Red Flags & When to Go In Person for IUD Counseling (Pre-insertion Teleconsult)

Audience: adult

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a common and effective form of long-term contraception. Many people begin the process with a telemedicine visit to discuss their health history, preferences, and suitability for an IUD. Teleconsultations can provide valuable education and help prepare for insertion. However, certain symptoms or health concerns require an in-person visit to ensure safety and proper care. This guide helps you recognize red flags that mean you should seek face-to-face evaluation before or instead of telemedicine counseling. It also explains what telemedicine can and cannot do in this context, how to prepare for your tele-visit, and what to expect afterward. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for physical examination when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pelvic or abdominal pain needing urgent evaluation
• Unexplained heavy vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Signs of infection such as fever, chills, or foul-smelling discharge

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing medical history and contraceptive options
• Providing education about IUD types and insertion process
• Answering questions about benefits and risks
• Preparing patient for in-person insertion visit

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical pelvic examinations
• Inserting the IUD device
• Diagnosing infections or pregnancy without tests
• Managing acute complications or emergencies

What Is an IUD and How Telemedicine Helps

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It can be hormonal or non-hormonal. Telemedicine visits before insertion allow you to discuss your medical history, ask questions, and learn about the benefits and risks. This helps you decide if an IUD is right for you and prepares you for the in-person insertion appointment.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Certain symptoms or health issues mean you should see a healthcare provider in person rather than relying on telemedicine alone. These include:

If you have any of these, please seek urgent in-person evaluation.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do for IUD Counseling

**Telemedicine can:**

**Telemedicine cannot:**

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your teleconsultation:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your teleconsultation, you may:

Follow your provider’s advice carefully to ensure safe and effective contraception.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your medical history and current medications available
• Write down any questions or concerns about contraception
• Ensure a private and quiet space for the tele-visit
• Check your internet or phone connection beforehand
• Know your menstrual cycle dates if possible

After your tele-visit

• Schedule an in-person appointment for IUD insertion if advised
• Follow any instructions given during the tele-visit
• Seek in-person care promptly if red flag symptoms appear
• Keep notes of any new symptoms or concerns to discuss at insertion visit

FAQs

Can I get an IUD inserted during a telemedicine visit?

No, IUD insertion requires an in-person visit with a healthcare provider to perform a physical examination and the procedure safely.

What symptoms mean I should go to a clinic instead of using telemedicine?

Severe pelvic pain, heavy or unexplained vaginal bleeding, signs of infection like fever or foul discharge, or suspected pregnancy require in-person evaluation.

How do I prepare for an IUD telemedicine counseling session?

Gather your medical history, list your medications, prepare questions, be in a private space with good connection, and know your menstrual cycle dates if you can.

Can telemedicine replace all visits related to IUD care?

Telemedicine is useful for education and counseling but cannot replace physical exams, insertion, or management of complications.

What should I do if I develop symptoms after the tele-visit but before insertion?

If you experience any red flag symptoms such as severe pain, heavy bleeding, or signs of infection, seek in-person medical care promptly.

Sources

1. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Contraception: Intrauterine Devices — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Intrauterine Device (IUD) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) — National Library of Medicine.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine guidance cannot replace in-person evaluation when physical examination, testing, or procedures are needed. If you experience any concerning symptoms or emergencies, seek immediate in-person medical attention.