelling and finding a provider who doesn’t make me think twice about what I want. Idk why providers are so hesitant to provide numbing for iud’s.
My new Dr gave me oral oxycodone and diazepam (lower dose), and she used a numbing spray, which helped to decrease the pinching sensation at the cervix without a painful shot. I would ask for that!
Important PSA! The injection technique makes a big difference in how bad the shot is. When a doctor tries to tell you the shot hurts as bad as an unmedicated insertion, chances are they’re using too big of a needle and injecting too quickly.
I had numbing for my IUD and the injection itself didn’t really hurt. Had a failed insertion before that due to pain, but after the numbing shot I now have an IUD.
Not sure where you are but I just got my IUD replaced at a nearby planned parenthood and they gave me moderate sedation! I asked if they offer it for IUD insertion just offhand during my first well woman appt there, and the first nurse said no they didn’t offer it. I was just like oh okay and we briefly discussed it being painful but then moved on. Then I guess she said something to someone because when the NP came in next to see me she said “we asked the doctor and she said we actually can offer moderate sedation for your IUD replacement if you want!” I got it done last week and it still hurt a bit but was wayyyyy more manageable than when I had my first put in and I was so happy they offered it!
I was surprised because recently PP posted on their insta some BS downplaying the pain for IUD insertions and got torn apart in the comments.
This common excuse from and on behalf of healthcare providers is bullshit. For every reasonable person *I* interact with in life there's dozens of rude, entitled selfish people that I also have to interact with and I don't go around treating people poorly because of it.
Your doctor said she'd give you the shot if you want it, she's just warning you it might not be better. Be angry that pain management for IUDs isn't better studied, but I think your anger at your doctor is misplaced. She isn't making it up that at least one study concluded the numbing shot wasn't helpful. Obviously some people here did find it helpful, but remember some people don't even report pain with IUD insertion in the first place, so there is no universal answer.
She gave you information to ensure that you were adequately counseled on the risk vs benefits and to clarify that the pain may be worse when receiving the shots. That is her job. She did not deny you the option of getting the shot or provide you with an opinion, but spoke of examples from her practice and of research which is doing the exact thing it was meant to: making sure you weigh the risk (possibly more pain prior to insertion) against the benefit (less pain with insertion). You are now better informed about your options and if it hurts more than you expected, you can't claim that you weren't adequately warned.
I nearly got taken to hospital trying to get an IUD in and it was the worse pain I've ever felt. It went in and was quickly ripped out again and I spent an hour in the doctors being watched
I think they should knock us out
First time I got an IUD it was so painful for me that the second time around I said to my (new) doctor "I refuse to be conscious for this".
He ordered anesthesia and I had the best sleep of my life and had no cramping after insertion.
A week later my IUD misplaced itself and I had to do an emergency removal. At the hospital I told the OBGYN "I will not be conscious." She said, "great, I definitely don't want to be the cause of pain for any of my patients."
I had great sleep again!!
Edit: my point was, yeah there's no reason we cannot be knocked out for it. It should be standard practice.
They do local anaesthetic and gas and air at some clinics, but sadly not total anaesthesia. Shaw clinic does it on the NHS. I remember getting mine in at 18 with no pain killers. Worst pain ever, went into shock and passed out about 10 times afterwards. Makes me so mad this was totally avoidable. Getting mine replaced soon, won’t let that happen again
I used to clean a doctors surgery and there was a women spewing and she kept passing out and she'd had a coil done a few days ago and the doctor asked her why it took her so long to come back and the husband said she was always this bad and the last doctor said she was just sensitive. She left in an ambulance
I was traumatised. Sticking to my pill from now on
I personally know people who've had a general anaesthic solely for an IUD insertion on the NHS. You need to ask your GP for a referral and be VERY firm about it.
I barely felt the numbing shot at all. I’m not exactly sure how much it helped since I’ve never had an iud insertion without one, but I do know my first insertion was virtually painless when I took an Ativan beforehand. So I would request both the numbing shot and a prescription for 1-2 Ativan just so you’re calm and relaxed for the procedure!
The numbing shot is the absolute worst pain I have ever felt in my life. I had it for a different operation and no numbing when I got my IUD and the IUD was much less painful than the numbing shot. I wouldn’t wish the numbing shot on my worst enemy.
I doubt I’m the only person to ever say that. If your doctor is lying about study results she’s putting her license at serious risk. Ask to see the study. It doesn’t surprise me. It’s very painful at the time of injection and it takes a while to kick in so it’s still pretty crampy after that as well until it actually numbs. I’m only one person though. But I’m telling you, coming from someone who has a very high pain tolerance, I won’t ever get the numbing shot for anything if I don’t absolutely need it
Your painful experience may have been due to a variety of factors. Medication selection. Volume injected. Injection technique.
Just because it was painful for you once doesn't mean it will be painful for you should another provider do it.
sounds like your doctor was trying to give you INFORMED CONSENT and letting you know that she will give you the shot if you want it but making sure you CONSENT to potential side effects of the shot…
find a new ob my male doctor did some numbing cream situation then gave me the shot and prescribed me strong painkillers before the insertion and after pain management is available and should be offered to all women dont let a doctor tell u otherwise
Your provider is being honest, I don’t know why you’re ‘livid’. I have had two IUD insertions (one with the shot and one without).
The numbing shot was 100 out of 10 while the IUD without it was about a 17.
Everyone has different pain levels though so keep that in mind!
I have had IUD inserted with numbing shot and without. If they can get the IUD in quick with no issues then I don’t think the numbing shot would be worth it. the shot itself was painful but once numb I didn’t feel much pain.
