Welcome to the IUD Clinic at Next Practice Prahran
At Next Practice Prahran, we believe in making healthcare more accessible, affordable, and stress-free for everyone - and that includes contraception!
Our IUD clinics, run by Dr. Liam Egan, Dr. Sol Adibson, Dr. Nisha Iyer (joining the IUD team soon!), and our compassionate nurses Amelia, Sheri, and Kiki, offer the latest in IUD insertion procedures with a focus on expert care. Each member of our team has been trained by leaders in the field, and they are committed to making the IUD insertion process as comfortable and reassuring as possible for every patient.
We understand that the thought of an IUD procedure can feel a little overwhelming, but we’re here to ensure it’s as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you're just exploring your contraception options or already certain that an IUD is the right choice for you, our caring team is ready to support you every step of the way.
Why Choose an IUD?
An IUD is a highly effective, long-term contraceptive option. It’s a small T-shaped device made of plastic that, depending on the type, either releases hormones or uses copper to prevent pregnancy. With proper care, it can offer birth control for up to 8 years.
What to Expect
Your First Visit:
Before your IUD insertion, you'll need an initial consultation to:
- Discuss your contraceptive options.
- Understand the pros, cons, risks, and benefits of IUDs.
- Have a health check to ensure the IUD is the right choice for you.
- Schedule the procedure at the appropriate time in your menstrual cycle for minimal discomfort and risk.
The Day of Your Procedure:
- Pain Relief: During your pre-consult, your doctor will discuss the best pain relief for you to take before the procedure.
- Eat & Drink: Have a light meal to avoid feeling faint.
- Bring Your IUD: Ensure you have your Mirena, Kyleena, or Copper IUD with you on the day.
- Urine Sample: You may be asked to provide a urine sample before your procedure.
During the procedure, much like a cervical screening test, a speculum is inserted to visualise the cervix. A local anesthetic is used, and your doctor will gently place the IUD into the uterus. The procedure typically takes 10-15 minutes, but we reserve 30-45 minutes for the appointment, allowing for extra time to answer your questions and ensure you feel comfortable.
After Your IUD Insertion:
- Rest: Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. A medical certificate can be provided if needed.
- Pain Relief: You may experience cramping and spotting for a few hours to a few days. Simple painkillers can help.
- Checking Strings: It’s important to check the IUD strings about a week after insertion and after each period.
Note: The Copper IUD is effective immediately, but if you're using a hormonal IUD, you'll need to use backup contraception for the first week.
Preparing for Your Appointment
To make your IUD insertion experience as smooth as possible:
- Confirm you’re not pregnant: The IUD cannot be inserted if there’s a chance of pregnancy.
- Use effective contraception in the weeks leading up to the procedure to prevent unintended pregnancy.
- Call our nurses: If you have any questions, we’re here to help!
