Can You Remove an IUD Yourself? What You Need to Know

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Oluwakemi Balogun (Kemi), MD — Medhaven Health

Last updated: September 2025

An intrauterine device (IUD) is one of the most effective forms of birth control available today. It’s small, long-lasting, and low-maintenance. But when it comes time to take it out, many women wonder: Can you remove an IUD yourself?

The short answer is no—it’s not safe to attempt IUD self-removal at home without medical supervision. In fact, trying to do so can lead to complications that may harm your reproductive health. In this article, we’ll break down why IUD removal should always be handled by a healthcare professional, what the risks are if you try it yourself, and what safe removal options look like.

Why Professional IUD Removal Matters

An IUD is placed inside your uterus, with small strings that hang down through your cervix. While it might sound simple to “just pull on the strings,” removal is more complicated than it appears.

A trained clinician—usually a gynecologist, nurse practitioner, or primary care physician—will:

• Use sterile tools to prevent infection

• Ensure the IUD is not stuck or embedded in the uterine wall

• Monitor for cramping or bleeding during the procedure

• Provide follow-up care if complications arise

When handled professionally, IUD removal takes only a few minutes and is generally painless.

The Dangers of Self-Removal

Many women have searched for phrases like “can you pull an IUD out yourself” or even shared stories online, such as “my boyfriend pulled out my IUD.” While these anecdotes circulate, they should be seen as warnings, not instructions.

Risks of Taking an IUD Out Yourself

• Infection: Unsterile attempts can introduce bacteria into the uterus.

• Broken strings: Tugging too hard may snap the strings, making removal more difficult.

• Embedded IUDs: Some devices partially embed in the uterine wall, requiring a procedure like hysteroscopy IUD removal for safe extraction.

• Uterine damage: Pulling at the wrong angle may cause tearing or internal injury.

• Emergency care needs: Failed attempts often lead to urgent medical visits anyway.

In short, while searches like “can you remove an IUD yourself” or “how to take out an IUD at home” may be popular, the medical consensus is clear: DIY IUD removal is unsafe.

Difficult IUD Removals

Sometimes, even in the doctor’s office, removal isn’t straightforward. A difficult IUD removal may happen if:

• The IUD has shifted or become embedded

• Strings are not visible or have retracted

• Scar tissue forms around the device

In such cases, doctors may use special tools, ultrasound guidance, or a procedure like hysteroscopy to safely remove the device. This highlights why home removal attempts can quickly become dangerous.

What About Mirena IUDs?

Many people specifically ask: “can you remove a Mirena IUD yourself?” The answer is still no.

The Mirena IUD, like other brands, is designed to be removed by a professional. While some women feel the strings and think self-removal is possible, this risks injury. The safest path is scheduling a removal appointment with a qualified provider.

How to Safely Get Your IUD Removed

If you’re considering IUD removal, here’s what you can do:

1. Schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN, nurse practitioner, or local clinic.

2. Ask about your options—whether you want to remove it permanently or replace it with another birth control method.

3. Prepare for mild cramping or spotting after the procedure. This usually resolves within a day or two.

4. Follow up if you experience heavy bleeding, fever, or severe pain.

For those searching “where can I get my IUD removed near me”, start with your primary care provider or women’s health clinic in your area.

First-Hand Insight: What Doctors See

At clinics like MedHaven Health in Glen Burnie, MD, providers regularly see patients who’ve considered IUD self-removal after reading online forums. Dr. Oluwakemi Balogun (Kemi), a primary care physician, emphasizes:

“Even though some women share stories of removing their IUDs at home, it’s never recommended. I’ve treated patients who ended up with complications after trying it themselves. A trained professional can remove it quickly and safely—there’s no need to take that risk.”

This kind of first-hand reassurance can help patients feel safer about making the right decision.

Key Takeaways

• Never attempt to remove an IUD yourself.

• Risks include infection, broken strings, uterine damage, and emergency complications.

• Even difficult IUD removals require special tools and professional care.

• Whether it’s a Mirena or another brand, professional removal is the only safe method.

• Local medical offices and women’s health clinics can handle removal quickly and safely.

Final Word

If you’ve been searching “can I take my IUD out at home” or “IUD self removal,” the best advice is to stop right there. Your health and safety are worth more than a risky DIY attempt. A medical office in Glen Burnie or your local women’s health clinic can handle it in minutes, with no unnecessary risks.