Copper-Releasing IUD Insertion Technique
In this image: A copper-releasing IUD.
1. Fold the IUD arms.
In this image: Fold the arms of the IUD into the hollow insertion tube far enough to retain them.
2. Align the flange.
In this image: Make sure that the arms of the IUD are parallel to the horizontal orientation of the flange to ensure proper placement within the uterus.
3. Set the depth.
In this image: Set the flange equal to the measured depth of the uterus.
4. Position the inserter rod.
In this image: Place the solid white inserter rod into the insertion tube so that it just touches the bottom of the vertical arm of the IUD.
Inserting the copper-releasing IUD:
Stabilize the cervix
Insert the IUD unit
Release the IUD arms
Ensure fundal placement
Remove the inserter rod
Remove the insertion tube
See details images below.
1. Stabilize the cervix.
In this image: Stabilize the cervix with the tenaculum, if necessary.
2. Insert the IUD unit.
In this image: Stabilize the cervix with the tenaculum, if necessary.
In this image: A close up of a tenaculum used to stabilize the cervix.
3. Release the IUD arms.
In this image: Hold the solid inserter rod stable while withdrawing the insertion tube approximately 2cm to release the IUD arms; the arms spread to the "T" position. A small "pop" may be felt as the IUD unfolds.
In this image: A close up of the solid inserter rod.
4. Ensure fundal placement.
In this image: Slowly advance the insertion tube to ensure "high" fundal placement of the IUD.
In this image: Close up of the insertion tube.
5. Remove the inserter rod.
In this image: Remove the inserter rod while holding the insertion tube in place.
6. Remove the insertion tube.
In this image: Remove the insertion tube and the tenaculum. Cut the IUD strings to a length of 2-3cm.