IUD removal is a quick, routine procedure, and most people feel completely normal within a day or two.
Here’s what’s typical afterward, when to reach out to us, and what your options are if you’re not ready to be without birth control — or if you’re hoping to conceive.
Prior to Your IUD Removal Appointment
Before your appointment:
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen (Tylenol) about 30 minutes before your appointment.
- Let us know if you’ve had a difficult removal before, if your IUD strings weren’t visible at your last check, or if you’d like to discuss additional pain management options such as Penthrox (the “green whistle”) inhaled gas.
What to Expect in the First 24–48 Hours After IUD Removal
It’s normal to experience some mild symptoms immediately following your IUD removal.
Mild cramping: Period-like cramps are common and usually settle within a day.
Light spotting or discharge: You may notice light spotting or brown discharge for a few days.
Managing discomfort: A heating pad and over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen, can help with cramping.
Returning to normal activities: You can return to your normal activities, including exercise, right away if you feel up to it.
What to Expect in the Days and Weeks After IUD Removal
If you had a hormonal IUD, such as Mirena or Kyleena, your natural cycle will begin to return as the hormone from the IUD clears your system. This can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of months.
Some people notice the return of PMS symptoms, acne, or mood changes that they didn’t experience while using their IUD. This is your natural hormone pattern returning and is not necessarily a sign that something is wrong.
Fertility returns almost immediately after your IUD is removed, which means you can potentially conceive as early as your next cycle. If you’re not trying to become pregnant, it’s important to have a backup birth control method ready before your removal appointment.
When Should You Contact Your Healthcare Provider After IUD Removal?
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Bleeding that soaks through a pad or tampon every hour for two or more hours
- Fever, chills, or foul-smelling discharge
- Severe or worsening pelvic pain beyond typical period-like cramping
- Signs that you may be pregnant unexpectedly, such as a missed period or pregnancy symptoms
Not Ready to Be Off Birth Control?
You don’t have to leave your IUD removal appointment without a birth control plan.
In many cases, we can insert a new IUD or Nexplanon implant, or discuss and begin another method during the same visit as your removal. This means you may not need to book a separate appointment or go without birth control coverage in between methods.
Birth Control Options After IUD Removal
There are several effective ways to prevent pregnancy after having your IUD removed. Depending on the method you choose, we may be able to start or manage your new birth control at Mint during the same visit.
Hormonal IUD
A hormonal IUD is a T-shaped device placed in the uterus that releases hormone locally.
How long it lasts: 5–8 years
Typical effectiveness: More than 99%
Available at Mint: Yes
Copper IUD
The copper IUD is a T-shaped device wrapped in copper wire and does not contain hormones.
How long it lasts: Up to 10 years
Typical effectiveness: More than 99%
Available at Mint: Yes
Nexplanon Implant
Nexplanon is a small rod placed under the skin of the upper arm that releases hormone.
How long it lasts: Up to 3 years
Typical effectiveness: More than 99%
Available at Mint: Yes
Birth Control Pill
The birth control pill is an oral hormone tablet taken every day.
How long it lasts: Taken daily
Typical effectiveness: Approximately 91%
Available at Mint: Yes
Birth Control Patch
The birth control patch is an adhesive patch that is changed weekly.
How long it lasts: Changed weekly
Typical effectiveness: Approximately 91%
Available at Mint: Yes
Vaginal Ring
The vaginal ring is a flexible ring that is changed monthly.
How long it lasts: Changed monthly
Typical effectiveness: Approximately 91%
Available at Mint: Yes
Depo-Provera Injection
Depo-Provera is a hormonal birth control injection given every three months.
How long it lasts: 3 months
Typical effectiveness: Approximately 94%
Available: By referral
Fertility Awareness and Cycle Tracking
Fertility awareness methods involve tracking signs of ovulation to identify fertile days.
How long it lasts: Ongoing
Typical effectiveness: 76–98%
Available at Mint: Yes
Effectiveness rates reflect typical use.
Can I Switch Birth Control Methods at the Same Appointment?
In many cases, yes. If you’d like to try a different birth control method after having your IUD removed, ask your provider about your options.
Many birth control switches can happen during the same appointment, making it easier to maintain continuous contraceptive coverage.
Thinking About Getting Pregnant After IUD Removal?
If you’re removing your IUD because you’re ready to start or grow your family, there are a few things you can do to prepare.
Start a Prenatal Vitamin
Start taking a prenatal vitamin containing folic acid now — ideally at least one month before you begin trying to conceive.
Track Your Menstrual Cycle
Tracking your cycle can help you understand your fertile window. Ovulation predictor kits or basal body temperature tracking can also help pinpoint ovulation timing.
Support Your Overall Health
Sleep, nutrition, stress management, and reducing alcohol and smoking can all support fertility for both partners.
Certain supplements and herbs, including CoQ10, vitamin D, myo-inositol, or vitex/chasteberry, may also help. Speak with your healthcare provider about which options may be appropriate for you.
How Long Does It Take to Get Pregnant After IUD Removal?
Most people conceive within the first year of trying. According to the patient guide, approximately 85–90% of people under age 35 conceive within the first year. It’s normal for conception to take a few cycles.
When Should You Get Fertility Support?
You can reach out at any time if you’d like to discuss optimizing your fertility.
The guide recommends checking in if you haven’t conceived after six months of trying or if you have concerns about your fertility.
Fertility Assessments at Mint Reproductive
Mint offers in-house fertility assessments, including ultrasound and bloodwork, to evaluate:
- Ovarian reserve
- Cycle health
- Uterine anatomy
A fertility assessment can be a useful next step if you’re starting to try to conceive or simply want a better understanding of your fertility before you begin.
Questions About IUD Removal or Your Next Steps?
If you have questions about IUD removal, switching birth control methods, or preparing for pregnancy, the Mint Reproductive team can help you determine the next step that’s right for you.
Book your appointment online or reach out to learn more.
This information is intended as general guidance and does not replace individualized medical advice from your healthcare provider.
