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2025 - Understanding pain relief during IUD fitting

Background
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a highly effective and long-acting form of contraception. There are two main types: hormonal and non-hormonal (copper). These options make IUDs suitable for people who cannot use other contraceptive methods, or who prefer a method that fits with their lifestyle.

In July 2021, national guidelines were updated to state that anyone having an IUD fitted or removed should be offered appropriate pain relief.

Purpose of this survey
We want to understand people’s experiences of pain management during IUD procedures since these guideline changes. If you have had an IUD fitted or removed after July 2021, we would like to hear about your experience.

Your participation
  • Your responses can remain anonymous.
  • No personal accounts or details will be shared without your explicit permission.
  • The information collected may be used in summary form to inform third parties (e.g. healthcare organisations, policy groups) about trends and findings, but individual responses will not be identifiable.
1.When did you get your IUD fitted?
2.Where did you get your IUD fitted?
3.Were you offered pain relief for your IUD fitting / removal?
4.What pain relief were you offered?
5.Did you accept the recommended pain relief for your IUD fitting / removal?
6.Did you experience pain during your IUD fitting?
7.Rate the pain you experienced from 0-10. 0 being none and 10 being excruciating.
None
Mild discomfort
A bit more than mild discomfort
Uncomfortable
Very uncomfortable
A bit painful
Painful
Very painful
Extremely painful
Almost unbearable
Excruciating
8.Were you advised to take any pain relief before the IUD insertion?
9.Did you experience any of the following during or after the procedure? Select all that apply.
10.Do you feel that you were adequately informed of how the IUD fitting would feel? 
11.Do you think that the pain relief you were offered was suitable for your IUD fitting/removal?
12.What do you feel would be appropriate pain relief for an IUD fitting procedure? Please select all that apply.
13.Would you like to share your experience in your own words? Please write about it below.
14.You can remain anonymous. But if you don't mind being contacted to follow up or provide comment, please leave your details below.
15.Finally, what would have improved your experience of having an IUD fitted? Select all that apply.