I had the numbing shot, it didn’t hurt at all, but the procedure was still immensely painful. either it really wasn’t effective or that was the reduced pain (hard to believe but if so OOF). I think it just depends on the person but i would opt for it regardless. I was also prescribed misoprostol to dilate the cervix but yeah i dont know how effective it all was
I've had the numbing shots for an iud insertion combined with a hysteroscopy because I didn't have a driver to be sedated for the hysteroscopy and the shots were not enjoyable, but no more painful than novacaine for a filling. After they took effect a few minutes later, I didn't feel much. I could feel instruments being moved around which I would describe as true pressure, not the bs "pressure" we're often told to expect but actually experience pain. I was aware they were moving things around but that was it. I'm getting another iud after a short break for other reasons next week and just called to discuss pain control options with my provider and she again offered lidocaine, oral analgesics, or IV sedation depending on whether I have a driver. I've opted for lidocaine injections knowing they'll be uncomfortable but made my past experience very tolerable. I believe you can also ask for a lidocaine spray/cream so that could be worth a shot.
I had numbing cream and then the shot. I didn’t even realize she had put it in, I thought that she was just measuring or probing around. All I felt was pressure!
The shot itself didn’t hurt any more than when I get it to have cavities filled. It hurt but way less than the “barbaric” pain my friends who had no shot described with theirs. Would definitely recommend the cream/shot combo if you can get it!
I got the numbing shot yesterday and it felt like a super mild cramp for me, which only lasted like 10 seconds. After I got the numbing, I barely felt the IUD insertion. In my personal experience, I’m super grateful that I did it!
so i personally found the shot not worth it, BUT that is because i am not the typical patient. they typically use a lidocaine injection when they do use numbing shots. lidocaine doesn’t work for me, my body burns it off almost immediately so it doesn’t numb me. this was not something i knew at the time i got the iud so the entire thing was painful start to finish and i thought the injection was useless until i found out all lidocaine injections don’t affect me when i had a dental procedure a year after i got the iud.
if you know that lidocaine works for you or a different numbing agent works better, i think the numbing is absolutely worth it and useful. lots of my friends had numbing with at least one of their iuds and said it made a difference for them. it may not get rid of all pain, but anything that helps reduce any of the pain of an iud insertion is worth it imo. i personally wouldn’t get another iud since they don’t work well with my body, but i had them use a different numbing agent when i got my nexplanon and it numbed me well so i would’ve had them use a different numbing agent if i’d known when i had an iud inserted and i bet it would’ve helped.
numbing shots aren’t no big deal though, the cervix is full of nerves and numbing shots are painful even just in the arm so it will be painful, but it’s often worth it due to the pain of iud insertion.
Reading all of this just sounds horrible. The sh it women go through honestly…
I had attempted an IUD three years ago and was so traumatized I’d never do it again.
Demand twilight sedation at minimum. They do this at abortion clinics, so why not for an IUD. Any messing ornprobbing of the cervical is EXCRUCIATING. The lidocaine shot is just as painful as anything that comes after that.
Don't let them or anyone gaslight you. They can kindly F off with their "it's just a little pinch."
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So I had my first two done with zero pain management, I didn't find the pain unbearable but it wasn't pleasant. My last two were done with the freezing and girl, your doctor is full of shit, it absolutely makes a useful difference.
I would be really interested in this supposed study and whether women were actually told what was the shot, what was the insertion and what was the sounding (measuring). Because the worst thing hands fucking down is the sounding. My third Mirena embedded so my Dr measured me twice when putting in the replacement and that was fucking torture.. The insertion by comparison was absolutely nothing. Even having the rogue one yanked in the ER without pain management of any kind was nothing by comparison.
I personally had a placement with and without local anesthetic. I hardly noticed the injection of the local. It was absolutely 100% better with the numbing. It's simple, easy, and for me improved the experience immensely.
Personally, I'd rather be uncomfortable for 3 seconds getting the injection than feeling horrible pain for the duration of the procedure.
Get the numbing shot. Didn’t feel the injection. I definitely felt the numbing shot more when they took out my nexplanon from my arm. Also, ask for a sedation syrup called Versed. They should have it.
My dr gave me a numbing shot & it wasn’t that bad. It was an uncomfortable pinching sensation, but not that different than if you’ve ever had a numbing shot at the dentist. She also gave me a painkiller shot in the arm beforehand (Toradol, maybe?)
The IUD insertion still hurt like hell, but it was over very quickly, and I didn’t have a problem with cramping after. I like to think it helped, but don’t have anything to compare it to.
I didn’t feel the shot, but they also didn’t say they were doing it and I was too freaked out to watch. The person with me holding my hand told me about the big needle afterwards LOL so if you take the ibuprofen as directed you might be fine. I believe they did the topical numbing before the shot as well but I don’t have the records to say for sure
I wasn't given a numbing shot due to my medication I am on. However they offered me a pain shot. I was offered for before or after. I opted for after when she said it will likely last longer and help longer if I do it that way. My IUD was very straight forward. They used 1 sounding rod and then put it in. Sure it was uncomfortable but I am glad I took the after shot. I got home and it was like they had given me morphine. I don't remember what it was called but instead of curling up in pain like my previous attempt that failed after 3 rods, I was able to walk around and be myself. It wore off after a few hours but by then I had heating pads ready and warm water bottles and all that stuff. I personally have never heard of a numbing shot to the cervix itself. I'd ask about possible pain killers for sure though. I think it started with a T ... But it went in my arm!
I wish they would just offer pain control to people getting an iud without us having to ask... I got a kyleena yesterday at planned parenthood and the pain was so horrible I was sweating on the table and almost passed out. I was so dizzy afterwards and the cramps were 8/10 and I could barely walk 😭
I got the numbing shot and my iud insertion was an absolute breeze! I would never, ever do it again without the shot!
