More BC questions (IUD)

Steph0871

Ok, so I sucked it up and made an appt for my annual.  I recently switched clinics... I've always just gone to the campus clinic, but I think I've sort of 'outgrown' them, if that makes sense.  Anyway, I made an appointment at one of the specialized Women's Clinics here based on recommendations from a few coworkers.  I called and said I was interested in an IUD, and got an appointment, whatever.

When I got back to my office I looked up her info, and turns out she's a midwife.  I've got nothing against midwives at all (in fact, I like the idea of them.)  But... is that weird to have one for an regular exam and possible IUD?

 

Also... I'm starting to freak out about this a little now (in case you couldn't tell. ha.)  Any advice?  I don't want her to be like "bah. you're young. you don't need an IUD" or anything like that. 

ScarlettDahlia

I know nothing about midwives as doctors either. But if she does say that you're too young and doesn't want to do it, I'd switch again. My doctor was all for giving me an IUD if I decided to go that route (I'm 24).

temurlang

I have nothing against midwives either, but I would prefer my annual to be done by an OBGYN.  Usually the annual exam includes a pap smear, breast exam, internal exam, and some other tests.  Are midwives trained in all that?  Maybe she's an RN (they can do the exam)?  I'm sure the clinic would give you that information if you call and ask.  I've also never heard of an IUD being age-related.  It's really important to be comfortable with your BC method, so I would do further research if that clinic doesn't meet your needs.

ScarlettDahlia

Yeah, I don't think RNs can do an exam either. I know NPs (nurse practitioners) can. So maybe she's an NP?

Steph0871

Nope, not an RN or NP or PA or anything... her creditials are below (copied from the clinic website.)

I don't think IUDs are age-related, but there are some doctors who won't do them if you haven't had kids before.  I talked to my coworker who recommended the clinic.... she said it's the clinic's policy that all new patients talk to a midwife first.  I guess that makes sense; they're probably more well-versed in everything everything.  (It's a specific clinic for OB/GYN stuff).  I think this is just a consultation, and she can do the exam (that never phases me.)  But I'm guessing I'll have to schedule the actual IUD insertion (?) with a doctor doctor if that's what I end up choosing. 

 

Board Certification
American Midwifery Certification BoardEducation Institution
University of Minnesota, Master of Science

 

Archel

Steph0871:

Nope, not an RN or NP or PA or anything... her creditials are below (copied from the clinic website.)

I don't think IUDs are age-related, but there are some doctors who won't do them if you haven't had kids before.  I talked to my coworker who recommended the clinic.... she said it's the clinic's policy that all new patients talk to a midwife first.  I guess that makes sense; they're probably more well-versed in everything everything.  (It's a specific clinic for OB/GYN stuff).  I think this is just a consultation, and she can do the exam (that never phases me.)  But I'm guessing I'll have to schedule the actual IUD insertion (?) with a doctor doctor if that's what I end up choosing. 

This is odd. I've never heard of doctors refusing or even recommending against IUDs if you haven't had children. I've heard doctors recommending them more to women who have given birth, but it acts exactly the same to those who haven't. The only risk is expulsion which is rare enough to begin with, just has a higher frequency with those who haven't given birth.  No problems here though. I can't recommend them enough - no hassle and no side effects for me (even no periods). And I got mine when I was 20.

And yes, Steph. Most doctors recommend that you do a consultation first and then you need to schedule a separate appointment for the IUD (even if you are absolutely certain you want one and feel you don't need the consultation). 

fallbride'10

A nurse midwife is an advanced practice nurse with a master's degree so if they have her working in that setting then she's been trained and certified to do all of those things. I wouldn't worry about that at all and she'll probably be able to spend more time talking with you than a doc would.

As for an IUD, I have heard that some don't like to prescribe it for women who haven't had children but I know of people who have one and don't have kids so I think it depends on the doctor/practitioner. 

manda26

I don't know about the mid-wife thing, I don't think I would care.

I was told a few years ago I couldn't get an IUD since I didn't have children. I think the midset has changed a bit since then though for whatever reason I don't know I never looked into it again. But I heard from my hairdresser when she went to get one that it hurt like hell and she had to not get it because she was in a lot of pain. I have no clue whether this is normal or not, but she never had kids, not sure if that is a reason why it hurt her?

Archel

manda26:

I don't know about the mid-wife thing, I don't think I would care.

I was told a few years ago I couldn't get an IUD since I didn't have children. I think the midset has changed a bit since then though for whatever reason I don't know I never looked into it again. But I heard from my hairdresser when she went to get one that it hurt like hell and she had to not get it because she was in a lot of pain. I have no clue whether this is normal or not, but she never had kids, not sure if that is a reason why it hurt her?

I just made sure I got mine inserted on Friday and had the weekend to lay low. Yes, it will hurt for everyone, not just those who haven't given birth. Honestly though, a little pain is totally worth not taking a pill every day and no periods for 5 years. And no pain when taking it out. Steph, if you have questions about the IUD, I'd love to talk.

scpalmtree06

I'm a few days late to the party here, but wanted to share that getting the Mirena IUD has been one of the best medical decisions I've ever made. Insertion was a piece of cake (a touch of discomfort as she was inserting it, but nothing some Advil couldn't cure), no periods, no need to buy feminine supplies, no need to ever worry about the hassle of periods! The downside is the expense, but hopefully it won't be too bad with insurance. I'm going to make mine last the full five years before removing it in order to TTC.

Steph0871

scpalmtree06:

I'm a few days late to the party here, but wanted to share that getting the Mirena IUD has been one of the best medical decisions I've ever made. Insertion was a piece of cake (a touch of discomfort as she was inserting it, but nothing some Advil couldn't cure), no periods, no need to buy feminine supplies, no need to ever worry about the hassle of periods! The downside is the expense, but hopefully it won't be too bad with insurance. I'm going to make mine last the full five years before removing it in order to TTC.

 

Awesome! Thanks for all the information, everyone!  I have an appt next Monday.  I called my insurance and it's completely covered because it's a 'surgical procedure'.  SCORE.  The guy said I "might have to pay the $11 copay in 5 years when it's removed" but probably not.

I'll let you know how it all goes next week!