Great video. Thank you for sharing. I got my IUD last week and was trying to find the strings and was panicking they weren’t there. This eased my concern
So glad to hear it was helpful! Thanks for watching!
-Dr. Dervaitis
Thank you so much for this video!!!!❤
Thank you for this video! New to having the IUD and this was so helpful 💕
Hi xtina baaae- sorry not to to respond earlier, just seeing this comment now.
So excited to hear that your IUD insertion was not painful!! Thank you so much for sharing your experience with me and my channel viewers!
👍😊
All the best,
-Dr. D
Thank you so much for this video!
I don’t think I’ve ever commented on a video before but I had to for this! I got my Kyleena fitted in November and felt the strings once a few weeks after but hadn’t managed to feel them again, I was really worried about it & had it nagging on my mind.
I followed your steps today and I can now feel the strings & I’m really reassured. Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video, have a great day 😊
Thank u so much for posting this! Very helpful and informative! I feel much better and way more educated about this! Thank you so much!
Wow this gives me so much relief when I can’t find them…. Most times I give it time without panicking and check again in a bit!
Thank you ! This helped a lot I had trouble the first time checking for my string but after watching this video I was able to find it .. thank you !!
Was you able to notice/feel them easy? I had mine fitted yesterday gone to check and cant seem to feel anything 😕 also iv got a bit of bleeding and pain still so might need to wait till after? X
Thank you! I was struggling, but this made it super easy! The next time I tried after watching I found them no problem! Than you for the visuals!
I got my iud today and I’m so worried it’ll move out of place 😅 I’ll most likely go back to my GP to get it checked. This video really helped me though ❤️
Thanks so much for this video. I’ve had Mirena for 5 months, no period and no cramps. Suddenly as of one week ago I have cramps and a light period. Tried to check my strings and couldn’t find anything so going into the doctors.
I had my Mariena placed 8 weeks postpartum and I can’t feel my strings yet , but my cycles are normal no extra bleeding no cramping. I am going to get my strings checked for reassurance. Thanks for this video
Hi Dr D. This is a non-IUD related question, but how many pairs of glasses do you have, and are they prescription glasses? Just asking cause I'm a huge fan of them and I wish I have the confidence to rock them like you do! Huge fan of this channel too and I truly appreciate you taking the time to do this and help so many women around the world. Cheers!
Lol! Thanks for watching and for making me smile today! I have around a dozen pairs of glasses, and yes they are prescription (fortunately my prescription hasn’t changed in over a decade and so it equates to about a pair a year...) Some women are into shoes, or purses, or jewelry... for me, my obsession is glasses! 🤓 (and also helping to prevent unplanned pregnancy! 😊)
All the best,
Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 no wonder! What an amazing collection you have ❤️...
Thank you thank you thank you... so so sooooo much. You have cured my anxiety from googling all of my symptoms .
Thank you for this video! I am considering getting my strings cut short, since my boyfriend is feeling pain during sex (the strings have been cut slightly shorter once), but I have been worrying about how the removal works "without" strings, and haven't been able to find much material about it. Your videos have helped calming me down :) Thank you for these very informative videos!
BF sounds like a baby suck. Tell him an unwanted kid would hurt more. 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Just this past month I had to do a Hysteroscopy under anesthesia to remove the foreign object because my strings were not visible. Tried to remove in the clinic but very painful
Thank you so much Dr. Your video is so informative and helpful. God bless
Hi Dr. Dervaitis, first I would like to thank you for creating all of these helpful and educational videos! I just got an IUD yesterday and have only been able to feel one of the strings. Do you think I should be concerned that the IUD is out of place? Is this a common issue? I’m seeing my doctor on Monday, but would appreciate your feedback. Thanks!
The strings are so fine (and adherent to one another) that they usually feel like one string and not two.
If you have any reason to be concerned that your IUD may not be in proper position, talk to your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Thank you for your reply! I went to my doctor today and she confirmed that the two strings were just stuck together.
Thank you for this very educational video! 😊 I have had my IUD for 9 years and wanted to make sure it's still in position. Your video helped me 😊
Do you have the copper? Did your periods got better? And you let your partner finish his business in there or do you use another contraception?
@@rachelflores7631 I had the copper paraguard for 10 years No issues. I recently got it out and got the mirena instead. Yes it's a free-for-all to go in there 😅 And it's worked for me for 10 years 😅
I can't really tell you if my periods got better or worse because they've always been horrible.
thank you so much😢this helped me SO much and calmed me down. i appreciate you a lot
Thank you for this, just got my IUD (kyleena) inserted almost exactly a week ago and thought it fell out seeing how I saw a string like substance in the toilet. I carefully felt around and felt the strings (nothing else) and was relieved and assumed it was simply my hair that fell in the toilet. Thank you for showing me the flexibility, how thin, and what to feel for as far as strings go. They are quite thin, almost like hair but with gentle slow motion you should be able to feel it ive learned
My doctor never told me how to feel for them so I hope I can learn to do it to give me peace of mine.