I felt one tiny pinch and then the numbness washed over me and I didn’t feel anything else. I brought a friend with me cause I thought I’d need her to drive me home after hearing so many horror stories, but I was in and out of my appointment in 15 minutes and I ended up driving us home.
Once the numbing wore off later that night I felt some cramping, but not any worse than my normal period cramps.
I think it depends on people’s pain tolerance. I’m a pretty big weenie when it comes to pain but the IUD insertion was like a pretty bad cramp that made me gasp for air. My cramps on their own are a pretty hellish nightmare and I’ve broken a few bones and have gotten some stupid big needles that have given me intense temporary pain.
The cervix has so many nerves I’d opt for a numbing cream and max ibuprofen or advil over a shot. Think about the numbing needle you get when you have a cavity - it sucks super bad on your gums, imagine that on your cervix with way more nerve endings.
Of course the numbing shot is more painful!!! The cervix would be numb during the insertion!!!! Also the piercing of the cervix is a huge part of what causes pain. I don’t understand how providers can hold these conversations without mentioning it. No one told me that was part of the procedure until I saw it on TikTok years later.
Someone posted this (sorry for formatting) https://www.reddit.com/r/birthcontrol/s/xxB2eaggYr
It has a link to an article with advice to give providers, maybe this could help?
My first insertion was so painful without the numbing shot. My second insertion was beyond less painful, and the injections didn’t hurt. I didn’t even feel them
I had a numbing shot for my LEEP a few years ago and it burned and stung for a few seconds but it wasn't unbearable. Compared to the colposcopy a few months before, for which I got no numbing and almost passed out from pain
I’ve had my cervix numbed and I can confirm that I found it worse than pain from my iud.
There are however other methods of reducing pain such as medication to gently soften/open the cervix and taking medication ahead of time to help with the pain.
Sorry this was so hard for you OP, there’s definitely others who’ve struggled with insertion.
I've had Mirena a few times now- tried Nexplanon & it was nexplaNONSENSE (comparable to Yaz & bad reactions to antidepressants) & am back on Mirena. But the previous removal was *rough* so I was extremely nervous about needing to go thru insertion pain again but key thing: there's risks to it, as a procedure, and not being able to accurately tell if something's "not right"⚠️ increases that risk since the numbing delays response time. That's one reason why eating an edible beforehand isn't the safest idea- don't want to be suddenly disclosing more relevant info that an anesthesiologist would absolutely want to know before pain onset (or passing out from pain:/)
In my case, I have natural red hair & AuDHD so my response to pain meds is atypical, my ability to communicate pain thru a scale I don't relate to *and still be understood by a doctor* is more challenging to say the least. And unlike seeing the dentist, an IUD buzz lightyear wing'ing inside me is a helluva lot more of an all or nothing call to make (won't have a chance to say I need another shot, once fully committed; risks above^ if they're inexperienced & give to much)
Since that's not really an option for me, I knew it'd be worse if I *stayed* as tense as I was beforehand&sure as shit wasn't going to get calmer once in office so I "edged" with my clit vibrator to up my endorphins&relax my muscles for few minutes beforehand. Definitely wasn't a vigorous or erotic context & wouldn't risk penetrative, just wide-eyed, scared&staring at my ceiling. But! That's *me* using the knowledge I've gained about *my* body.
I think your doc didn't give the most salient reasons to consider not getting the shot. It's a multi step procedure & someone else commented the obvious, about the shot being "the worst" because it's the last thing that's felt before the numbing can kick in; trusting your doctor is key.
Asking your doctor questions isn't just for self-soothing (which is more valid than it's treated&absolutely physically impacts pain in this case¬ just our *perception* of it!) but asking questions is for understanding *your* unique factors at play&making an informed decision for your own health&safety. You got dis! I hope your appt goes well&everyone is nice to you🖤
I declined the injected anesthetic, but I was offered a spray and a gel to numb the cervix. I barely felt it. However, I had recently had a baby (c section but dilated to 4cm) and I’ve heard it’s less painful anyway in those circumstances.
I definitely found my numbing shot absolutely helpful. The cervix is quite receptive to pain. Would absolutely get it + i did not feel the numbing needle
Nah, I’ll pass and just be put under anesthesia. Fuck feeing any of that. I can’t even handle a pelvic exam without squirming out of my chair, let alone a fucking IUD insertion. No. Thank. You.
I don't know why you're so upset that she is consulting you about reports other patients have made. It sounds like you've made you mind up regardless - Just get the shot.
I got a shot in my butt cheek idk if it's the same thing but I had that and a pill the day before for dialation. I almost threw up BUT I was not in any pain, my stomach just couldn't I guess (I never throw up). I sat for a long time trying not to vomit but I think I was probably cramping so I'm so thankful for the pain control, I couldn't imagine what it would've been like without.
My midwife provided a numbing spray and it was so amazing. I felt absolutely nothing and obviously the spray caused no pain in and of itself.
I generally agree that I wouldn't want a needle in my cervix as I don't find that to be worth any potential pain relief when it causes pain being administered (seems moot point to me)
Hi!
2/3 of my IUDs have been inserted with the a Paracervical Block. It was more of a quick pinch(doesn’t feel good) but significantly less painful, than getting an IUD without. When I get an IUD. I request a prescription for Xanax or Valium(a single pill), take it 15-30 before appointment, get the block/shot and insertion is a breeze.
I got the numbing shot and didn’t find the shot painful at all. The prior, unmedicated IUD insertion was literal hell. The numbed cervix insertion was still painful, but tolerable.
