Can I use a menstrual cup if I have an IUD (Intrauterine Device)?
Yes! The cup can be used with an IUD, but it is important to release the suction seal before removal.
We recommend consulting with your gynecologist prior to use and if you just had your IUD fitted, you should wait at least 2 cycles before you start using a menstrual cup.
What is an IUD?
An IUD is a reversible and long-term method of birth control. It’s a small, t-shaped device that’s inserted into the uterus to prevent unwanted pregnancy. It can be removed at any time you wish. There are 2 different types of IUDs, which are divided into copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs.
Both types of IUDs are more than 99% effective and are inserted by an experienced nurse or a doctor. The procedure is simple and quick – although it might cause discomfort to some.
Once inserted you can’t feel it or tell it is there and you don’t have think about pills, condoms or any other form of birth control for years.
Sounds great, right? However, some menstrual cup users worry about using a cup and an IUD together as both products are used internally.
Can a menstrual cup dislodge an IUD?
The major worry for most is if the suction, that’s created when the cup is inserted, can dislodge the IUD. – However, there’s no scientific evidence that show that a menstrual cup can interfere with a fitted IUD or dislocate it.
2011. In fact, a Canadian study from 2011, that examined over 900 women determined that the risk of your body rejecting an IUD is the same whether you are a menstrual cup user or not.
The rates of IUD expulsion are somewhere between .05% and 8%. Different factors can affect the possibility of expulsion such as your age and pregnancy history and how long it’s been since the IUD was inserted.
Things to consider when using an IUD along with a menstrual cup:
Check with your doctor
As with any other gynecological concern, we recommend that you consult with your doctor before starting to use a menstrual cup with an IUD. When you have your IUD fitted, it’s recommended to wait at least 2 cycles before you start using a menstrual cup. The IUD is most likely to become dislodged in the first few months after insertion. Once it has settled into its place, you can start using a menstrual cup.
How will they both fit in there?
An IUD is a long-term, reversible method of birth control which is inserted in your uterus. The cup is designed to sit low in the vaginal canal to collect the flow. The strings from your IUD hang down through your cervix and sit at the top of your vagina. The menstrual cup, however, is placed low in the vagina – a position where it shouldn’t interfere with your IUD.
Release the suction
IUD or not, when removing your menstrual cup, you should always remember to release the suction. To release the suction, you simply give the base of the cup a gentle squeeze and thereby prevent any possibility of pulling the strings. Medical disclaimer: The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. This website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