Incredibly Helpful!!
Wow thank you so much ❤️🙏
Omg i truly appreciate you, this was so helpful. Thank you, thank you so much. I was losing my mind
I just got mine fitted two days a go and I tried checking for the string and I don’t think I can feel it.... 🤷🏽♀️
Ahlam Said had the same thought just swish your fingers in there and you should find it😂
Am due to get mine out after 5 years and I can't find the string.. Will the doctors be able to get it out?
I was never told to check my string now I might be pregnant smh
Thanks doctor for your video. I could find my strings after 3rd time trying. I had to use my middle figner and has to go deep inside. Just touch around around then finally I can feel the bottom of the strings 😅
I got Skyla a few years ago and insertion was very quick & pain was manageable, like a 4. First doc said " everything you have is tiny, which is why it may hurt along with the fact that you've never had kids."
Went to a new doc to have it taken out, pain was a 6. She talked me into getting Kyleena (I was unsure because Skyla removal was so painful).. I allowed Kyleena to be inserted by this new doc & it was excruciating, even with the meds she gave me for opening the cervix. I wanted her to stop but she said "I'm almost done, promise. " .. but she wasn't. She took much longer to insert than my prev doc. I've never experienced that level of pain in my life and now I have anxiety about getting this taken out. Just listening to YT vids about IUD makes me cry and shake/anxiety. Do IUDs have to be removed? Can I request being put to sleep when removal time comes?
I am so afraid of the gynecologist now that I haven't been in a few years.
I’m sorry to hear that your second experience was so different from your first insertion. Discomfort at IUD insertion can vary for a number of reasons, and inserter experience can make a difference. IUD removal is typically much less uncomfortable than insertion and general anesthesia for removal is not the standard of care. If you are still concerned and want to discuss options, talk to your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hey ladies, I just had a copper iud inserted today and just wanted to let you know it was painful but tolerable and only lasted a few seconds. Just wanted to reassure anyone who is getting one.
Well I can assure you that was not my experience. I’m glad yours went well but unfortunately not for me. So please ask questions regarding taking pain meds before hand.
On week 3 having horrible cramps. Think its period happing and there is no bleeding but holy god I am having bad cramps. Anyone else?
Omg thank you so much for this video I just got mine and I was like I don’t feel them should I be calling the doctor and be all over the place but I was surcharging for something that is ever reliable to know okay everything’s fine this is sooooo help full
3 yrz now , last week was on my periods since there i cant feel my it
You used the hormonal IUD as an example for how a change in menstrual effects (lighter flow and cramping) could be an indicator of a misplaced or partial expelled IUD. Is the same true for copper IUDs? Would a noticeable decrease in flow and decrease of cramping indicate a misplaced copper IUD? TY!
Theoretically, yes, that’s possible. Bottom line, if there is a significant change in your menstrual bleeding/ cramping, check your IUD strings (or see your doctor for a check). Many patients get into the habit of periodically checking their IUD strings as a habit, just to be safe.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Your videos are a lifesaver! Question for you: my IUD is displaced, are there any exercises I can do to help it return to normal? Thankyou!
No- exercise does not affect the position of the IUD. See your doctor if you’re concerned about the position of your IUD.
Glad you found the videos helpful!
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi! I got my Paragard IUD inserted on the 15th of November. Im still feeling some light cramps and experiencing period-like bleeding. (Next part might be TMI) This morning I went to the bathroom, and it was obviously a little bloody. I noticed something at the bottom of the toilet that could've just been a blood clot, but I have now made myself paranoid that my IUD is expelled. I can't feel the strings myself due to acrylic nails and I don't have a follow up scheduled with planned parenthood. I don't want to do anything with my partner just to find out my IUD isn't even there anymore. Should I be worried and should I go in for a check up this soon? Or does it sound like i'm just worrying too much? Thank you!
Hi Kylie-
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet (since I’m not your physician and don’t have the opportunity to examine you.) Based on the information provided, the best I can say is that you should book a follow up appointment appointment with your doctor, and use back up contraception in the interim. While clots (sometimes large ones...) can happen after IUD insertion, there is no possible way for me to know (without examining you) whether or not your IUD was expelled.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hey did you get this sorted? I have acrylics on and had mine fitted yesterday iv had a little feel and not able to feel anything 🤔 x
Hi Dr Kristina, I recently got my iud a few weeks ago and found your videos as a guide for a first timer. They’ve been really helpful! However, I do have a concern and hope you could advise if it’s normal. According to my calendar I should be having my period now, this’d my first period since iud. The consistency is different from how it usually is, which is more jelly-like/mucousy, now it’s less and more concentrated blood. I can also only find one string atm. Should this call for an actual check up?
