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What to Expect During Your IUD Insertion: A Comprehensive Guide

IUD insertion Women's health clinic in Brisbane

Considering an intrauterine device (IUD) for contraception? It’s a smart choice for many women due to its reliability and long-term effectiveness. At Sirona Women’s Health Clinic in Brisbane, we’re dedicated to making your experience as smooth as possible by providing personalised care and guidance throughout the process.

In this blog, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about IUD insertion, from the preparation and procedure to what to expect afterward. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your decision to choose this highly effective contraception method.

Why Consider an IUD for Contraception?

IUDs are one of the most popular and effective long-term contraception methods, providing protection against pregnancy for several years. They come in two types: hormonal and copper, both of which offer distinct advantages depending on your health goals and lifestyle.

Hormonal IUD

This small, T-shaped device releases a steady stream of progestin, which prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and thins the uterine lining to reduce the likelihood of pregnancy. It’s an excellent option for women who prefer a low-maintenance contraceptive method.

Copper IUD

The copper IUD is a non-hormonal alternative that works by releasing copper ions into the uterus, creating an environment that is hostile to sperm. It’s a great choice for women who prefer to avoid hormones but still want a long-term, highly effective contraceptive option.

Both types of IUDs are more than 99% effective, making them some of the most reliable birth control methods available.

What Happens During IUD Insertion?

IUD insertion is a relatively quick procedure, but it can seem a bit daunting if you’re not sure what to expect. At our Brisbane clinic, we make every effort to ensure you’re comfortable and informed throughout the process. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

  1. Initial Consultation: Before we proceed with the IUD insertion, your GP will have a discussion with you about your medical history and contraceptive preferences. We’ll also explain the benefits, risks, and possible side effects of each IUD type, ensuring you’re making a fully informed decision.
  2. The Insertion Procedure: The insertion takes place in a private, comfortable setting at our clinic. You’ll lie back, and a speculum will be used to gently open your vagina, allowing access to the cervix. Your doctor will then carefully insert the IUD into your uterus. While some discomfort or mild cramping is common, the procedure typically lasts only a few minutes.
  3. Post-Insertion Care: After the procedure, we’ll provide you with information about post-insertion care. You may experience mild cramping, spotting, or changes in your period initially. These are normal reactions and should resolve in a short period.

What to Expect After IUD Insertion

It’s normal to have questions about how your body will react after IUD insertion. Here’s what you should expect in the days and weeks following the procedure:

Potential Side Effects

Some women may experience the following after an IUD is inserted:

  • Mild cramping or discomfort, similar to menstrual cramps
  • Light spotting or irregular bleeding in the first few months
  • Heavier periods with the copper IUD, or lighter periods with the hormonal IUD

These side effects often improve over time as your body adjusts to the device. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to contact our Brisbane clinic for advice.

When to Seek Medical Help

While complications are rare, it’s important to stay vigilant for signs of any issues:

  • Severe abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Unusual bleeding or heavy spotting
  • Fever, chills, or other signs of infection

Should you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately for further evaluation.

Why Choose Our Brisbane Women’s Health Clinic for IUD Insertion?

When it comes to choosing a clinic near you for IUD insertion, it’s crucial to choose one that makes you feel supported, heard, and cared for. Here’s why so many women in Brisbane trust us with their contraception needs:

  • Experienced and Compassionate GPs: Our team of doctors specialises in women’s health and is highly experienced in IUD insertion. We understand that every woman is different, and we tailor our services to meet your unique needs.
  • Comprehensive Care: From the initial consultation to post-insertion support, we provide thorough care at every stage. We’ll explain the process, answer any questions, and offer advice on managing any aftercare.
  • Comfortable and Safe Environment: Our Brisbane clinic is designed with your comfort and privacy in mind. You can trust that your procedure will be performed with the utmost care in a compassionate, supportive environment.
  • Personalised Approach: We understand that choosing the right contraception is a personal decision, which is why we provide a range of options and discuss your lifestyle, health history, and preferences to find the best fit for you.

