Finally, Planned Parenthood will offer sedation for IUD insertions and removals

If you’ve ever had an IUD, you already know how painful it is to have it inserted or removed. The fact that IUDs have been widely used since the 1950 and the only pain management doctors have offered women for those appointments has been over-the-counter painkillers absolutely boggles the mind. But finally, it seems that’s beginning to change. Planned Parenthood just announced that some of its locations will begin offering sedation for IUD insertions and removals, and women everyone share one common sentiment: It’s about damn time.

IUDs are one of the most effective forms of birth control on the market, and the process of getting one is extremely quick. But because it’s so painful and invasive, it can be extremely traumatizing, particularly for anyone who’s experienced sexual or medical trauma. For that reason, many women choose less effective forms of birth control, simply to avoid the process of having an IUD put in place, which should simply not be the case.

“Accessing sexual and reproductive health care shouldn’t invoke fear, and getting an IUD, cervical cancer screening, or a vasectomy shouldn’t feel traumatizing,” Dr. Colleen McNicholas, chief medical officer at Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, said in a statement. “Our patients and patients across the country are raising awareness about their negative experiences, specifically with the IUD insertion process — and are asking for better pain management options. We listened to their needs and are pleased to now offer sedation for our patients who prefer it — one of the few providers offering this care routinely in the outpatient setting.”

Sedation will only be available at some Planned Parenthood locations. It will be offered in the form of intravenous (IV) sedation, a form of pain management often offered as an alternative to  general anesthesia that can be used for minor surgical procedures. IV sedation can help patients feel more relaxed, drowsy, or fall asleep without being “put under” like they would with general anesthesia.

“Sexual and reproductive health care services can make patients feel vulnerable, anxious, and fearful, and in some cases, resurrect prior negative or traumatic experiences,” McNicholas said. “Truly centering patients requires a trauma-informed approach to care. We’re offering sedation to give patients a greater sense of power and control over their bodies and their care. As always, we’ll do everything we can to ensure our patients get the quality, affirming, affordable health care they want and need.”