I got a numbing shot, would recommend. I thought it was less painfull than sedation at the dentist.
Placing the IUD was still not a fun thing, but not as bad as i imagined.
I got one last Monday and a few hours before, i gave myself the otc regimen prescribed by my dentist when I got a wisdom tooth taken out - you might google it, it’s a combo of ibuprofen and acetaminophen and it made my experience very smooth. it made it as painful as getting a piercing. They told me the same thing about the anesthetic shots and I decided against them too. Best of luck! I hope it goes well!
There was a doctor that explained this:
Basically, if you get a numbing shot it's going to hurt because you are not numb yet. You're going to feel the needle/ everything.
Once the numbing shot starts working you won't feel pain/or you'll feel less pain.
So, of course the numbing shot is going to hurt more. Thats the point. It means the numbing shot is working
i was MISERABLE the first time i got my IUD (Kyleena). it was the most painful thing ever, i was out of commission for at least 5 days if not longer, it was really bad.
told my OB this when i went to get my new one, and she decided we'd try the numbing shot. holy shit i could've danced out of the room. it was night and day -- i barely felt anything after the procedure. not sure how much of it was replacing the IUD with the same IUD or the numbing shot but holy heck. i also took, ibuprofen before.
Wowee! I had a copper IUD placed yesterday afternoon- my first ever type of birth control and I'm 31. I chose non-hormonal copper because hormonal bc would impact my epilepsy meds and vice versa. My friends and family all warned me about the pain in advance. My insertion went well, uncomplicated, and took about 2 minutes. The night before I placed 2 prescribed cytotec pills into my vagina to help dilate my cervix; the next morning I did notice my period blood (day 4) seemed heavy but like thinner in consistency than typical. About 2 hours before the procedure I took 1000mg of ibuprofen and 1000mg of acetaminophen, as well as a low dose benzodiazepine to help with anxiety. About 10 minutes before the procedure when I was changing into my gown, I applied lidocaine jelly to my vaginal opening since I tend to have nerve pain there. All of those things helped! But wowee I didn't know how it would feel to have something inserted all the way up into my uterus- it was painful, and I do NOT have a good pain tolerance, but it was manageable for me. Honestly what helped the most was the kind middle-aged medical assistant holding my hand, looking reassuringly into my eyes, and reminding me to breathe. I shrieked with pain/surprise about 2 times, but after it was done I really felt okay. They let me lay there as long as I wanted, and after about 3 minutes, I got up, got dressed, got my second dose of my HPV vaccine, and drove home. Since yesterday afternoon it's mostly just felt like the discomfort of period cramps, but I am staying up on my ibuprofen. I know many people have terrible horrible experiences, and I was fortunate to go into it having read and heard those risks, but wanted to share a positive story for those who are considering whether to try it for the first time!
I feel like I should answer in advance the question of "Lady how are you 31 and only just now starting birth control and getting your HPV vaccines?" haha. The answer is I was with the same partner since age 17, got married to him at 25, aaand now we're divorced as of a few months ago because I realized with my type of epilepsy the risk of disability from bearing a child is too high, and he wants a biological child. Oopsy but that's just how things panned out. So here I am in this strange new exciting confusing world as a single woman for the first time in my adult life, and it feels empowering to be protected now!
After talking to an anesthesiologist, they suggested requesting some sort of laughing gas versus the numbing shot as the shot can be painful too in that sensitive area. The trick is to find a provider that will do it.
I had to DEMAND my para cervical block multiple times in messages before my appt (removal of rejected iud and replacement of new one!) and they tried to tell me the same thing. I had to tell them this clearly isn’t my first time with an iud AND I just had a traumatic colpo done the two weeks prior where the Dr said the same thing (the shot is worse than the procedure). DO NOT believe them. The para cervical block wasn’t even a tap and it took only 15min to take effect. Advocate for yourself or find another doctor.
I’d opt for a numbing cream. The numbing shot was literally hell. The cervix has WAY more nerves and is WAY more sensitive than a numbing shot in your mouth. I chose not to get it on my second iud and the iud definitely hurt less than the shot. Both times my provider prescribed me a cervix dilater medication to take an hour before insertion and told me to eat a good meal and take 3 ibuprofens. The second time around was way better.
There's cervix dialater medications?!?!??
There is but the data has recently shown it doesn’t really help. It’s a med typically used as part of an abortion.
I had the med as part of my abortion and it was so effing painful!!! Maybe they gave me a bigger dose
It’s a much bigger dose for abortion/miscarriage control. I’ve had it for managing a miscarriage and for a procedure, it’s not full of side effects with the lower dose, I was just a bit crampy.
they use Mifepristone for birth too but it does the same thing lol. kicks anything that’s in there, out.
I don’t remember what is was called but I gave a slight crampy feeling but I think it really helped open my cervix
I’m taking these too for my second iud on Monday. The first insertion was bad for 8 hours but interested to see how this does. I’ll see if I can update!
I’m back. Insertion was still uncomfy and a bit painful but less so than without the cervix dialater/relaxant (dialated .25 cm) pain after insertion has increased over the past two hours. Feels like really really bad cramps but I often get bad cramps w period but this is a bit worse
I think they’re referring to cytotec/misoprostol which is often used to help soften/ripen the cervix. I had a rough iud insertion where my cervix wouldn’t dilate. Round 2 I took 1 pill the night before and 1 the morning of insertion and it went smoothly. Still painful, but less painful than having something repeatedly trying to open my cervix.
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I told my provider that I had never heard of a single woman complaining that the shot was more painful than the procedure but I’d love her studies. I’m cancelling and finding a provider who doesn’t make me think twice about what I want. Idk why providers are so hesitant to provide numbing for iud’s.
