An IUD prevents pregnancy. It comes in two types — the hormonal IUD, which releases progestin, and the copper IUD. Although most of the IUD is deep in the uterus past the cervix, strings hang outside of the cervix into the vagina. These strings allow for easy removal.
An IUD is safe and highly effective at stopping pregnancy. You should be able to feel the strings with your fingers. A sexual partner may also feel them during sex, but they should not cause discomfort.
In addition to IUDs, there are many other forms of contraception available.
Where does an IUD sit?
An IUD sits inside your uterus, also known as your womb. The device is T-shaped, and a doctor or nurse inserts it into the womb through the vagina and cervix.
Once inside, the arms and body of the IUD sit inside the uterus. Strings from the bottom of the IUD hang down through the cervix and about 1–2 inches into the vagina.
Could a partner feel an IUD during penetrative sex?
A sexual partner may be able to feel the IUD strings during penetrative sex, but it is uncommon. If either of you is uncomfortable with the possibility, you can ask a doctor or healthcare professional to trim the strings.
However, if the strings are cut too short, it may not be possible for you to feel them to check that the IUD is still in place.
If you or a sexual partner experiences discomfort during intercourse, the IUD may have become dislodged. If this is the case, the IUD will not be effective, and you should consider contacting a doctor or healthcare professional about removing or replacing the IUD.
If a penis touches it, will it hurt either of you?
A penis touching IUD strings should not hurt you or a sexual partner. It may be more likely that a partner feels the strings when the IUD is new, as the strings get softer over time.
A hormonal IUD lasts 3–8 years. There is currently only one copper IUD available in the United States, and this can last up to 12 years.
Will a sex toy hurt?
No type of penetrative sex — including with a sex toy — should hurt. If you do experience pain or discomfort, you can speak with a healthcare team for information about other kinds of birth control.
The only pain associated with an IUD is cramps. Cramping might happen in the first few weeks after inserting the IUD.
Could a partner feel an IUD with their fingers?
It is possible for a partner to feel an IUD with their fingers.
Since the strings hang down from the cervix, you and a partner may reach them with fingers.
When you have an IUD inserted, you can learn how to feel for the strings with your fingers to make sure the IUD is still in place.
Can rough or other forms of sex dislodge an IUD?
No type of sex can dislodge an IUD. Regardless of position, the IUD should stay in place.
What can dislodge an IUD?
Sometimes an IUD can come out or become dislodged.
They are more likely to dislodge if:
- you are a teenager
- have heavy menstrual bleeding
- get an IUD immediately after childbirth
Research from 2019 found some instances of menstrual cups dislodging IUDs, but further research is necessary to confirm this.
If an IUD is out of place, it is no longer effective at preventing pregnancy, and you may need to consider an alternative form of birth control until you can ensure it is back in place.
How to tell if your IUD becomes dislodged
It’s a good idea to check that an IUD is still in place a few times in the first month of use. You should then try to check every month after your period.
You can feel for the strings to check if an IUD is in place. If you can’t feel the strings, it might have moved. You can also check your menstrual pads or cup during your period to ensure the IUD has not fallen out.
Other forms of birth control
There are many types of birth control besides an IUD, including:
- combined oral contraceptives containing levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol (Alesse, Enpresse)
- progestin-only pill (Camila, Heather)
- patch (Xulane, Twirla)
- hormonal vaginal contraceptive ring (Nuvaring, Annovera)
- diaphragm
- sponge
- spermicides
- female condom
- male condom
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