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Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers

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Family Planning

A GLOBAL HANDBOOK FOR PROVIDERS

Preventing Infection at IUD Insertion

New inside package of IUDProper insertion technique can help prevent many problems, such as infection, expulsion, and perforation.

  • Follow proper infection-prevention procedures.
  • Use high-level disinfected or sterile instruments. High-level disinfect by boiling, steaming, or soaking them in disinfectant chemicals.
  • Use a new, presterilized IUD that is packaged with its inserter.
  • The "no-touch" insertion technique is best. This includes not letting the loaded IUD or uterine sound touch any unsterile surfaces (for example, hands, speculum, vagina, table top). The no-touch technique involves:
    • Loading the IUD into the inserter while the IUD is still in the sterile package, to avoid touching the IUD directly
    • Cleaning the cervix thoroughly with antiseptic before IUD insertion
    • Being careful not to touch the vaginal wall or speculum blades with the uterine sound or loaded IUD inserter
    • Passing both the uterine sound and the loaded IUD inserter only once each through the cervical canal