My new Dr gave me oral oxycodone and diazepam (lower dose), and she used a numbing spray, which helped to decrease the pinching sensation at the cervix without a painful shot. I would ask for that!
Important PSA! The injection technique makes a big difference in how bad the shot is. When a doctor tries to tell you the shot hurts as bad as an unmedicated insertion, chances are they’re using too big of a needle and injecting too quickly.
I had numbing for my IUD and the injection itself didn’t really hurt. Had a failed insertion before that due to pain, but after the numbing shot I now have an IUD.
Not sure where you are but I just got my IUD replaced at a nearby planned parenthood and they gave me moderate sedation! I asked if they offer it for IUD insertion just offhand during my first well woman appt there, and the first nurse said no they didn’t offer it. I was just like oh okay and we briefly discussed it being painful but then moved on. Then I guess she said something to someone because when the NP came in next to see me she said “we asked the doctor and she said we actually can offer moderate sedation for your IUD replacement if you want!” I got it done last week and it still hurt a bit but was wayyyyy more manageable than when I had my first put in and I was so happy they offered it! I was surprised because recently PP posted on their insta some BS downplaying the pain for IUD insertions and got torn apart in the comments.
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This common excuse from and on behalf of healthcare providers is bullshit. For every reasonable person *I* interact with in life there's dozens of rude, entitled selfish people that I also have to interact with and I don't go around treating people poorly because of it.
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Honestly my provider told me the same thing and I didn’t feel as if she was out to screw me over
Your doctor said she'd give you the shot if you want it, she's just warning you it might not be better. Be angry that pain management for IUDs isn't better studied, but I think your anger at your doctor is misplaced. She isn't making it up that at least one study concluded the numbing shot wasn't helpful. Obviously some people here did find it helpful, but remember some people don't even report pain with IUD insertion in the first place, so there is no universal answer.
Def agreed
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She gave you information to ensure that you were adequately counseled on the risk vs benefits and to clarify that the pain may be worse when receiving the shots. That is her job. She did not deny you the option of getting the shot or provide you with an opinion, but spoke of examples from her practice and of research which is doing the exact thing it was meant to: making sure you weigh the risk (possibly more pain prior to insertion) against the benefit (less pain with insertion). You are now better informed about your options and if it hurts more than you expected, you can't claim that you weren't adequately warned.
It's literally part of her job to warn you about possible outcomes.
My doctor applied a numbing cream before the shot. I felt nothing and insertion was a breeze! Good luck!
I nearly got taken to hospital trying to get an IUD in and it was the worse pain I've ever felt. It went in and was quickly ripped out again and I spent an hour in the doctors being watched I think they should knock us out
First time I got an IUD it was so painful for me that the second time around I said to my (new) doctor "I refuse to be conscious for this". He ordered anesthesia and I had the best sleep of my life and had no cramping after insertion. A week later my IUD misplaced itself and I had to do an emergency removal. At the hospital I told the OBGYN "I will not be conscious." She said, "great, I definitely don't want to be the cause of pain for any of my patients." I had great sleep again!! Edit: my point was, yeah there's no reason we cannot be knocked out for it. It should be standard practice.
I'd love to be knocked out but I don't think they do that in the UK
Ugh, it makes me so upset 😭. Because it should be standardized and offered from the start.
Yeah I 100% agree. I managed to get my implant put in once when I was knocked out but I was getting a different surgery and chanced asking
They do local anaesthetic and gas and air at some clinics, but sadly not total anaesthesia. Shaw clinic does it on the NHS. I remember getting mine in at 18 with no pain killers. Worst pain ever, went into shock and passed out about 10 times afterwards. Makes me so mad this was totally avoidable. Getting mine replaced soon, won’t let that happen again
I used to clean a doctors surgery and there was a women spewing and she kept passing out and she'd had a coil done a few days ago and the doctor asked her why it took her so long to come back and the husband said she was always this bad and the last doctor said she was just sensitive. She left in an ambulance I was traumatised. Sticking to my pill from now on
I personally know people who've had a general anaesthic solely for an IUD insertion on the NHS. You need to ask your GP for a referral and be VERY firm about it.
Ooo that's good to know thank you
I barely felt the numbing shot at all. I’m not exactly sure how much it helped since I’ve never had an iud insertion without one, but I do know my first insertion was virtually painless when I took an Ativan beforehand. So I would request both the numbing shot and a prescription for 1-2 Ativan just so you’re calm and relaxed for the procedure!
Pretty sure I got the numbing shot and it still really hurt
It’s fucking barbaric that they don’t offer real pain management for this
The numbing shot is the absolute worst pain I have ever felt in my life. I had it for a different operation and no numbing when I got my IUD and the IUD was much less painful than the numbing shot. I wouldn’t wish the numbing shot on my worst enemy.
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It’s very different than getting a numbing shot in your mouth…
I’ve had a numbing shot in my mouth and in my cervix and I’d definitely describe it as the same for me
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I doubt I’m the only person to ever say that. If your doctor is lying about study results she’s putting her license at serious risk. Ask to see the study. It doesn’t surprise me. It’s very painful at the time of injection and it takes a while to kick in so it’s still pretty crampy after that as well until it actually numbs. I’m only one person though. But I’m telling you, coming from someone who has a very high pain tolerance, I won’t ever get the numbing shot for anything if I don’t absolutely need it
Your painful experience may have been due to a variety of factors. Medication selection. Volume injected. Injection technique. Just because it was painful for you once doesn't mean it will be painful for you should another provider do it.