Hi Stephanie-
I’d recommend that you watch my video #7) “Is This Bleeding Normal? What to Expect With Your Bleeding After an IUD Insertion”. It can be normal to see a change in the amount, colour, and consistency of your menstrual blood after an IUD insertion. It is reassuring that you are still able to feel one IUD string. Based on the information you’ve given, unless you develop any new concerning symptoms, I don’t think you need to make any extra appointment with your doctor. If something new is happening that concerns you, it’s always a good idea to get advice from your own doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Dr. Kristina Dervaitis , thanks so much for the tip! Definitely feel more at ease now. You’ve been really helpful, appreciate the content you put out and attention you give to your followers and patients.
Hello! I got my IUD 3 days ago & I cannot seem to find my strings with my finger. I have an appointment for a string check in 6 weeks but since I can’t feel it should I make the appointment sooner?
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. If you are concerned about the position of your IUD, see your doctor (and use back up contraception in the interim).
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi, I had my copper IUD fitted over a year ago. When I began feeling them back then I couldn't find the strings and when I went for my checkup the nurse said that they have been cut short so not to panic if I can't feel them. I still check them regularly just to be sure but I can barely feel them. However, every single month when I get my period I can feel them almost irritating and itching against my sides and they are very low down and I can feel them just by using half a finger. After my period has ended, they go back up and I don't have any problems with them until the next month when it happens again. I only feel the threads and nothing else hard.
I read something online that it could be because the cervix drops slightly during menstruation. Just wondering if it is normal for these things to happen?
Hello-
It’s possible for the uterus (and cervix) to be physically lower during menstruation when it is engorged with blood and heavier. (So your theory on what might be happening may be correct). However, bottom line- if you have any concerns about whether your IUD is in proper position, I’d recommend that you see your doctor. As an aside, because menstrual bleeding (and uterine engorgement) is less with the hormonal IUD, if this issue is bothering you, you could consider switching to the hormonal IUD.
-Dr. Dervaitis
A month?? My gyno wouldn't see me till three months after I got mine inserted. She also didn't tell me any after care tips so my recovery from insertion was absolutely horrible.
How long should my strings feel? I can definitely feel them and had a partial expulsion before (this is my second time trying) I'm worried because I really want this to work. The second insertion went really well but I was cramping pretty bad after two days.
Hi Ingrid-
There is some variation between individual health care practitioners, but most would tend to cut the strings about 2-3 cm from the outer limit of the cervix (a couple of inches at most). If you have any concern, you should get checked out by your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hello.
I had my IUD paragard placed on friday 10/18/19 . And she didn’t give me any other appointment to check the string. She just told me to be checking it by myself. So is it normal ?? And am not able to find the string today on my menstruations day i tried but i couldn’t . Did i have to make a month appointment?
Thank you
Hi-
Every health care provider has different practices, and not every provider requires their patients to have a check up after the IUD insertion (but a post insertion check up has been my own personal practice). Similarly, some doctors routinely order ultrasounds after an insertion (in place of, or in addition to, the check up visit... I personally only order an ultrasound in certain situations).
If you are unable to feel your IUD strings on your own, I’d recommend that you contact your doctor for further advice and to schedule a check up.
-Dr. D
For some people may be important the fact, that IUD's can negatively affect embryos implantation.
I've had mine for over a year and I use to be able to feel them, now I experience pain and no longer can feel the strings
Hi Meranda-
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice advice over the internet. However, given the situation you describe, I’d recommend that you see your doctor (and use back up contraception in the interim).
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi Meranda-
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice advice over the internet. However, given the situation you describe, I’d recommend that you see your doctor (and use back up contraception in the interim).
-Dr. Dervaitis
I have a copper IUD- the paragard. I’ve had it for almost 4 years now and I got an MRI this week and something feels off. The people in radiology said the MRI shouldn’t have moved or anything around but it’s been feeling achey and weird since I got the MRI! I’m having a hard time finding the strings so I’ll likely book an appointment to be seen, but I’m wondering how likely is it that an MRI would affect the position of a copper IUD?
It is safe to have an MRI with both the copper and hormonal IUD. If you are concerned about the position of your IUD, see your doctor (and use back up contraception in the interim).
-Dr. Dervaitis
good pm doc this is janice .. I'm using iud in almost 3years but I never visit my doctor yet... and now I'm afraid I'm waiting for your advice thank you so much...
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. I’d refer you back to the video for information on how to check your IUD strings. If you have concerns about your IUD, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
If you touch the string if you saw it out is it dangerous do I have to check to my OB?
Had a bad time on my first experience with IUD, which was a few months ago. My IUD was out of place & I got it removed then replaced. Going to see how it goes this time around. I hope it works out, I think this is an effective form of birth control. It does hurt going in though 😭😭
Yes I agree. Sounding and insertion for me was very painful. But I love this form of birth control cuz it’s low maintenance, lasts for years.
