IUD Self-Removal Instruction for Intrauterine Device Users

Overseen By Women's Health Research Unit Department of Ob/Gyn

Age: 18 - 65

Sex: Female

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: Oregon Health and Science University

Disqualifiers: Complicated IUD removal, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 1

Duration: 1 day

30 Participants Needed

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial explores how individuals can safely and effectively remove their own intrauterine devices (IUDs) at home. The research tests different self-removal techniques to understand user preferences and determine the most effective methods. It also examines how self-removal might impact future medical care. Ideal candidates for this trial are those visiting a clinic for IUD removal or replacement and who are comfortable following instructions in English or Spanish. Participants should not have complications such as a missing IUD string or previous failed removal attempts. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to innovative research that could simplify IUD removal for many.

What prior data suggests that these IUD self-removal techniques are safe?

Research has shown that removing an IUD yourself can be safe and low risk if done correctly. Experts emphasize the importance of following clear instructions. They recommend washing hands and using clean methods to reduce the risk of infection. Some sources suggest that self-removal can be as safe as having a doctor perform the procedure, as both involve gently pulling on the strings attached to the IUD. However, many healthcare professionals advise against self-removal because it can be challenging if the strings are hard to reach or if complications arise.

In summary, while some experts consider self-removal safe, following proper guidance is crucial to avoid any issues. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about the IUD self-removal instruction trial because it empowers individuals with more control over their reproductive health. Unlike the current standard, which typically requires a healthcare provider to remove an IUD, this method allows users to do it themselves safely at home. This approach could make the process more convenient and accessible, reducing the need for a doctor's visit and potentially decreasing healthcare costs and wait times.

What evidence suggests that these techniques are effective for IUD self-removal?

This trial will provide participants with instructions for IUD self-removal. Research has shown that some individuals can remove their IUDs independently, though success rates vary. One study found that about 30% of participants successfully removed their IUDs on their own. With instructions, 32% managed it, compared to 28% without instructions. This suggests that guidance might offer slight assistance, but the difference was not significant. Overall, self-removal can work for some, but it may not be effective for everyone. ^{3 6 7 8 9}

Who Is on the Research Team?

Jessica Reid, MD

Principal Investigator

Oregon Health and Science University

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for individuals who currently have an IUD and are coming to a clinic to have it removed or exchanged. They must be able to understand and consent in English or Spanish. People with complicated cases, like missing strings, previous removal failures, or an IUD that didn't work properly can't join.

Inclusion Criteria

Willing and able to give consent with literacy in English or Spanish

I am at the clinic to have my IUD removed or replaced.

Exclusion Criteria

I need help removing an IUD because it's not working properly.

I need help removing an IUD without strings.

I need help removing an IUD after a failed attempt.

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants attempt self-removal of IUDs using novel techniques in an office setting

1 day

1 visit (in-person)

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after IUD self-removal

4 weeks

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

• Instructions for IUD Self-Removal Provided to Participant

Trial Overview The study is testing how well different self-removal techniques for IUDs work. Participants will receive instructions on how to remove their own IUDs. The study aims to find out which methods are effective and what patients prefer.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: IUD Self-Removal Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Oregon Health and Science University

Lead Sponsor

Trials

1,024

Recruited

7,420,000+

Citations

1. contraceptionmedicine.biomedcentral.com contraceptionmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40834-022-00177-w

Developing an intrauterine device self-removal guide One multi-site study evaluated interest and experiences with IUD self-removal. While only 19% of participants successfully removed their own IUD ...

2. sciencedirect.com sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S001078242400074X

IUD self-removal: A randomized controlled trial of a self ... Of the 116 participants, 35 (30%) successfully removed their IUDs, 20 (32%) randomized to the guide, and 15 (28%) randomized to no guide (p = 0.7). While our ...

3. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38518903/

IUD self-removal: A randomized controlled trial of a self ... Results: Of the 116 participants, 35 (30%) successfully removed their IUDs, 20 (32%) randomized to the guide, and 15 (28%) randomized to no guide (p = 0.7).

4. clinicaltrials.gov clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05191238

NCT05191238 | Intrauterine Device (IUD) Self Removal This pilot research study will teach patients how to self-remove intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) through an educational video and simulation and ...

5. contraceptionjournal.org contraceptionjournal.org/article/S0010-7824(24)00074-X/abstract

IUD self-removal: A randomized controlled trial of a self ... Of the 116 participants, 35 (30%) successfully removed their IUDs, 20 (32%) randomized to the guide, and 15 (28%) randomized to no guide (p = 0.7). While our ...

6. reproductiveaccess.org reproductiveaccess.org/resource/iud-self-removal/

IUD Self-Removal Fact Sheet This fact sheet explains the steps someone can take to remove their own IUD at home. The fact sheet includes helpful images.

7. healthline.com healthline.com/health/birth-control/iud-removal-at-home

Need to Remove Your IUD at Home? These 18 Safety ... There are safe and less safe ways to remove the IUD at home. We'll walk you through how to do it as safely as possible below.

8. goodrx.com goodrx.com/conditions/birth-control/can-you-remove-an-iud-yourself?srsltid=AfmBOopUm6BTBm5q9wUdVmdefdl-LixZJimJAKZx_AqRnC9eo0KlYLM4

Can You Remove an IUD Yourself? Read This Before ... When it comes to whether or not you should remove your IUD yourself, most healthcare professionals don't recommend self-removal.

9. picck.org picck.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/PICCK-How-to-Remove-Your-Intrauterine-Device-IUD-By-Yourself.pdf

How to remove your intrauterine device (IUD) by yourself Removing your own IUD is just as safe as removal in a provider's office. Your provider removes the. IUD in the same way by pulling on the strings, they just use ...