Abstract
OBJECTIVE(S): The experience of pain during intrauterine insertion can be highly variable, ranging from none to severe. The objective of this study was to explore the experience of intrauterine device (IUD) insertion from the perspective of contraceptive users. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a qualitative study using individual semi-structured Zoom interviews with women living in Australia. We recruited participants from a larger study exploring the information needs of contraceptive users. We audio-recorded and transcribed interviews and thematically analyzed the data. RESULTS: Eighteen women described their experiences of IUD insertion. Although most participants described mild to moderate pain, some described severe pain exceeding their expectations and reported being unprepared for this experience. In some cases, these experiences had unexpected short and long-term consequences such as impacts on intimate relationships and fear of other gynecological procedures. CONCLUSION: Intrauterine device users should be informed of the range of pain experiences that may occur during insertion, including the risk of a vasovagal reaction, and all pain management options available to them. Experiences of pain during insertion did not appear to deter contraceptive users' continued IUD use or planned future use.