Hello did you remove your IUD by your own .? I feel so nervous because I touch the hard tube not the strings
Thank you doc for the information..i also have a question about iud..im new here in your channel..i want to know if iud's are ok to be recommend for the patient who have hypertension for birth control..thanks
Both the progesterone (hormonal) IUD and the copper IUD are acceptable options for patients with hypertension (patients with hypertension should avoid exposure to estrogen, which is present in the combined birth control pill but NOT in the hormonal IUD which is progesterone only).
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi Dr. Dervaitis,
I had my IUD placed Thursday 10/17/19 and the nurse midwife had mentioned that the arms did not fully extend only partially. The bleeding has lessened over time (and I am no longer on my period) but the cramps have been random, intense, and typically on the left or right side of my pelvis (not both at once) . I have the copper IUD and I know it can cause intense cramps; so I am not sure if I should be worried or not.
Hi-
The situation you describe is very unique and specific. Unfortunately, I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet since I am not your physician and don’t have all of the relevant information (nor the opportunity to examine you...) Given the description of your situation, really all I can say is that if you are concerned, you should see your doctor or midwife to have things checked out.
All the best,
Dr. D
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 I understand and will contact the office. I just get nervous about being the annoying patient that calls for things that are considered normal lol. Thanks you for the videos and information!!
@@SimplyMargie You shouldn't feel nervous. How are we supposed to know what's normal unless we're told that it is or isn't normal?
Hello iam first time user of i.u.d..inserted oct.1 2019..the doctor put it automatically because i got cs section..at 4 mos idont feel the string inside..then when my heavy period came..I check my vigina/cervix..Iam so shocked because I feel the string already then ithink 1inch longer..it is normal or my i.u.d bcome disalign? Looking forward to your answer Dr.😊 Thank you
Hi so I've had mine going on almost 5 years now.. So I'm in need of getting it removed soon.. Issue is I've never had my strings trimmed/cut but I can no longer find them? They don't stick out slightly and I don't feel them anymore.. How would my provider find the strings to remove my mirena?
Hi Kelsey-
Please watch video #13- IUD Removal, for the answers to your question!
-Dr. Dervaitis
I had an iud inserted three days ago and i was going to check the strings but my fingers just can’t reach my cervix. What can i do?
I can never find mine
Hi Doctor! I remember when pregnant with my son, my doctor was checking me and said my uterus was a little off to the side or at a slight angle. Does this effect how well an iud will work??
Not at all. Everyone’s anatomy is unique. Some have a uterus tilted forwards, others have a uterus tilted backwards... I use the analogy that it’s like brown eyes versus blue eyes (ie no effect on function or any other aspect of reproductive health, and certainly no effect on IUD function).
-Dr. Dervaitis
I have had my cooper IUD for nearly 5 years now, I can no longer feel my strings. Very worried 😢
Hello, thank you for making. This video was very informative! I just had a question regarding length of the strings during your period. My IUD is the Mona Lisa mini five and I’ve had it for two months. I’m on my second period with it, and the strings feel like a little bit longer than they did before my period and by longer I mean more accessible and easier to find. Is this just because the cervix lowers during menstruation? And does the string length feel different if you’re standing up or sitting down? Should I get a check to my doctor or just leave it alone?
The uterus may descend somewhat in the pelvis during menses (thus causing the strings to feel a bit lower during that time) however- if you have any concerns about the position of your IUD, see your doctor for a check (and consider back up contraception in the interim).
-Dr. Dervaitis
For people with medical anxiety, is checking the strings enough to be reassured that it’s staying in the right spot?
I’m wondering for peace of mind and reducing that anxiety, if it would make sense to have regular checks at the doctor’s office, or ultrasounds every 6 months/year - or if that is over the top and unnecessary?
I want to get the mirena soon, but want to make sure I have a plan so I don’t live with anxiety about it after reading too many “horror stories.”
Hi! I’ve been a subscriber for about 6 months (around the same time I got my iud). Update on my iud… well I had an ectopic pregnancy and removed my iud in surgery.
So sorry to hear this. Unfortunately there is a 2/1000 chance of pregnancy with an IUD (with risk of ectopic pregnancy). Hope that your recovery from surgery goes well.
Hi, I got my IUD inserted about a week ago. I forgot to ask when having intercourse will I feel the IUD? Should I be careful the first couple of times? Will it shift?
Hi Steph-
You won’t feel the IUD is there, and neither will your partner. There is no need to do anything differently when you are having sex, the IUD is designed not to shift with intercourse.
-Dr. Dervaitis
hi! isn't bad that even if my iud string fell off two years ago? and advised not to worry about if it will not be removed? i hope you can answer my question. thank you very much
Hello-
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet. But I would recommend that you watch video #13 about IUD removal.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I got mine in on Oct 2019 since then I'm bleeding all the time.
Thank you dr..
Mirena iud.. Last checking time . String inside utrus.. I scared about .
