Do I need to be asleep to get my IUD taken out? Great question! We hear from many patients that they are a little apprehensive about getting their IUD removed, but the majority of the time, it is a very simple and quick procedure.
"Is it normal, or why is it that every other day I get this funky smell in my woman area? I noticed this happened once I got an IUD. Is it normal or why does this happen? I talked to a close friend of mine and she said she's experienced the same, but we're kind of iffy to ask her doctor about it. Is there something I can do about it or what?"
Whether you have the Mirena, Skyla, or Paragard IUD, you should not be experiencing any kind of unpleasant vaginal odor. Typically a foul odor (described as fishy or rotten) is a sign of bacteria or infection, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, burning, pain during sex, and thick/discolored discharge. It is important to see a doctor so that they can properly diagnose the problem.
What could be causing the smell?
Common culprits of a bad vaginal smell are an STD or infection.
Bacteria Vaginosis - Also known as BV, it's a common infection for women and is caused by an overgrowth of normal vaginal bacteria. With BV, you will see an increase in discharge as well as a strong fishy odor that gets strong after sex. After proper diagnosis, you can be treated easily with prescription oral pills and/or vaginal gel.
Trich - Trichomoniasis, better known as "trich", is a common STD that can be treated. Symptoms include foul odor and a frothy green discharge. A bad odor with pain during urination and/or intercourse may also be present.
Bad Hygiene - The vagina has a very delicate PH balance that has the same acidic level as a tomato. That means that many everyday things can upset this balance, and cause a bad smell or lead to an infection. Some things that are important to remember and practice include:
Why we love IUDs
All in all - we are big fans of IUDs! While patients do sometimes have some temporary side effects when they first get an IUD - they usually go away after a few months when their body gets used to it. An IUD should never be causing a weird smell, itching, redness, or other irritation. These are all signs of infection and should be checked out asap.
Normal (and temporary) side effects from IUDs are usually more in line with the side effects from traditional birth control - mild acne, irregular periods, cramping, and other hormone related side effects. Because of this, we strongly encourage all of our patients to give their bodies approximately 3-6 months to adjust to their IUD. Since they last for so long - it is extremely worth it to wait it out.
The best part about IUD's are that they are safe, highly effective, and maintenance free! Depending on which IUD you get, you won't have to worry about getting pregnant for the next 3-10 years!
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Do I need to be asleep to get my IUD taken out? Great question! We hear from many patients that they are a little apprehensive about getting their IUD removed, but the majority of the time, it is a very simple and quick procedure.
“I tested clean for STDs at my last exam a year ago. When should I get tested again if I have no symptoms?” Great question! We recommend getting screened for STDs annually, or whenever you have had a new sexual partner.
As your trusted Women's Health provider, we want to assure all of our patients that we are open and here for you!
“Can the Mirena be taken out at any time or do you have to wait the 5 years?” One of the best things about Mirena is that it lasts for UP TO 5 years. That means, you can take it out before ​five years if you choose!
Do I need to worry about an IUD getting infected? Enjoy your IUD, worry free! While infections are always possible, your IUD getting infected is very unlikely – less than 1%. If an infection does occur, it usually happens within the first 3 weeks
To our valued Patients: Since 1969, FPA Women's Health has taken great pride in our commitment to caring for patients when they need us most.