IUD in the Bronx — What to Expect Before, During & After Insertion

If you're looking for a reliable, long-term birth control option in the Bronx, an IUD may be one of the best choices available. At Dr. Emily Women's Health Center, IUD insertion and removal are performed by board-certified OB/GYN physicians with over 30 years of experience — never a PA or nurse practitioner. We accept Medicaid from all five NYC boroughs and most major insurance plans.

If you've been wondering what the process actually involves, this guide walks you through everything — before your appointment, during the procedure itself, and what to expect in the days and weeks that follow.

What Is an IUD?

An IUD (intrauterine device) is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is one of the most effective forms of birth control available — over 99% effective — and it works for years without any daily effort on your part.

There are two main types:

• Hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla) — release a small amount of progestin. They typically make periods lighter or stop them altogether. Effective for 3 to 8 years depending on the brand.
• Copper IUD (ParaGard) — hormone-free, uses copper to prevent pregnancy. Periods may be heavier at first. Effective for up to 10 to 12 years. Also works as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex.

During your appointment at Dr. Emily Women's Health Center, your physician will review your medical history and help you choose the right IUD for your body and your goals.

Before Your IUD Appointment

A little preparation goes a long way toward making your insertion appointment comfortable and straightforward.

Take ibuprofen beforehand

We recommend taking 600–800 mg of ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) 30 to 60 minutes before your appointment. This helps reduce cramping during and after the procedure. If you have a sensitivity to ibuprofen or cannot take it, let us know when you call — we can discuss alternatives.

Timing your appointment

An IUD can be inserted at any point in your menstrual cycle. Some physicians prefer to insert during or shortly after your period, when the cervix is naturally slightly more open, but this is not required. We offer same-day appointments, so you don't have to plan around your cycle if you don't want to.

What to bring and plan for

• Bring your insurance card or Medicaid information
• Wear comfortable, loose clothing
• Consider having someone drive you home, as some patients feel lightheaded or crampy afterward
• Bring a pad — spotting after insertion is normal
• Plan for the appointment to take about 30 minutes total, though the insertion itself takes only 1 to 5 minutes

Who should not get an IUD

An IUD is not appropriate for everyone. You should let your physician know if you have an active pelvic infection or STI, unexplained vaginal bleeding, certain uterine abnormalities, or if you are pregnant. Your physician will review your complete medical history before proceeding.

During the IUD Insertion

The actual insertion takes only 1 to 5 minutes. Here is what happens, step by step:

1. Pregnancy test. Your physician will confirm you are not pregnant before proceeding.
2. Pelvic exam. Your physician will examine the size, position, and orientation of your uterus to ensure safe placement.
3. Speculum insertion. A speculum is gently inserted to open the vaginal walls and allow your physician to view the cervix. You may feel pressure.
4. Cervix cleaning. The cervix is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
5. Uterine measurement. A small instrument called a sound is used to measure the depth of your uterus to ensure proper placement.
6. IUD placement. The IUD is guided through the cervical opening into the uterus using a thin applicator tube. You may feel cramping or pressure at this moment — this is the most intense part of the procedure and typically lasts only a few seconds.
7. String trimming. The IUD strings are trimmed so they rest just inside the vagina. You may or may not be able to feel them.
8. You will have a few minutes to rest on the table before getting up. If you feel dizzy or faint, take your time — this is common and temporary.

Every patient's experience is different. Some feel minimal discomfort; others experience significant cramping. Either response is normal. Your physician will talk with you throughout the procedure.

After Your IUD Insertion

The first 24 hours

Cramping and spotting are normal and expected. Take ibuprofen as needed and use a heating pad for comfort. For the first 24 hours, avoid baths, swimming, tampons, menstrual cups, and sexual intercourse. A pad is the best option for spotting.

The first few months

Your body needs time to adjust. Here is what to expect:

• Hormonal IUD: Irregular spotting is common for the first 3 to 6 months. Over time, periods typically become lighter — and may stop altogether after 1 to 2 years.
• Copper IUD: Periods may be heavier and cramps more intense, especially in the first few months. This usually improves but may persist for as long as you have the IUD.
• Hormonal IUD effectiveness: Use a backup contraceptive method for the first 7 days after insertion. The copper IUD is effective immediately.

Checking your strings

After your first period, check that you can feel the IUD strings at the top of your vaginal canal. If the strings feel longer or shorter than usual, or if you cannot feel them at all, contact us. It is rare for an IUD to shift or expel, but it is important to check.

Your follow-up appointment

Schedule a follow-up visit 4 to 6 weeks after insertion. Your physician will confirm the IUD is correctly positioned and answer any questions about how your body is adjusting. After that, IUD placement is checked at your regular annual gynecological exam — no additional appointments needed unless you have concerns.

When to Call Us Right Away

Contact Dr. Emily Women's Health Center at 718-585-1010 immediately if you experience any of the following after IUD insertion:

• Fever or chills
• Heavy bleeding that soaks more than one pad per hour
• Severe or worsening pelvic pain
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Inability to feel your strings, or strings that feel significantly longer or shorter
• Symptoms of pregnancy

These symptoms are uncommon but require prompt attention. Your care does not end when you leave our office.

IUD Removal — When You're Ready

IUD removal is quick and straightforward. Your physician gently pulls the strings, the IUD arms fold down, and the device slides out. Most patients feel a brief cramp, and the whole process takes less than a minute.

Fertility returns immediately after removal. You can have a new IUD inserted at the same appointment if you wish to continue long-term contraception.

Does Medicaid or Insurance Cover IUD Insertion in the Bronx?

Yes — in most cases, IUD insertion is fully covered. Dr. Emily Women's Health Center accepts Medicaid from all five NYC boroughs (Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island) and most major insurance plans including Aetna, Cigna, EmblemHealth, HealthFirst, Oxford, and United Healthcare.

We do not accept Westchester County Medicaid. Not sure about your coverage? Call 718-585-1010 or email billing@dremily.net and we will verify your insurance before your appointment at no charge.

Why Choose Dr. Emily Women's Health Center for IUD Insertion in the Bronx?

• Board-certified OB/GYN physicians only — Dr. Brian E. Park and Dr. Vivian Roston each have over 30 years of clinical experience
• Same-day appointments available — no long waits
• Open Saturdays 8 AM – 3 PM
• AAAASF-accredited surgical facility — meeting national safety standards since 2004
• 1 block from the 6 train at East 149th Street — easy to reach from all 5 boroughs
• Rated 4.6 stars on Google with over 800 patient reviews

Schedule Your IUD Appointment Today

Call or text 718-585-1010 to schedule your IUD consultation or insertion. Same-day and Saturday appointments are available. You can also request an appointment at dremily.net. We are located at 642 Southern Blvd, Bronx NY 10455 — one block from the 6 train at East 149th Street.

Have questions before you book? Call us. Our team is here to walk you through your options, verify your insurance, and make sure you feel completely informed and comfortable before your visit.