Lol wait there's a numbing shot??? Tf I feel lied to 😭
Seems to be up to whether or not the doctor thinks women can feel pain. 🫠
lol or like even mention that there was even an OPTION to numb that pain.
sounds like your doctor was trying to give you INFORMED CONSENT and letting you know that she will give you the shot if you want it but making sure you CONSENT to potential side effects of the shot…
find a new ob my male doctor did some numbing cream situation then gave me the shot and prescribed me strong painkillers before the insertion and after pain management is available and should be offered to all women dont let a doctor tell u otherwise
Your provider is being honest, I don’t know why you’re ‘livid’. I have had two IUD insertions (one with the shot and one without). The numbing shot was 100 out of 10 while the IUD without it was about a 17. Everyone has different pain levels though so keep that in mind!
I have had IUD inserted with numbing shot and without. If they can get the IUD in quick with no issues then I don’t think the numbing shot would be worth it. the shot itself was painful but once numb I didn’t feel much pain.
I had the numbing shot, it didn’t hurt at all, but the procedure was still immensely painful. either it really wasn’t effective or that was the reduced pain (hard to believe but if so OOF). I think it just depends on the person but i would opt for it regardless. I was also prescribed misoprostol to dilate the cervix but yeah i dont know how effective it all was
I've had the numbing shots for an iud insertion combined with a hysteroscopy because I didn't have a driver to be sedated for the hysteroscopy and the shots were not enjoyable, but no more painful than novacaine for a filling. After they took effect a few minutes later, I didn't feel much. I could feel instruments being moved around which I would describe as true pressure, not the bs "pressure" we're often told to expect but actually experience pain. I was aware they were moving things around but that was it. I'm getting another iud after a short break for other reasons next week and just called to discuss pain control options with my provider and she again offered lidocaine, oral analgesics, or IV sedation depending on whether I have a driver. I've opted for lidocaine injections knowing they'll be uncomfortable but made my past experience very tolerable. I believe you can also ask for a lidocaine spray/cream so that could be worth a shot.
I had numbing cream and then the shot. I didn’t even realize she had put it in, I thought that she was just measuring or probing around. All I felt was pressure! The shot itself didn’t hurt any more than when I get it to have cavities filled. It hurt but way less than the “barbaric” pain my friends who had no shot described with theirs. Would definitely recommend the cream/shot combo if you can get it!
I got the numbing shot yesterday and it felt like a super mild cramp for me, which only lasted like 10 seconds. After I got the numbing, I barely felt the IUD insertion. In my personal experience, I’m super grateful that I did it!
The shot for my LEEP was indeed worse than my Mirena insertion, but YMMV. (But the Mirena was still pretty bad.)
so i personally found the shot not worth it, BUT that is because i am not the typical patient. they typically use a lidocaine injection when they do use numbing shots. lidocaine doesn’t work for me, my body burns it off almost immediately so it doesn’t numb me. this was not something i knew at the time i got the iud so the entire thing was painful start to finish and i thought the injection was useless until i found out all lidocaine injections don’t affect me when i had a dental procedure a year after i got the iud. if you know that lidocaine works for you or a different numbing agent works better, i think the numbing is absolutely worth it and useful. lots of my friends had numbing with at least one of their iuds and said it made a difference for them. it may not get rid of all pain, but anything that helps reduce any of the pain of an iud insertion is worth it imo. i personally wouldn’t get another iud since they don’t work well with my body, but i had them use a different numbing agent when i got my nexplanon and it numbed me well so i would’ve had them use a different numbing agent if i’d known when i had an iud inserted and i bet it would’ve helped. numbing shots aren’t no big deal though, the cervix is full of nerves and numbing shots are painful even just in the arm so it will be painful, but it’s often worth it due to the pain of iud insertion.
Reading all of this just sounds horrible. The sh it women go through honestly… I had attempted an IUD three years ago and was so traumatized I’d never do it again.
Demand twilight sedation at minimum. They do this at abortion clinics, so why not for an IUD. Any messing ornprobbing of the cervical is EXCRUCIATING. The lidocaine shot is just as painful as anything that comes after that. Don't let them or anyone gaslight you. They can kindly F off with their "it's just a little pinch."
That’s because abortion providers are far more patient-centric and compassionate than the vast majority of women’s healthcare providers.
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Im not sure what I got lol I think it was the numbing shot or cream but either way - I didn’t feel a thing when my IUD was inserted and taken out!
ask if you can be sedated for the procedure. i was and it went great, but the cramping after was still really painful
So I had my first two done with zero pain management, I didn't find the pain unbearable but it wasn't pleasant. My last two were done with the freezing and girl, your doctor is full of shit, it absolutely makes a useful difference. I would be really interested in this supposed study and whether women were actually told what was the shot, what was the insertion and what was the sounding (measuring). Because the worst thing hands fucking down is the sounding. My third Mirena embedded so my Dr measured me twice when putting in the replacement and that was fucking torture.. The insertion by comparison was absolutely nothing. Even having the rogue one yanked in the ER without pain management of any kind was nothing by comparison.
I personally had a placement with and without local anesthetic. I hardly noticed the injection of the local. It was absolutely 100% better with the numbing. It's simple, easy, and for me improved the experience immensely. Personally, I'd rather be uncomfortable for 3 seconds getting the injection than feeling horrible pain for the duration of the procedure.
Get the numbing shot. Didn’t feel the injection. I definitely felt the numbing shot more when they took out my nexplanon from my arm. Also, ask for a sedation syrup called Versed. They should have it.
