In Newfoundland and Labrador, more than 3,700 intrauterine device (IUD) devices were sold last year. However, the experiences associated with their insertion have sparked a wider conversation about women's health care standards in the province. For some women, the IUD insertion process appears routine, while others find it to be a traumatic experience. The lack of transparency and inconsistent standards of care have emerged as significant issues affecting these experiences.
Avery Brown, a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador, was advised that an IUD would be the best option for her reproductive health. However, her insertion experience was far from straightforward. Brown described her ordeal stating, "There's not a lot of clarity going into it or what's happening while they're in the stirrups." She recounted not being prepared for the intense pain and unexpected bleeding she experienced during the procedure.
"and there was a lot of bleeding." – Avery Brown
Despite the challenges, some clinics are setting a different standard. Dr. Kelly Monaghan's Clinic 215 is one such example, where each patient receives an individualized plan. Monaghan emphasizes the importance of communication with patients, saying, "It's a process where all of the patient's questions and concerns should be addressed and you really get into the pros, cons and potential risks of the procedure in question."
Rhiannon Landry-Wicks had two IUD insertions, one in 2018 and another in 2023. She found her experiences manageable, although she did express uncertainty about what to expect in terms of pain.
"I didn't know if there was anything to expect pain-level wise." – Rhiannon Landry-Wicks
The cost of IUD insertion also varies significantly across regions. In Newfoundland and Labrador, the service costs $68, whereas in Nova Scotia, it is priced at $200, not including additional pain management expenses. This disparity reflects broader issues in healthcare accessibility and standardization.
Some women report not being offered cervix dilators during insertion, which can exacerbate pain. Additionally, while sedation is available to some patients, others either decline it or are not offered it at all. Despite these challenges, the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada notes that intense pain during insertion is normal for some individuals.
"Even though some patients have a higher risk of pain," – The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
"it does not mean they are not good candidates for an IUD." – The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
Shannon Driscoll sought an IUD due to painful and heavy periods and found her insertion experience positive. In contrast, Samantha Coffin described her experience as traumatic while addressing symptoms of endometriosis.
"It was definitely excruciating pain. Like probably the worst pain I've ever been in in my life." – Samantha Coffin
Brown's experience left her feeling unheard and misunderstood by healthcare professionals.
"There wasn't a point where I felt like it was where I was being listened to or heard," – Avery Brown
She internalized her distressing experience, attributing it to her own anatomy rather than a lack of transparency in care.
"Basically, the more time you spend with the patient — the more trauma-informed care you provide — the more you're penalized financially because, of course, there's no billing codes for that," – Avery Brown
Monaghan observes that women are increasingly advocating for their own care, which she views as a positive trend in healthcare. This shift pushes for more clarity and standards in procedures like IUD insertions.
"It's such a vulnerable procedure. So to be in that position and then also be then told that… your experience is not what's happening was very offputting and very stressful." – Avery Brown
