But is that enough to get you through the pain?
We spoke to reproductive health and traditional Chinese medicine experts to find out.
First of all, why arent there painkillers available for IUD procedures?
Channing Smith
Sonias Guide to Navigating Pelvic Pain.
Not to mention, it can be an emotionally difficult and especially stress-inducing trip to the gyno.
The same thing is not happening for mens reproductive health procedures.
You wouldnt do a prostate biopsy and give them just an ibuprofen beforehand, Dr. Bahlani says.
How does acupuncture work before IUD insertion?
You wont feel the needles, promise.
Acupuncture is all about stimulating specific pressure points.
This tells the brain to release beta-endorphins, hormones that are our bodys natural opioids, Horwitz explains.
Also, acupuncture can reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol, according to Dr. Bahlani.
And its not just wellness culture thats all about acupuncture: The practice has some documented medical benefits too.
Are there any downsides to acupuncture before IUD insertion?
It definitely cant hurt to try it, though.
You likely wouldnt have anything bad happen or have more pain before you get your IUD placed.
Acupuncture is not meant to clear your body of all pain during your IUD placement.
Having an acupuncture treatment before IUD insertion is not for everyone, says Siminovich-Blok.