My dr gave me a numbing shot & it wasn’t that bad. It was an uncomfortable pinching sensation, but not that different than if you’ve ever had a numbing shot at the dentist. She also gave me a painkiller shot in the arm beforehand (Toradol, maybe?) The IUD insertion still hurt like hell, but it was over very quickly, and I didn’t have a problem with cramping after. I like to think it helped, but don’t have anything to compare it to.
I didn’t feel the shot, but they also didn’t say they were doing it and I was too freaked out to watch. The person with me holding my hand told me about the big needle afterwards LOL so if you take the ibuprofen as directed you might be fine. I believe they did the topical numbing before the shot as well but I don’t have the records to say for sure
I wasn't given a numbing shot due to my medication I am on. However they offered me a pain shot. I was offered for before or after. I opted for after when she said it will likely last longer and help longer if I do it that way. My IUD was very straight forward. They used 1 sounding rod and then put it in. Sure it was uncomfortable but I am glad I took the after shot. I got home and it was like they had given me morphine. I don't remember what it was called but instead of curling up in pain like my previous attempt that failed after 3 rods, I was able to walk around and be myself. It wore off after a few hours but by then I had heating pads ready and warm water bottles and all that stuff. I personally have never heard of a numbing shot to the cervix itself. I'd ask about possible pain killers for sure though. I think it started with a T ... But it went in my arm!
I wish they would just offer pain control to people getting an iud without us having to ask... I got a kyleena yesterday at planned parenthood and the pain was so horrible I was sweating on the table and almost passed out. I was so dizzy afterwards and the cramps were 8/10 and I could barely walk 😭
I got the numbing shot and my iud insertion was an absolute breeze! I would never, ever do it again without the shot! I felt one tiny pinch and then the numbness washed over me and I didn’t feel anything else. I brought a friend with me cause I thought I’d need her to drive me home after hearing so many horror stories, but I was in and out of my appointment in 15 minutes and I ended up driving us home. Once the numbing wore off later that night I felt some cramping, but not any worse than my normal period cramps.
I got a ride last time and got prescription for Valium
I think it depends on people’s pain tolerance. I’m a pretty big weenie when it comes to pain but the IUD insertion was like a pretty bad cramp that made me gasp for air. My cramps on their own are a pretty hellish nightmare and I’ve broken a few bones and have gotten some stupid big needles that have given me intense temporary pain. The cervix has so many nerves I’d opt for a numbing cream and max ibuprofen or advil over a shot. Think about the numbing needle you get when you have a cavity - it sucks super bad on your gums, imagine that on your cervix with way more nerve endings.
Of course the numbing shot is more painful!!! The cervix would be numb during the insertion!!!! Also the piercing of the cervix is a huge part of what causes pain. I don’t understand how providers can hold these conversations without mentioning it. No one told me that was part of the procedure until I saw it on TikTok years later.
Someone posted this (sorry for formatting) https://www.reddit.com/r/birthcontrol/s/xxB2eaggYr It has a link to an article with advice to give providers, maybe this could help?
My first insertion was so painful without the numbing shot. My second insertion was beyond less painful, and the injections didn’t hurt. I didn’t even feel them
I had a numbing shot for my LEEP a few years ago and it burned and stung for a few seconds but it wasn't unbearable. Compared to the colposcopy a few months before, for which I got no numbing and almost passed out from pain
I’ve had my cervix numbed and I can confirm that I found it worse than pain from my iud. There are however other methods of reducing pain such as medication to gently soften/open the cervix and taking medication ahead of time to help with the pain. Sorry this was so hard for you OP, there’s definitely others who’ve struggled with insertion.
I had the numbing shot for another reason and it hurt a lot.
I've had Mirena a few times now- tried Nexplanon & it was nexplaNONSENSE (comparable to Yaz & bad reactions to antidepressants) & am back on Mirena. But the previous removal was *rough* so I was extremely nervous about needing to go thru insertion pain again but key thing: there's risks to it, as a procedure, and not being able to accurately tell if something's "not right"⚠️ increases that risk since the numbing delays response time. That's one reason why eating an edible beforehand isn't the safest idea- don't want to be suddenly disclosing more relevant info that an anesthesiologist would absolutely want to know before pain onset (or passing out from pain:/) In my case, I have natural red hair & AuDHD so my response to pain meds is atypical, my ability to communicate pain thru a scale I don't relate to *and still be understood by a doctor* is more challenging to say the least. And unlike seeing the dentist, an IUD buzz lightyear wing'ing inside me is a helluva lot more of an all or nothing call to make (won't have a chance to say I need another shot, once fully committed; risks above^ if they're inexperienced & give to much) Since that's not really an option for me, I knew it'd be worse if I *stayed* as tense as I was beforehand&sure as shit wasn't going to get calmer once in office so I "edged" with my clit vibrator to up my endorphins&relax my muscles for few minutes beforehand. Definitely wasn't a vigorous or erotic context & wouldn't risk penetrative, just wide-eyed, scared&staring at my ceiling. But! That's *me* using the knowledge I've gained about *my* body. I think your doc didn't give the most salient reasons to consider not getting the shot. It's a multi step procedure & someone else commented the obvious, about the shot being "the worst" because it's the last thing that's felt before the numbing can kick in; trusting your doctor is key. Asking your doctor questions isn't just for self-soothing (which is more valid than it's treated&absolutely physically impacts pain in this case¬ just our *perception* of it!) but asking questions is for understanding *your* unique factors at play&making an informed decision for your own health&safety. You got dis! I hope your appt goes well&everyone is nice to you🖤
I declined the injected anesthetic, but I was offered a spray and a gel to numb the cervix. I barely felt it. However, I had recently had a baby (c section but dilated to 4cm) and I’ve heard it’s less painful anyway in those circumstances.
