NHG does not change the guidelines for IUD insertion despite complaints of pain

The instructions for the IUD placement procedure will not be changed at this time. The Dutch Medical Association (NHG), which is responsible for the relevant contraceptive guidelines, has announced that a review is not yet planned. This spring, the procedure was criticized because some women experience severe pain when the IUD is inserted.

Many stories about pain during IUD insertion also appeared in foreign media. In the US, advice on the procedure was changed accordingly this month. The CDC health organization now recommends how doctors can advise their patients about pain management. In addition, the CDC also recommends new pain relief options, such as special gels or sprays, that may help reduce pain.

Evidence enough

The NHG says that in the last review of the guidelines in April 2023, there was insufficient evidence on the advantages and disadvantages of such local methods of pain relief. “It is important to understand that all methods of pain relief can have disadvantages and risks,” said a spokesperson. If there is sufficient evidence for new pain relief methods when placing an IUD, they will be included in the next review of the council, she is sure.

Criticizing the current direction

Currently, the Dutch guidelines only recommend naproxen and paracetamol. Ava, the Dutch abortion and abortion consumer advocacy group, criticized this in an opinion in de Volkskrant in April. The authors pointed out that “recent studies show that these medications have limited effectiveness. “

Very painful

The idea also included women’s experiences of having an IUD inserted which was very painful. One of the authors, Alina Chakh, now says that this caused a lot of excitement. Some felt that the authors were scaring women. “I’d like to turn that around,” says Chakh. “How many women don’t use an IUD because they don’t want to suffer the pain? Ultimately, an IUD is a good contraceptive method for many women. Why don’t we invest in this? If we make the procedure as pleasant as possible, wouldn’t many more women have an IUD?”

Ava disagrees with the NHG that there is insufficient scientific evidence for local pain relief. Chakh hopes to discuss options with the NHG soon. The NHG says it will keep in touch with various parties. “We are now closely monitoring developments,” said the spokesperson.

ANP