IUDs and pain control for adolescents and young adults

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are safe and effective for most adolescents and young adults (AYA) for both contraception and menstrual management. However, multiple barriers exist to placement, including procedure-associated pain. There has been a recent call to action for healthcare providers to optimize pain management strategies for IUD insertion. RECENT FINDINGS: Approach to pain management for IUD insertion varies significantly among providers, and there is no standardized approach to comfort optimization. Several methods of pain control for IUD insertion, both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic, have been studied, though many have variable results. SUMMARY: Approaching IUD insertion counseling through a lens of patient autonomy and reproductive justice will likely improve the patient experience and help providers to work toward enhancing comfort during the procedure. Further research is needed to determine optimal pain control strategies for IUD insertion.