Best Practices for Intrauterine Device Insertion: Improving the Patient Experience

The purpose of this article is to educate nurse practitioners on evidence-based best practices for managing pain during intrauterine device (IUD) insertion. Despite current practice patterns, evidence supports the routine use of both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic strategies to reduce anxiety and pain before, during, and after IUD insertion, ultimately improving the patient experience and reducing barriers to care. Appropriate pain management strategies support patient-centered, trauma-informed, and equitable reproductive health care. By acknowledging the current deficits in both evidence and practice, nurse practitioners can facilitate transparent discussions around pain associated with IUD insertion, consider individual risk factors and patient preferences, and influence meaningful practice change.