How it take out side...
Hi! I have two questions. I got a kyleena IUD on Tuesday.
1. I was told that I’d have spotting to heavy bleeding for the first 3-6 months but I haven’t had any bleeding. Is this normal? Should I expect to have random bleeding and spotting in the future?
2. This one is a bit lewd, but can the IUD be used as your only form of birth control? In other words, is it safe for the guy to ejaculate in you without the risk of pregnancy?
Hi Haven-
1. While some patients might have unpredictable bleeding in the first few months, it doesn’t always happen (so if you aren’t having spotting, it’s not necessarily a sign of anything worrisome...) You may or may not have some on and off bleeding in the next few weeks.
2. Generally speaking: the IUD may not work right away, depending on copper versus hormonal, and depending on when in your menstrual cycle the IUD was inserted. There is also a small chance of the IUD falling out (expulsion). To be on the safe side, I tell all of my patients to use back up contraception until they see me for their 1 month check up (when I check to make sure that the IUD is still in proper position) and after that, no other contraception is needed (but remember, it you’re with a new partner you always still need to use condoms to prevent sexually transmitted infections!!)
Hope this helps!
-Dr. Dervaitis
My 3 years for my IUD is next week, so I am going to get it removed.
I am torn on getting it replaced or going back to using the implant.
My partner swears he can feel the strings and sometimes has little scratches after and he’ll complain that he was getting “poked”
Is that possible?
My strings seem a bit thicker than the ones you showed
That’s what I want to ask to Dr. I felt the strings when I had intercourse with partner. I just worry if IUD is displaced and increase risk of pregnancy
IUD strings can be trimmed if you or your partner are bothered by them. Generally speaking, they should not be noticeable to you or your partner. Talk to your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
(See above reply) If you are concerned about your IUD strings and possible malpositioning, see your doctor (and use back up contraception until then).
-Dr. Dervaitis
My doctor only checked once after 3 weeks then never told me to check them.
In response to Shayne S-
If an IUD is in proper position, neither you (nor your partner) should be able to feel something hard or plastic-like (either during intercourse or with a finger...) If you are feeling something hard/firm/plastic it could be a sign of IUD expulsion or partial expulsion- in this situation I would recommend that you see your doctor as soon as possible (and use back up contraception in the interim). As I outline in the video, the IUD strings are very thin and soft and should not feel hard/firm.
-Dr. D
Hey dr I’m i bit concern on my IUD I got it inserted about three years ago but the last time I went they told me they didn’t see my strings on the ultrasound .
Hi-
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet (and based on the info provided I’m not quite sure I understand your situation). I think it’s best if you discuss this further with your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Dr. Kristina Dervaitis okay thank you but that’s exactly what they told me the last time I went to OB/GYN . The last thing we did was take a ultrasound to find my IUD they did find the IUD inserted but they just couldn’t find the strings. It’s going on about three years now.
I recently got my iud (about two and a half weeks ago) and after I finished my period (which started the week after getting it put in), I can now feel something kind of plastic-y ever so slightly sticking out of my cervix. I’m not entirely sure if it’s the actual iud that’s sticking out, or just the strings. My period was extremely painful, so I’m a bit concerned. Do you have any advice? Thank you in advance!
Hello-
One should not be able to feel anything plastic or hard at the cervix (the strings are very soft). This could be a sign of IUD expulsion. If a patient is feeling something hard/firm when they go to check their strings, I’d recommend that they use back up contraception, and see their doctor soon in order to check whether the IUD is in proper position.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Thanks Doc for making this video. I got mine inserted a month and a half ago and i bled for a whole month; Paragard it was . I went in to check for the strings after the bleeding stopped and i felt the strings just close to the vulva opening. should i be concerned, or that is how it should be?
It depends on how long the strings were cut at the time of insertion. Usually the strings would not be close to the vaginal/vulvar opening. If you are concerned about the position of your IUD, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hello, I have had an IUD for around 3 months; had two periods since (was on hormonal combined pill previous). This has been the first time I have checked the strings and I can only feel one, is that normally? Also, I’m worried I tugged too hard when I felt it, is it possible I moved it? Should I be worried?
It is not critical to feel two strings (as long as one string is palpable… sometimes the two strings are stuck together and difficult to distinguish). If you are concerned about your IUD position, see your doctor.
Hi, Doctor! Thanks for your videos, they helped me be informed about IUDs. I got my mirena inserted 2 weeks ago (had to do it twice ‘cause the first one expelled the day after due to heavy bleeding and big clots) and I’ve been so paranoid that the expulsion will happen again. My doctor says he cut my strings longer than usual because I have a deep pelvis (I’m not sure what that means or if that’s okay) and I check for the first time yesterday. I felt it immediately after just inserting my middle finger for about an inch into my vagina. Is this okay or normal? Is it not too long or is it not a sign that my iud has shifted downward? Another question is will there be a chance that my IUD might be tugged or pulled out during sexual activity because the strings are too long? Thanks so much!
