What to Expect
Planned Parenthood has been a trusted source of healthcare for more than 100 years.
Our clinicians have an average of 25 years of healthcare experience. They can answer all of your questions, and find the best birth control fit for your needs.
Before Your Appointment (at home)
In the time leading up to your appointment for an IUD or birth control implant:
- Keep using your current birth control
- Do not have unprotected sex
- Eat and drink lots of water on the day of your appointment
- Take ibuprofen about an hour before you come in for your appointment
During Your Appointment
Once you’ve checked in for your appointment:
- We might ask you to pee in a cup for a pregnancy test
- You will get an STI test for chlamydia and gonorrhea
- We will take your blood pressure and other vital signs
- We will talk with you about the birth control method you’ve chosen
- We will get your permission for the procedure
- You will learn about the possible side effects of your birth control
Putting in Your IUD
- It starts with a physical exam
- Then the healthcare provider puts the IUD inside your uterus
- You might feel some cramping when the healthcare provider puts in the IUD
- The whole procedure often takes less than 10 minutes
Putting in Your Birth Control Implant
- The healthcare provider will numb your arm so it doesn’t hurt
- Next, the healthcare provider will put the tiny implant just under the skin of your upper arm
- It takes about 15 seconds to put the implant in your arm
When You Go Home
If you have an IUD:
- You might have cramps or a backache for a few days or weeks
- Mirena IUD – you may have spotting (light bleeding) for the first 3-6 months
- ParaGard IUD – you may have heavier, more crampy periods
If you have an implant:
- You might feel nothing
- Or your arm might feel sore where the implant was put in