French Bread is Overrated
The devil that you know, Looks now more like an angel
I recently had a hormonal IUD placed, and it was a wonderful experience. You can read that sentence again. I had a wonderful experience when a hormonal IUD was placed in my never-been-pregnant uterus. BECAUSE I WAS SEDATED!!!
Y’all, I am the first person I know who got her IUD while under iv sedation, and I hope this becomes the new norm. In my research of “what to expect” I was mortified at the brutality of the procedure. It’s true that it’s quick, smooth, effective, and relatively “pain free” for many women. But when you break down the mechanics of what’s actually going on, it’s horrific.
I avoided having an IUD for years because I was terrified of the pain. Most of my friends have shared this same anxieties and hesitations with me since I’ve been screaming from the rooftops about my experience.
Here’s a YouTube video where an OBGYN explains the process, what can cause pain, and pain management options. I found this really helpful.
You can do further research (I did!), and I am not a doctor and by no means qualified [or attempting] to give medical advice. I was just amazed with how wonderful my procedure went and think everyone should know about it!
My doctor’s office had me sign an IUD Consent form, and then they handled the nitty gritty from there. The most complicated part was coordinating with CVS Specialty for the copayment and shipment of the Mirena to my doctor’s office, and finding a friend to be my “get home safe buddy.” The staff at the office handled most of the leg work and provided me with all the information I needed.
I was able to set up an appointment within 2 weeks (possibly sooner, but I was out of town). My doctor does these procedures on Thursdays around noon at their midtown office.
I had a copayment to CVS of $65 for my device. They used my pharmacy coverage (I never understand what that is and this is the first time I’ve used it). CVS’s next scheduled delivery was actually for the day of my appointment, but they were able to authorize an expedited delivery (no charge) to ensure it would arrive in time for my procedure.
Then I had a $250 Facility Fee (I’m assuming this is because I was getting sedation, but maybe they’d charge this to any IUD patient, I’m not certain). And the Anesthesia Fee was $400 if paid by credit card and $300 if paid by cash (I pulled out the Benjamins).
I have really good insurance, like really good, union insurance, and it still cost me a pretty penny for this 8-year, plastic, peace of mind. The anesthesia is extra, but it is 110% worth it.
Pain wise, there was NO PAIN during the procedure. A very nice nurse held my hand and let me talk nonsense while they placed the IV (I’m horrible with needles). I had mild cramping afterwards, and horrible cramping that night, and then have been good as new. (With the IV they were able to give me fancy Motrin straight to the veins which helps a lot with the pain management.)
It was the second day of my period which apparently can make the cervix looser (less painful) and also means any spotting/cramps could blend in with my typical symptoms. Overall I’d say take the day off, but I was able to function as normal the next morning. I’ve had cramps intermittently since, but nothing significant, and I just carry Aleve in my purse. (Women are tough.)
Ask your doctors about pain management options for IUDs, and about sedation specifically!
Hyper-fixation du jour:
Talk talk ft. Troye Sivan
still brat
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