For more information about IUD expulsion, please see video #24
czcams.com/video/DEDcuUF5XaQ/video.html
If you are concerned about the position of your IUD, see your doctor.
Even with longer strings it is not likely that an IUD would be pulled out during sexual activity (although it’s a theoretical possibility, usually the strings tuck up high in the vagina and don’t pose a problem).
-Dr. Dervaitis
OMG ME TOO!! Did you go to doctors? What did they say? Think I’m gonna ring mine on Monday because I feel like the string is too low 🫣
I had a Kyleena IUD inserted as emergency contraception... it says directly on their website that the kyleena cannot be used for this but the OBGYN I went to insisted on it as a posed to the copper one. Any who, he did not inform me about the string and or checking them, among several other things. I’ve had the IUD for over 6 months now and have never been able to feel them. Is it possible that he cut the strings down for some reason? I was never given a one month follow up and have been completely left in the dark about this IUD.
Hi Vanessa-
You are correct, the hormonal IUD is not approved for use as emergency contraception (only the copper IUD is- it’s 99% effective at preventing pregnancy if inserted within 5 days of unprotected intercourse). I’m glad that you didn’t end up pregnant regardless!
Re: follow up and string checks. Every health care provider (who offers IUD insertion) practices a bit differently, not everyone will offer a one month check up, not everyone tells the patient to check strings. Bottom line- if you are concerned about your IUD, I’d recommend that you see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Dr. Kristina Dervaitis
Thank you for taking the time to respond to my concerns Dr.Dervaitis. This gives me a bit of peace of mind and is very reassuring. I really appreciate you’re help!
I am relived to hear this information directly from a professional. I questioned the obgyn about a hormonal IUD vs copper before the procedure, he was animated about using the kyleena. I latter went home to do more research and still couldn’t find any information linking hormonal IUDs and emergency contraception... I wrote a letter to his office about my concerns but I didn’t get any resolution or legitimate feed back. So once again I’m very grateful that you’ve taking the time to write back and provide me with some clarity! :)
Thank you for all your videos!
I just got mine 5 days ago and I was getting a pokey sensation on the 4th day so I went in as a walk in to my home clinic to check because I was seeing the iud strings or iud I wasn’t sure what I was seeing I was too afraid to mess with it and I even took a picture but the doctor said that the iud was in place and still in the uterus and I asked him then why am I having such a pokey sensation? And why am I seeing the strings?? If I were to have intercourse with my partner I know 100% he would feel it because I’m seeing that string It’s REALLY annoying and he just said I don’t know and walked out so I’ve been really frustrated because I’ve called other clinics and they are all booked up and I feel confused if I should even believe the previous doctor that my iud is in place and if it is then why are my strings bothering me so much?😅
I just came back from my obgyn and he said that he can not see my strings but he can feel them so I have to get a ultrasound 😭
I can't feel strings but had it checked last October and it was ok . I have this for hrt and am using oestrogen gel . I was previously on patches but oestrogen levels were very high do I need to be worried about this ?
I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet. If you are concerned, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi Dr Dervaitis! My doctor said that for the insertion appointment she needs to "clamp" my cervix to hold it before measuring it, and during the rest of the procedure until the applicator is removed and the Kyleena IUD is inside. You never mentioned the clamping device in your videos, so I would love to know why my doctor uses it but not you. She said it's to keep the cervix from twisting, and if it's already twisted, she would need to twist it straight, which she said will be very painful. Let me know! Thanks. I've been putting it off for a year, (I bought the device a year ago and it's just sitting in my room), because I have a very very low pain threshold, so I know it's going to be very painful for me. But I know I need to get it done.
Hi!
Great question. The “clamp” is called a tenaculum, and I didn’t mention it in the video because it’s not always necessary. I’d say that I (personally) use it less than 50% of the time, it really depends on the patient’s anatomy. Although generally, one might think it would be more necessary to use it for patients who haven’t yet had children (“nulligravidas” or “nullips”) I actually see a surprisingly high number of nullips who have a fairly easy insertion without need for the tenaculum step.
It’s natural to feel a bit nervous about the insertion, but just remember: “5 minutes = 5 years!” 😊👍
-Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 Update! I got my IUD inserted yesterday...AND IT DID NOT HURT AT ALL OH MY GOD I'VE BEEN PUTTING IT OFF FOR SO LONG AND IT WAS NO BIG DEAL! And I have THE LOWEST pain tolerance. My cervix didn't need to be twisted with the tenaculum, thank god, and the measuring device and the IUD device sensations were like a 2/10 in terms of pain. Like two tiny tiny needle pokes that lasted 2 seconds each. And after I had no nausea or dizziness, but I was just shivering because of adrenaline. Took advil and tylenol throughout the rest of the day and had no cramps, slept well too. Yay!
