Women who rely on intrauterine devices (IUDs) for birth control now have reason to rejoice. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released updated guidelines that recommend new pain management strategies for IUD insertion. This new guidance comes after years of complaints from women about severe cramping and pain during the procedure.
MORE: Teen mental health is improving, but there is still progress to be made, CDC report shows
The CDC’s latest guidelines, published this week, advocate for the use of medication to alleviate pain during IUD placement, as well as suggest treatments for irregular bleeding that may occur afterward. This marks a significant shift from the previous guidelines issued in 2016, which offered limited advice on pain management, with physicians often only recommending ibuprofen.
After gathering public feedback and reviewing new medical evidence, the CDC now recommends the use of lidocaine, a local anesthetic available as a cream, spray, or gel, to reduce patient pain during IUD insertion. The agency also provides a comprehensive list of medications to address irregular bleeding while the IUD is in place.
The updated guidelines emphasize patient education, stating that all individuals should receive counseling on potential pain during placement, as well as the risks, benefits, and alternatives for pain management. A personalized plan should be developed based on patient preferences.
While lidocaine was previously recommended by the CDC only as an injection near the cervix, the new guidelines now include topical alternatives to provide patients with more options for pain relief. Misoprostol, another medication that may aid in IUD insertion, is mentioned in both the 2016 and 2024 guidelines, though not recommended for routine use.
In addition to pain management, the updated guidelines offer a variety of treatment options for physicians to consider if patients express concerns about irregular bleeding. These options include oral contraceptives containing estrogen, tamoxifen, and antifibrinolytic agents, as well as over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.
As highlighted in a recent report by the Washington Post, women have been increasingly vocal about their painful experiences with IUD insertion, with social media platforms like TikTok serving as a platform for sharing firsthand accounts. Videos depicting the intense pain experienced during the procedure have shed light on the need for improved pain management strategies.
It’s clear that these updated guidelines from the CDC are a step in the right direction for enhancing the patient experience during IUD placement. By prioritizing pain management and providing a range of treatment options, healthcare providers can better support individuals seeking this popular form of birth control.
Follow Kristin & PhillyVoice on Twitter: @kristin_hunt | @thePhillyVoice
Like us on Facebook: PhillyVoice
Have a news tip? Let us know.