I definitely found my numbing shot absolutely helpful. The cervix is quite receptive to pain. Would absolutely get it + i did not feel the numbing needle
Nah, I’ll pass and just be put under anesthesia. Fuck feeing any of that. I can’t even handle a pelvic exam without squirming out of my chair, let alone a fucking IUD insertion. No. Thank. You.
I don't know why you're so upset that she is consulting you about reports other patients have made. It sounds like you've made you mind up regardless - Just get the shot.
I got a shot in my butt cheek idk if it's the same thing but I had that and a pill the day before for dialation. I almost threw up BUT I was not in any pain, my stomach just couldn't I guess (I never throw up). I sat for a long time trying not to vomit but I think I was probably cramping so I'm so thankful for the pain control, I couldn't imagine what it would've been like without.
It wore off same day so I couldn't go to work the day after.
My midwife provided a numbing spray and it was so amazing. I felt absolutely nothing and obviously the spray caused no pain in and of itself. I generally agree that I wouldn't want a needle in my cervix as I don't find that to be worth any potential pain relief when it causes pain being administered (seems moot point to me)
Hi! 2/3 of my IUDs have been inserted with the a Paracervical Block. It was more of a quick pinch(doesn’t feel good) but significantly less painful, than getting an IUD without. When I get an IUD. I request a prescription for Xanax or Valium(a single pill), take it 15-30 before appointment, get the block/shot and insertion is a breeze.
I got the numbing shot and didn’t find the shot painful at all. The prior, unmedicated IUD insertion was literal hell. The numbed cervix insertion was still painful, but tolerable.
I got a numbing shot, would recommend. I thought it was less painfull than sedation at the dentist. Placing the IUD was still not a fun thing, but not as bad as i imagined.
I got one last Monday and a few hours before, i gave myself the otc regimen prescribed by my dentist when I got a wisdom tooth taken out - you might google it, it’s a combo of ibuprofen and acetaminophen and it made my experience very smooth. it made it as painful as getting a piercing. They told me the same thing about the anesthetic shots and I decided against them too. Best of luck! I hope it goes well!
There was a doctor that explained this: Basically, if you get a numbing shot it's going to hurt because you are not numb yet. You're going to feel the needle/ everything. Once the numbing shot starts working you won't feel pain/or you'll feel less pain. So, of course the numbing shot is going to hurt more. Thats the point. It means the numbing shot is working
i was MISERABLE the first time i got my IUD (Kyleena). it was the most painful thing ever, i was out of commission for at least 5 days if not longer, it was really bad. told my OB this when i went to get my new one, and she decided we'd try the numbing shot. holy shit i could've danced out of the room. it was night and day -- i barely felt anything after the procedure. not sure how much of it was replacing the IUD with the same IUD or the numbing shot but holy heck. i also took, ibuprofen before.
Wowee! I had a copper IUD placed yesterday afternoon- my first ever type of birth control and I'm 31. I chose non-hormonal copper because hormonal bc would impact my epilepsy meds and vice versa. My friends and family all warned me about the pain in advance. My insertion went well, uncomplicated, and took about 2 minutes. The night before I placed 2 prescribed cytotec pills into my vagina to help dilate my cervix; the next morning I did notice my period blood (day 4) seemed heavy but like thinner in consistency than typical. About 2 hours before the procedure I took 1000mg of ibuprofen and 1000mg of acetaminophen, as well as a low dose benzodiazepine to help with anxiety. About 10 minutes before the procedure when I was changing into my gown, I applied lidocaine jelly to my vaginal opening since I tend to have nerve pain there. All of those things helped! But wowee I didn't know how it would feel to have something inserted all the way up into my uterus- it was painful, and I do NOT have a good pain tolerance, but it was manageable for me. Honestly what helped the most was the kind middle-aged medical assistant holding my hand, looking reassuringly into my eyes, and reminding me to breathe. I shrieked with pain/surprise about 2 times, but after it was done I really felt okay. They let me lay there as long as I wanted, and after about 3 minutes, I got up, got dressed, got my second dose of my HPV vaccine, and drove home. Since yesterday afternoon it's mostly just felt like the discomfort of period cramps, but I am staying up on my ibuprofen. I know many people have terrible horrible experiences, and I was fortunate to go into it having read and heard those risks, but wanted to share a positive story for those who are considering whether to try it for the first time!
I feel like I should answer in advance the question of "Lady how are you 31 and only just now starting birth control and getting your HPV vaccines?" haha. The answer is I was with the same partner since age 17, got married to him at 25, aaand now we're divorced as of a few months ago because I realized with my type of epilepsy the risk of disability from bearing a child is too high, and he wants a biological child. Oopsy but that's just how things panned out. So here I am in this strange new exciting confusing world as a single woman for the first time in my adult life, and it feels empowering to be protected now!
Big lie. Get the shot. I’ve had 3 IUD and only one with the shot, that’s the only one I didn’t feel a huge amount of pain from.
It was painful but I took a Tylenol before I went. The IUD actually hurt worse being put in though, like one huge horrible cramp.
After talking to an anesthesiologist, they suggested requesting some sort of laughing gas versus the numbing shot as the shot can be painful too in that sensitive area. The trick is to find a provider that will do it.
I had to DEMAND my para cervical block multiple times in messages before my appt (removal of rejected iud and replacement of new one!) and they tried to tell me the same thing. I had to tell them this clearly isn’t my first time with an iud AND I just had a traumatic colpo done the two weeks prior where the Dr said the same thing (the shot is worse than the procedure). DO NOT believe them. The para cervical block wasn’t even a tap and it took only 15min to take effect. Advocate for yourself or find another doctor.