How soon after insertion can I go ahead and feel for my strings? I got mine inserted yesterday, (it was pretty much painless btw) but I'm worried to put my fingers near my cervix in case I introduce something that causes an infection. Is there any need to wait like a week or so before putting anything near my cervix? Or am I being paranoid? 🤷♀️
No restrictions re: doing string checks after IUD insertion (can essentially check immediately as needed).
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi! Thank you so much for your video. :) I also wanted to ask since it wasn’t covered if it is possible to push up your strings if it is too close to your outer vagina (I don’t know the word for it). Whenever I go to the restroom for long periods of time my strings can be felt and it pokes me and it falls really low. My doctor says it’s fine and whenever my strings felt extremely long just about poking outside of my vag at one point, she said it didn’t adjust when I came in 3 days later. Next time I see her should I ask to cut my strings? I wanted to ask for future reference for both me and anyone else who is struggling with the same problem. I will obviously go to her if I am hurting (extreme cramping, possible cysts, or extremely long periods of time of heavy bleeding). I’ve just researched and I’ve never heard anyone specifically mention if you can physically push up the strings in an extremely delicate manner. Also if you are checking your strings and it feels like it is balled up, should you gently undo it? Or wait for it naturally to fall down? Thank you for all of the advice!! :) ❤️
I hope you could respond to at least the pushing up the string question if possible. I know you can’t give out personal legal advice. Also I hope you have a good day!! 😊
Hello-
If the strings are bothering you, it is possible to have them trimmed shorter. It’s also possible for them to be “tucked” or repositioned higher in the vagina. In some situations your doctor might advise not to trip the strings if there is concern that doing so might make subsequent removal of the IUD a challenge (ie, we don’t want to trim the strings too short). Generally speaking, the strings should but protrude beyond the introitus (vaginal opening). Talk to your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 thank you so much!! I will go to the doctor after New Years. Thanks :)
Thank you for this post Julia, i had my iud inserted last week and I'm experiencing everything you have brought up, the strings feel thick and all the info im finding online says they should be thin and light and today they feel all balled up, i have not had sex as yet and I am so worried that my husband will definitely feel them, they feel really thick. Maybe its the brand, i wish there was more info on this
I'm considering an IUD. This might seem like a dumb question but I've had five kids and I'm wondering if there's a chance or an increased chance that everything is wider/looser/stretched out down there in my uterus and an IUD might be able to naturally shift more easily?
Hi-
I would say the answer is no, not necessarily. However, related to having children- if you have an IUD inserted within 6 months post partum, there is a higher chance of expulsion.
-Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 Thank you so much for your response!
And I'm glad you've mentioned that. I've been doing a lot of research and I was near my own conclusion that getting it too soon after giving birth might have that sort of risk. Thank you for confirming that.
I can feel my strings but I think they are curled around my cervix I can’t tell is it okay? My cervix is considered tilted as well I can feel them just more towards the back
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. Please refer back to video #27. See your doctor if you have concerns.
-Dr. Dervaitis
What if the strings are not seen but ultrasound revealed IUD in place?What happens on removal?
(Please watch video #13 in its entirety, I address this situation)- Dr. Dervaitis
Hi Dr. Kristina I have currently 2 months with my non hormonal iud, I am on my menstrual cycle and I feel the strings longer than usual is this normal during period?
The uterus can sometimes sit lower in the pelvis during menses, which may lead to the strings being lower (and the perception they are longer). If you are concerned about your IUD strings, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I had my iud a month ago. Today i went in to check my string. The iud has drop some and they found the string. She ask if i wanted to remove the iud. I said no because, it has help with my heavy bleeding. She said if i feel and pain or see the iud fall out. Make an appointment. Midwife also said it is ok to leave it in if i have no pain. I use the iud to stop heavy bleeding
A hormonal IUD that has dropped or is “low” is still releasing hormone and so still may be effective at helping with bleeding. It is also likely still providing some degree of contraception (the hormones are still thickening cervical mucous to prevent sperm entry) but it may be less reliable.
-Dr. Dervaitis
what if the iud is not yet remove for 10 years ( excluding the time the iud exertion) clarise
Hi Dr. Kristina, thank you for your video! I have a question, I had a Jaydess IUD put in 3 years ago, and it's supposed to be removed after 3 years. I will have access to free care in a month or so, so I would like to wait until then to have it removed (so I can save a few hundreds of dollars). Would it be dangerous to wait, or is it ok? Thank you ❤
Not dangerous for the IUD to stay in place longer than it’s intended duration of use- but one would need to use an alternate form of contraception after the 3 year mark.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I inserted my IUD now its 2yrs but recently I worked so hard and immediately I feel so sick and iam scared that I might be pregnant is it possible or the sickness is from too much work, thanks so much DR D
This channel is not intended for personalized medical advice. If you are concerned, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hey I got my copper iud in may and they seem to differ in length from time to time. Not by much and I’ve been having intercourse. It seems normals periods are heavier but it was expected. I think it’s just my cervix moving and shifting cause when it’s closer to my period I can’t handle it(sex) as much as usual but on normal days it’s fine. Sorry so ig is it normal for it to be longer (strongs) one day and shorter the next and then just back and forth kinda? There is no pain in between or anything other then cramps and my period at normal times. Is this normal?
