Getting a t-shaped stick called intrauterine device inserted into you might sound like a no-go territory, but more women are getting these inserted as a method of birth control. Young women are pulled in different directions, and worry about birth control should not be one of them. Getting the right information is not so hard.

You need to be sure about the myths concerning infections, pain, and inconvenience. So, here are some ways to get the hang of the side effects caused after getting the intrauterine device –

Arm yourself

Also called as IUD, its insertion might hurt, but it all depends on the pain tolerance, cervix position, and more. However, there is nothing you will know until the appointment day. In most cases, the insertion gets done in an hour, sometimes even 15 minutes. But you should take the entire day off, nevertheless. Some experience cramps after the insertion. For additional comfort get a bag of essentials such as a sanitary napkin, a bottle of water or juice, and grab-and-go heating pad.

Do not fret about bleeding

Most women experience some bleeding after insertion. You can write these off as menstrual miracle. Nurses give a few pads after the appointment but stock your cabinet with scent-free liners.

Not all feel the strings

It is usual for you not to find the intrauterine device strings. But the absence of the strings does not mean your IUD has made a great escape into your uterus. The strings sometimes soften and coil behind the cervix, which feels like your nose tip. If you cannot touch them, ask your partner to check.

Increase cramps

Generally, hormonal IUDs reduce cramping and copper IUDs increases them, but like menstrual, cramping can be personal. Invest in quality heating pads. Drinking rose hip tea might help too.

Skin concerns

Unlike the pills, hormonal and copper IUDs do not help with acne or those PMS symptoms. Wait for some months to see if it gets adjusted. Temporary breakouts are a small price to pay for long-term contraception. Besides, you can get done with IUD anytime. Start your skincare routine and seek advice from a dermatologist regarding the same.

Heavier menstrual cycle

It could take anywhere between six to eight months before the body completely adjusts to the intrauterine device. Whether this means bleeding, constant leakage, or somewhere in between, comes to the kind of IUD you have and your body’s reaction to the same. Hormonal IUDs tend to cause a lighter period to none over time. Copper IUDs, on the other hand, tend to come with a longer or heavier period.

Keep calm and carry-on during fallouts

It is sporadic for the IUD to fall out of your body. If the IUD moves, it gets lodged in the lower cervix, causing a unique pain that is not ignorable. If the IUD does fall, it is often within the first three months of the insertion. Most of the time, it happens later. Hence, checking and recognising your body pattern is essential. If the strings are not there but the gyno crosses you off as healthy, download the period tracker app to monitor your changes such as flow, mood, and pain.