Providing the Intrauterine Device

Any time of the month

• If she is starting within 12 days after the start of her monthly bleeding, no need for a backup method.
• If it is more than 12 days after the start of her monthly bleeding, she can have the IUD inserted any time it is reasonably certain she is not pregnant. No need for a backup method.

• Immediately, if she has been using the method consistently and correctly or if it is otherwise reasonably certain she is not pregnant. No need to wait for her next monthly bleeding. No need for a backup method.
• If she is switching from injectables, she can have the IUD inserted when the next injection would have been given. No need for a backup method.

• Any time within 48 hours after giving birth, including by caesarean delivery. (Provider needs specific training in postpartum insertion.) Fewest expulsions when done just after delivery of placenta (if possible).
• If it is more than 48 hours after giving birth, delay IUD insertion until 4 weeks or more after giving birth.

• If her monthly bleeding has not returned, she can have the IUD inserted any time between 4 weeks and 6 months after giving birth. No need for a backup method.
• If her monthly bleeding has returned, she can have the IUD inserted as advised for women having menstrual cycles.

• If her monthly bleeding has not returned, she can have the IUD inserted any time it is reasonably certain she is not pregnant. No need for a backup method.
• If her monthly bleeding has returned, she can have the IUD inserted as advised for women having menstrual cycles.

• If her monthly bleeding has not returned, she can have the IUD inserted if it can be determined that she is not pregnant. No need for a backup method.
• If her monthly bleeding has returned, she can have the IUD inserted as advised for women having menstrual cycles.

• Any time if it can be determined that she is not pregnant. No need for a backup method.

• Immediately, if the IUD is inserted within 12 days after first- or second-trimester abortion or miscarriage and if no infection is present. No need for a backup method.
• If it is more than 12 days after first- or second-trimester miscarriage or abortion and no infection is present, she can have the IUD inserted any time it is reasonably certain she is not pregnant. No need for a backup method.
• If infection is present, treat or refer and help the client choose another method. If she still wants the IUD, it can be inserted after the infection has completely cleared.
• IUD insertion after second-trimester abortion or miscarriage requires specific training. If not specifically trained, delay insertion until at least 4 weeks after miscarriage or abortion.

• Within 5 days after unprotected sex.
• When the time of ovulation can be estimated, she can have an IUD inserted up to 5 days after ovulation. Sometimes this may be more than 5 days after unprotected sex.

• The IUD can be inserted on the same day that she takes the ECPs. No need for a backup method.