Does the IUD Hurt When They Put It In?
Medically reviewed by Linda Girgis | MD, Girgis Family Medicine on August 21st, 2026.
IUD insertion typically causes moderate pain for most women, lasting 1-2 minutes during the procedure. Studies show that 70-80% of women experience cramping similar to severe menstrual cramps when the cervix is dilated and the device is placed. Pain levels vary significantly based on factors like previous childbirth, cervical anatomy, and individual pain tolerance. Women who have given birth vaginally generally report less discomfort than those who haven't. Healthcare providers can offer pain management options including local anesthetic, ibuprofen taken beforehand, or cervical numbing agents. The intense cramping usually subsides within minutes of completion, though some women experience mild cramping for hours afterward.
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