How is an IUD removed?

Has anyone had any experience with a Steel IUD being removed? Were there any complications?

• My ladyfriend is Chinese. Due to the 1 child law in China she was given a Steel IUD ten years ago. She is a citizen of the US now and has had pain and wants to get it removed plus she hopes to have more children. She seems to believe that Amercian doctors are not familiar with the steel IUD removal specificially and she is concerned about risks to her reproductive organs if it is removed in the states. Has anyone had any experience with removal of this type of IUD (as opposed to standard U.S. Copper)? Is this a reasonable concern?

• Answer:

  Actually, the copper IUD is only one of several IUDs available in the US. Placing an IUD device through the cervix into the uterus to prevent pregnancy is a centuries old practice. However, IUD removal is simple, regardless of the material out of which it is constructed. The shape is essentially the same IUD to IUD. Each IUD (copper, steel, and plastic) has a "tail" with a string that rests outside of the cervix. For removal, the physician just graps the tail with a sterile instrument and pulls. The thing pops out. Yes, it's that simple. That's why women with an IUD in place are asked to check to ensure that the string is still in place every month. They occasionally fall out on their own (especially during menstruation). Tell your ladyfriend that American physicians can handle the slightly different IUD placed overseas. We get it.