IUD Removal

At some point, you must have your IUD removed. IUDs do not dissolve and cannot stay in your uterus indefinitely. The PARAGUARD IUD should be removed after 10 years, and the Mirena after 5 years.

The IUD removal procedure is often easier, less painful, and quicker than your IUD insertion.

Reasons to Remove your IUD:

• IUD causing discomfort
• More vaginal infections than usual
• Irregular bleeding
• Previous ectopic pregnancy
• Wanting to get pregnant
• Fear of early abortion if pregnancy occurs
• Adverse side effects such as ovarian cysts, back pain, headache/migraine, nervousness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, bloating, breast tenderness or pain, weight gain, changes in hair growth, acne, depression, changes in mood, loss of interest in sex, itching or skin rash, and puffiness in the face, hands, ankles, or feet.
• Your IUD has expired and needs to be replaced. The PARAGUARD IUD should be removed after 10 years, and the Mirena after 5 years.

Nexplanon Removal

Nexplanon removal is performed in a manner similar to the insertion, using a topical anesthetic to numb the skin before a small incision is made to retrieve the implant. Nexplanon should be removed after 3 years.

The inner arm may be a little tender or bruised after the removal, but the discomfort should ease fairly quickly.

Reasons to remove your Nexplanon implant:

• Nexplanon causing increased or continued discomfort
• Irregular bleeding
• Wanting to get pregnant
• Adverse side effects such as irritation at the site where the device was implanted, weight gain, dizziness, breast tenderness, headaches, acne, hair loss, and vaginal irritation.
• Your Nexplanon has expired. Nexplanon should be removed after 3 years.