Can one engage in running after intrauterine device (IUD) placement?

From the Guidelines

It is recommended to avoid running for at least 24 hours after getting an IUD placed to allow your body to adjust and minimize potential discomfort or complications. When considering physical activity after IUD placement, it's essential to prioritize your body's comfort and safety. While the provided evidence [ 1 ] discusses the timing and considerations for inserting an IUD, such as the need for backup contraception and the potential for emergency contraceptive pills, it does not directly address post-procedure physical activity. However, general medical knowledge suggests that strenuous exercise, including running, should be postponed for a short period to reduce the risk of exacerbating potential side effects like cramping, spotting, or discomfort.

• Key considerations include:
  • Listening to your body and gradually returning to your normal exercise routine as you feel comfortable
  • Avoiding activities that could increase discomfort or potentially affect the proper positioning of the IUD
  • Being aware of severe symptoms such as pain, heavy bleeding, and stopping exercise if they occur, then contacting your healthcare provider
• The primary goal is to ensure your safety and the success of the IUD placement, allowing for a smooth recovery and minimizing any potential risks or complications [ 1 ].

From the Research

Running After Getting an IUD Placed

• There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that addresses the question of running after getting an IUD placed.
• However, the studies do discuss the side effects of IUD placement, such as bleeding and cramping, and how they can be managed 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• It is likely that running after getting an IUD placed would not be recommended immediately after the procedure, as it may exacerbate any bleeding or cramping that occurs.
• A study on bleeding, cramping, and satisfaction among new copper IUD users found that bleeding and cramping decreased over the first six months of use, and IUD satisfaction improved over time 6.
• Another study on best practices for reducing pain associated with intrauterine device placement recommends using a person-centered care model, non-pharmacological interventions, and pharmacological options to manage pain during the procedure 5.
• While these studies do not directly address the question of running after getting an IUD placed, they do provide information on how to manage side effects and improve patient comfort during and after the procedure.

Managing Side Effects

• The studies suggest that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other interventions can be used to manage bleeding and cramping associated with IUD use 2, 3, 4, 5.
• Vitamin B1 and mefenamic acid may be effective in treating heavy menstruation, while tolfenamic acid may be effective in preventing heavy menstruation associated with copper IUD use 3.
• Naproxen may reduce pain associated with IUD use, but the evidence is limited 3, 5.
• The use of ibuprofen prior to IUD insertion does not reduce pain associated with the procedure 4.

Patient Satisfaction

• A study on bleeding, cramping, and satisfaction among new copper IUD users found that IUD satisfaction improved over time, and was negatively associated with bleeding 6.
• The study suggests that managing bleeding and cramping is important for improving patient satisfaction with IUD use.
• Another study on best practices for reducing pain associated with intrauterine device placement recommends using a person-centered care model to promote shared decision-making and improve patient outcomes 5.