IUD Insertion in Vancouver: What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Appointment

What to Expect during an IUD Insertion

Thinking about getting an IUD and feeling a bit nervous is completely normal. At Mint Reproductive Health in Vancouver, the goal is to make sure you feel informed, supported, and in control at every step of the process. This guide walks you through exactly what to expect before, during, and after your IUD insertion so there are no surprises.

Before your IUD insertion

The process always starts with a screening phone call. During this call, a doctor will:

• Answer your questions about IUDs and other birth control options.
• Review your medical history to make sure an IUD is safe and appropriate for you.
• Explain the different types of IUDs so you can choose the one that fits your body and lifestyle.

You will also work together to customize a pain management plan so that you feel as comfortable as possible on the day of your insertion. That might include options like oral medications, cervical freezing, or other comfort strategies tailored to you.

Once everything is decided, the clinic arranges to have your IUD and any comfort medications delivered directly to Mint. On the day of your appointment, all you need to do is arrive at the clinic.

When you arrive at the clinic

Your IUD insertion visit in Vancouver begins with a check-in with your doctor. This is your chance to:

• Go over any last-minute questions or concerns.
• Review the steps of the procedure one more time.

Next, an endovaginal (transvaginal) ultrasound is performed. This allows the doctor to:

• Look at your uterus and its position.
• Measure the size and depth of your uterine cavity.
• Confirm that it is safe to place an IUD.

These measurements help improve accuracy and comfort during the insertion and support correct placement of your IUD.

During the IUD insertion

After the ultrasound, the doctor will begin the insertion procedure:

• A speculum (the same instrument used during a Pap test) is gently placed in the vagina so the cervix can be seen clearly.
• If you are due for a Pap test, it can often be done at the same time.
• A cervical block (freezing medication injected into the cervix) is commonly used to reduce pain. This may feel pinchy or crampy for a few seconds.

Once the freezing has taken effect:

• A thin instrument called a uterine sound is passed through the cervix to measure the depth of the uterus and ensure there is a clear path.
• Some people feel a strong cramp at this point—this is normal but usually brief.
• The IUD is then guided through the cervix and placed at the top of the uterus.

The actual insertion takes only a few minutes or less. You may feel another strong cramp as the IUD is positioned. After placement, the strings are trimmed to an appropriate length and the speculum is removed.

After your IUD is placed

At Mint Reproductive Health, the final step of the appointment is another endovaginal ultrasound. This confirms:

• The IUD is correctly positioned inside the uterus.
• The arms of the device are fully opened.

Most people experience some cramping and light to moderate bleeding or spotting after an IUD insertion. Your doctor will review:

• What kinds of cramps and bleeding are expected in the hours and days after your appointment.
• Which symptoms are not typical and should prompt a call to the clinic.

From start to finish, the entire visit usually takes about 30 minutes.

Follow-up and ongoing care

A follow-up placement check is recommended around 4–6 weeks after insertion. At this visit, your doctor will:

• Confirm the IUD has not shifted lower in the uterus or moved out of position.
• Ask how you are feeling and address any side effects such as cramping or changes in bleeding.

If everything looks good at that check, you generally do not need ongoing ultrasound or speculum checks unless:

• You have concerns about the IUD’s position.
• Your bleeding pattern changes suddenly.
• You develop new or severe pain.

Throughout this process, comfort, consent, and clear communication are the priority. At Mint Reproductive Health, the team is committed to making sure you understand what is happening at every step and that your IUD experience feels as calm and supported as possible.