Booking Your IUD Consultation in Brisbane

Are you ready to take the next step toward long-term, effective contraception? Book your IUD consultation at Sirona Women’s Health Clinic in Brisbane today. Whether you’re considering a hormonal or copper IUD, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back from exploring your contraception options. Our experienced GPs are here to provide expert advice, answer any questions, and ensure you feel confident in your decision.

Schedule your consultation now and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident future.

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that you may have questions or concerns about getting an IUD inserted. Here are some common queries we receive, along with clear answers to help you feel more confident about your decision.

Most women experience mild to moderate discomfort during IUD insertion, similar to menstrual cramps. However, pain levels can vary depending on the individual. To minimise discomfort, we’ll ensure you’re well-prepared and comfortable before the procedure. You can take over-the-counter pain relief (such as ibuprofen) beforehand to help manage any discomfort. If you’re concerned about pain, talk to your GP, who can discuss options for making the procedure more comfortable.

Once the IUD is inserted, it begins working immediately if it’s inserted during your period or within the first seven days of your cycle. If the insertion occurs at any other time, we recommend using additional contraception (such as condoms) for the first seven days after insertion to ensure full protection.

IUDs are more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, while the risk is extremely low, it is still possible to get pregnant. If you experience any unusual symptoms like missed periods or severe pain after IUD insertion, contact your doctor as it could indicate a problem such as an IUD displacement or pregnancy.

IUD displacement is rare, but it can happen. It may cause symptoms like cramping, abnormal bleeding, or changes in your period. If you suspect that your IUD has moved, or if you experience unusual pain, schedule a follow-up appointment with your GP to ensure everything is in place. If necessary, the IUD can be repositioned or replaced.

Yes, women who have not had children can still use an IUD. However, it’s important to discuss your medical history and personal circumstances with your GP to ensure that an IUD is the right contraceptive method for you. Some women may have an increased risk of complications, so a thorough consultation is essential.

Yes, you can have your IUD removed at any time by a qualified healthcare provider. Removal is a quick and simple procedure that can be done in our Brisbane clinic. If you decide to try for pregnancy, your fertility should return quickly after removal, often within a few months.

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At Sirona Women’s Health, we’re dedicated to providing you with the personalised, high-quality care you deserve. Our experienced all-female clinic, serving Annerley and the Greater Brisbane area, is ready to listen, support, and empower you through every stage of your healthcare journey.

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What we do

INTRODUCTION

This privacy policy is to provide information to you, our patient, on how your personal information (which includes your health information) is collected and used within our practice, and the circumstances in which we may share it with third parties. Our obligations are set under the Privacy Act 1988.

WHAT IS PRIVACY?

As an individual, the Privacy Act grants you enhanced authority over the management of your personal data. Under the Privacy Act, you have the right to:

  • Understand the purpose behind the collection of your personal data, its intended use, and who will have access to it.
  • Opt not to disclose your identity or to use an alias in specific situations.
  • Request access to your personal data, including health information.
  • Cease receiving unsolicited direct marketing communications.
  • Request correction of any inaccuracies in your personal information.
  • Lodge a complaint against an organization or agency covered by the Privacy Act if you believe they have mishandled your personal information.

WHY AND WHEN YOUR CONSENT IS NECESSARY

By becoming a patient at our practice, you grant consent for our general practitioners and practice personnel to access and utilize your personal data to deliver optimal healthcare services. Access to your personal information will be restricted to staff members who require it for your care. Should there arise a necessity to utilize your information for purposes beyond healthcare provision, we will obtain your explicit consent beforehand.

