IUD Insertion and Removal in Maryland

Intrauterine Devices

At Waldorf Women’s Care, we provide multiple contraception methods, one of which is intrauterine devices. An intrauterine device (IUD) is a form of long-term birth control for women. A small plastic T-shaped device is inserted into the uterus and can prevent pregnancy for 3 to 10 years depending on the type of IUD. An IUD is a highly effective form of birth control but does not prevent sexually transmitted infections.

If you are considering which contraception method is best for you and are considering an IUD, contact Waldorf Women’s Health to discuss the benefits and risk associated with an IUD. Please call to schedule a consultation at our gynecology offices in White Plains, Arlington, and Brandywine.

Insertion and Removal of an IUD

An IUD is inserted by a gynecologist at Waldorf Women’s Hospital in the office and will only take a few minutes. During the procedure, you may experience side effects like discomfort, cramping, or dizziness. We may recommend an over-the-counter painkiller before the procedure, or use a local anesthetic during the procedure to ease the pain. The T-shaped IUD is left in the uterus, leaving 2 small strings outside the cervix for removal.

A follow up appointment may be scheduled after the procedure to be sure the IUD is still in place. A gynecologist at Waldorf Women’s Care will show you how to check that the IUD is still in the correct position and tell you how often you should check the placement.

Your IUD will be removed when it has reached its expiration date, if you are experiencing a medical problem, or if you plan to become pregnant. It can be removed during a short procedure at the Waldorf Women’s Care office. Your gynecologist will gently pull on the IUDs strings to pull the IUD through the cervix and out of the vagina.

Copper IUD

A copper IUD prevents fertilization by making the uterus and fallopian tubes produce fluid containing copper that is toxic to sperm.

Paragard®

Paragard is the only copper IUD, and it can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. It works by interfering with sperm movement, egg fertilization, and may prevent implantation. Paragard is hormone free and can be used whether or not you have had a child.

Learn more about Paragard

Hormonal IUDs

A hormonal IUD prevents fertilization by making the mucus in the cervix thick and sticky so sperm can’t get through to the uterus, as well as keeping the lining of the uterus too thin for a fertilized egg to implant.

Mirena®

Mirena is a hormonal IUD that prevents pregnancy for up to 5 years and can also treat heavy periods. It inhibits sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg, thins the uterine lining, and thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. Mirena is recommended for women who have had at least 1 child.

Learn more about Mirena

Skyla®

Skyla is a hormonal IUD made by the same company as Mirena, but this IUD is smaller. It may be less likely to be expelled in women who have never had a baby because of its smaller size. Skyla can be used for up to 3 years to prevent pregnancy.

Learn more about Skyla

Kyleena™

Kyleena is a hormonal IUD that can prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years. Kyleena releases the lowest dose of hormones for the longest amount of time, compared to other IUDs. It can be used by women whether they have given birth or not.

Learn more about Kyleena

Liletta®

Liletta is a hormonal IUD that is effective in preventing pregnancy for up to 3 years and women can use it regardless of if they have given birth.

Learn more about Liletta


Schedule an Appointment for an IUD Placement at Waldorf Women’s Care

To learn more about your birth control options, including IUDs, meet with our gynecology providers at Waldorf Women’s Care. To schedule an appointment for contraceptive counseling, call our gynecology office at (240) 252-2140 or request an appointment online.

Request an Appointment