The position of the uterus in the pelvis may vary somewhat during the menstrual cycle (for example, a uterus engorged with blood may be heavier and a bit lower in the pelvis). But the length of the strings (the distance they extend from the cervical opening) is usually fairly constant. If you are worried about a change in the length of your IUD strings, I’d recommend that you see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Had Kayleena today. Pain was do bad that
I had a seizure. I haven’t had children so that might be why, but it was the worst pain I have ever felt and I thought my pain threshold was pretty good
Lisa,
I am so sorry to hear this. I have not personally had any patients who have experienced a seizure after an IUD insertion, this is quite unusual. Thank you for sharing your experience. I hope that your pain is improving now.
All the best,
Dr. Dervaitis
I got my IUD last week and I wanted to ask if it's normal for the strings to be like 6 cm long, they were like this from the first day, did my doctor simply leave them long?
Hi I checked my strings today and they feel like they are in a loop and low down
I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet. If you are concerned about your IUD strings, see your doctor (and use back up contraception until then).
-Dr. Dervaitis
I have Mirena iud and I check mine when I shower. I don't feel strings. It feels more like its paper. Is that normal ? Idk if this is a dumb question but im just wondering. Thank you
Not sure what you mean by feels like paper? But if it has felt the very same right from the beginning and you’ve had a check with your doctor (and no new dramatic change in your periods) that would all be reassuring. If you are concerned, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Please help me Should we be scared or worried if we can’t feel the strings I have very short fingers and I felt them about 2 months after I got the iud but now I can’t feel them
Hi Brianna-
As I mention in the video, sometimes it can be tricky to feel the strings... And sometimes the strings might go into the cervical canal where they can’t be felt (and it doesn’t necessarily mean that the IUD has shifted out of position...) Having said that, if you were previously able to feel the strings and now aren’t, the best thing to do is to see your doctor to get things checked out.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I was never told to check my strings
Please note- if someone with an IUD “thinks” they might be pregnant:
-they need to do a pregnancy test and know for sure
-if they are in fact pregnant (
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 thank you doctor cause I been worried the pass week I been having severe headaches feeling very sick and throwing up and my mood been very snappy I went to urgent care yesterday I took a pregnancy test there it was negative but I do still feel pregnant I have 4 kids so I will definitely know the feeling if i was pregnant I also been having some abdominal pain I wasn't never told by the doctor I had to check my iud string I got in put in October 🤷
@@karmamenzel1631 You should see your actual doctor. They might want to rule out an infection and also maybe do a blood test for pregnancy.
I got the mirena iud and it’s been a month and a bit. When I just got my iud in April I got a period, it’s May and I haven’t gotten a period. Is that normal? Also my strings are long and my gynaecologist said I shouldn’t be feeling for my strings at all. But she said she cut them long so it’s easier for removal. I don’t know if I should be worried or not
See video #27 re: strings.
Note that 30% of patients with Mirena may stop having menstrual bleeding (but also note that the chance of pregnancy with Mirena is 2/1000- if there is a chance you might be pregnant, take a test or see your doctor).
-Dr. Dervaitis
I think my IUD strings curled up I may have pushed them with a tampon, should I be worried?
If the strings move up higher into the vagina, or the cervical canal, it does not effect the function of the IUD. It usually doesn’t pose any problem. See also video #13 about IUD removal. If you are concerned about your strings or the position of your IUD, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I had my mirena inserted in April. I haven't been able to get the string check till coming up here in the following weeks. Is it bad that I waited so long? I haven't had the greatest schedule to keep my appointment. And my period started off spotty now it's regular 😅 I'm just nervous it's shifted or is it possible it could be just irregular?
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. If you’re concerned about the position of your IUD, see your doctor.
Hi dr. I got the Mirena iud on 11/23/19 and haven’t gotten a string check. I got my period this month which usually lasts about five days but this time it was only light bleeding for about three and am now on day 13 of spotting. Is this normal?
Hi Salma-
I’d recommend that you watch video #7 “Is This Bleeding Normal”. I think it will answer your question.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I appreciate that you took the time to explain this. It gives me peace of mind, before I have one inserted
I just got mine today and I think it’s worth it. I did feel quite a bit of pain, because my cervix was very tight this was actually my second appointment because I had to use a medicine to help soften my cervix but about 30 minutes after wards(by the time I got home) it had significantly decreased. Heat definitely helps and period cramps is definitely the best example of how it feels