HOW CAN YOU LODGE A PRIVACY RELATED COMPLAINT AND HOW THE COMPLAINT WILL BE HANDLED AT OUR PRACTICE

We treat privacy-related complaints and concerns with utmost seriousness. We encourage you to communicate any privacy issues you may have in written form. Subsequently, we will endeavor to address and resolve them in accordance with our established resolution procedure. Complaints can be forwarded to our Practice Manager delivered to 1/720 Ipswich Road, Annerley 4103. You may also wish to have a confidential chat with our Practice Manager beforehand. Our Practice Manager can be reached by phoning our practice during business hours – Monday – Friday. All complaints are likely to be responded to and actioned within 2 business days.

WHY DO WE COLLECT, USE, HOLD AND SHARE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION

To deliver healthcare services effectively, our practice requires the collection of your personal information. Our primary objective in collecting, utilizing, storing, and managing your personal data is to oversee your healthcare needs. Additionally, we employ this information for associated business activities, including financial transactions, practice evaluations, accreditation processes, and operational functions such as staff training.

DEALING WITH OUT PRACTICE ANONYMOUSLY

You possess the right to engage with us anonymously or under a pseudonym, unless such actions are deemed impractical, or unless legal obligations or authorizations necessitate interaction solely with identified individuals.

WHAT TYPES OF INFORMATION DO WE COLLECT?

Your doctor relies on information regarding your past and present health to deliver quality care. Data pertaining to your health, medical history, or anticipated medical treatments is termed “personal health information” if it enables someone to identify you.

Our practice adheres to the Guidelines on Privacy in the Private Health Sector outlined by the Office of the Federal Privacy Commissioner. This commitment ensures the confidentiality and security of your personal health information.

We maintain a documented policy outlining the handling of your personal health information, which is accessible to all patients for review.

The information we collect encompasses:

  • Names, date of birth, addresses, and contact details
  • Medical details including medical history, medications, allergies, adverse events, immunizations, social history, family history, and risk factors
  • Medicare number (where available) for identification and claiming purposes
  • Healthcare identifiers
  • Health fund details

HOW WE COLLECT YOUR PERSONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Our practice may gather your personal information through various channels:

  • During your initial appointment, our staff will collect your personal and demographic details as part of the registration process.
  • Throughout the provision of medical services, we may gather additional personal information.
  • Your personal information may also be obtained when you interact with us via our website, email, SMS, telephone calls, online appointments, or social media.
  • In certain situations, personal information may be sourced from other avenues, as it may not always be feasible or reasonable to collect it directly from you. This may involve information obtained from your guardian or responsible person, other healthcare providers involved in your care (such as specialists, allied health professionals, hospitals, community health services, pathology, and diagnostic imaging services), as well as pertinent information from your health fund, Medicare, or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs when necessary.

PRIVACY AND ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS

Our practice frequently receives communications via email, however in order to adhere to Australian Privacy Principals and ensure a more efficient and reliable service for our patients, we have transitioned away from email as our primary form of communication.

It’s important to note that our practice also does not engage in communication with patients via social media. We have implemented a social media policy to ensure adherence to professional standards. If you would like a copy of this policy, please inform our reception staff.

Our patients are still able to submit non-urgent enquiries via email or via our website however depending on the nature of the enquiry, should expect a 2 day turn around. For more urgent matters, we encourage our patients to phone our Practice during business hours – Monday-Friday.

Privacy is a priority for us, even on our website. Here’s how we ensure your privacy is respected:

  • Secure Connection: Our website is encrypted to protect your data when you interact with us online.
  • Limited Data Collection: We only collect necessary personal information on our website, and we’re transparent about what we collect and why.
  • Data Protection Measures: We employ robust security measures to safeguard any information you provide on our website from unauthorized access or misuse.
  • Third-Party Policies: If our website uses third-party services (like analytics or social media plugins), we ensure they also prioritize user privacy.
  • Cookie Policy: We inform you about our use of cookies and give you options to manage your preferences.
  • Clear Communication: We’re upfront about our privacy practices and provide easy-to-understand

WHERE WE STORE AND PROTECT PERSONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

This practice utilizes electronic records for efficient management of patient information. Any physical documents such as specialist letters, X-rays, CT scans, and pathology results received via post are securely stored away from public view until they are scanned into our computer system. Once the necessary actions have been taken, these documents are securely destroyed following appropriate protocols.

