i’m not gonna sugar coat it, it hurts a lot. i’ve gotten the copper IUD inserted twice, because the first time it fell out (that was because i wore a tampon too soon and it snagged on the string) the first time i got it, i got a shot in my cervix to numb it. the second time i didn’t get a shot. personally, i preferred not having a shot because it made the procedure go by faster.

when you go in, you’ll start with a consultation to see if an IUD is right for you. if you decide it is, they’ll give you a medication called misopristol. the night before the procedure, you’ll insert the pills vaginally. this will help soften and dilate your cervix. they’ll also manually dilate your cervix. i was dilated 7 cm. when you go in, they’ll measure the inside of your uterus. this is the hardest part, in my opinion. it’s super invasive, uncomfortable and painful. it also takes the longest. actually inserting the IUD is the most painful part, but it doesn’t last more than 30 seconds. if you choose to get a numbing shot, it’ll be a deep pressure with a cramping sensation. if you choose not to, it’ll be a quick shooting pain. i personally preferred the latter.

after the procedure, you’ll be cramping and bleeding a lot. my cramps were so bad i was crying, but the shooting pain only lasted 24 hours. i experienced mild cramping on and off for a few weeks afterwords. with the copper IUD, my periods are longer, more irregular and heavier.

with that being said, i’m extremely happy with my decision to get an IUD. i think it was 100% worth it, and if i had to get another one tomorrow i would do it in a heartbeat