To ensure the security of personal health information, our practice implements various measures including screen savers, passwords, anti-viral software, firewalls, regular data backups, and maintenance routines.

Your doctor is committed to maintaining the integrity of your medical record, ensuring that it is:

  • Accurate, comprehensive, well-organized, and legible
  • Up-to-date
  • Sufficiently informative for another healthcare provider to deliver care
  • Free of offensive or irrelevant remarks
  • Includes a summary of your care
  • Can be used, with your permission, to remind you of follow-up appointments, checkups, and reviews

Your doctor will only collect information that is pertinent to your medical care. If you have any concerns or questions regarding the information being requested, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for clarification.

WHEN, WHY AND WITH WHOM DO WE SHARE YOUR PERSONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

We occasionally share your personal information in the following circumstances:

  • With third parties collaborating with our practice for business purposes, such as accreditation agencies or information technology providers. These third parties are obligated to adhere to the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) and our privacy policy.
  • With other healthcare providers involved in your care.
  • When required or authorized by law, such as in response to court subpoenas.
  • In situations where it is necessary to mitigate or prevent a serious threat to a patient’s life, health, or safety, or to public health or safety, or when obtaining the patient’s consent is impractical.
  • To aid in locating a missing person or to establish, exercise, or defend a legal claim.
  • For confidential dispute resolution processes.
  • When statutory requirements mandate sharing certain personal information, such as mandatory notification of certain diseases.
  • As part of providing medical services, including through electronic transfer of prescriptions and My Health Record.
  • When booking appointments online via Hotdoc.

Access to your information is restricted to individuals who require it for legitimate purposes. Outside of providing medical services or as outlined in this policy, our practice will not share personal information with any third party without your written consent.

We will not disclose your personal information to entities outside Australia (except under exceptional circumstances permitted by law) without your written consent. Our practice will refrain from using your personal information for direct marketing of our goods or services without your explicit consent. If you do consent, you retain the right to opt out of direct marketing at any time by notifying our practice in writing.

Your personal information may be utilized by our practice to enhance the quality of services we offer through research and analysis of patient data. We may provide de-identified data to other organizations to improve population health outcomes. This information is securely stored within Australia, and patients cannot be individually identified. If you prefer not to have your information included, please inform our reception staff.

HOW YOU CAN ACCESS AND CORRECT YOUR PERSONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

You have the right to access the information contained in your medical record. We believe that sharing information fosters good communication between you and your doctor, promoting optimal healthcare.

Upon request, your doctor can provide you with an accurate and up-to-date summary of your care, such as when you are relocating and transitioning to a new healthcare provider. Feel free to ask your doctor for a summary of your care for any reason. If you request access to your full medical record or a summary, your doctor may need to redact any information provided by others on a confidential basis.

Your doctor must also consider the potential risk of physical or mental harm to you or others that could arise from disclosing your health information. While there are circumstances where access may be denied, you will be informed of the reasons if this occurs. In most cases, your doctor will gladly provide a thorough explanation of the health summary or medical record provided. Please note that a small but reasonable administration fee may be charged for such access, as well as the time spent with your doctor.

If you discover that the information in your record is inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated, our practice will take reasonable steps to rectify it. We may periodically ask you to confirm that your personal information held by our practice is correct and current. Additionally, you can request corrections or updates to your information by submitting written requests to our practice via email.

We do not recommend erasing information from your record, as this may lead to incomplete documentation.

POLICY REVIEW STATEMENT

This privacy policy undergoes regular review to ensure alignment with any changes that may arise. A copy of the most recent version of the privacy policy will always be accessible at the reception desk for your reference.

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Sirona Women’s Health acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we work and pay our respects to Indigenous Elders past, present and emerging.
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