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IUD removal can be a complex and costly process, but the good news is that insurance often covers it. Many insurance plans consider IUD removal a medically necessary procedure, especially if you're no longer using the device or are experiencing side effects.
Typically, insurance companies require a doctor's note to verify the reason for removal, which can include things like pregnancy, heavy bleeding, or device expulsion. Some insurance plans may also require a trial period of trying to remove the IUD at home before covering the procedure.
In the US, most insurance plans, including Medicaid and private insurance, cover IUD removal, but the out-of-pocket costs can vary depending on your plan and location.
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What You Need to Know
You can use an IUD to prevent pregnancy for 3 to 12 years, depending on the type, and it's always your choice to have it removed at any time.
It takes just a few minutes for your doctor to remove the IUD, so it's a quick and relatively painless process.
You may want to have your IUD removed if you want to become pregnant or if you want to use a different birth control method.
Worth a look: What Does Loss of Use Insurance Cover
Overview
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You can use an IUD to prevent pregnancy for a pretty long time - anywhere from 3 to 12 years, depending on the type. It's always a good idea to talk to your doctor about how long you can use it.
You have the freedom to have your IUD removed at any time, for any reason. This might be because you want to become pregnant or try a different birth control method.
Removing an IUD is a quick and easy process that takes just a few minutes. Your doctor can do it in the office.
How It's Done
To have an IUD removed, you'll need to schedule an office visit with your doctor. You may be asked to take a pain medicine like ibuprofen 30 to 60 minutes before your appointment to help with cramps.
The procedure typically starts with you getting some privacy to get ready, then you'll be asked to take off your clothes below the waist and get a covering to drape around your waist. You'll lie back on the table with footrests to keep your legs comfortable.
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Your doctor will use a tool called a speculum to gently open your vagina a little bit, which may cause some pressure. They'll look for the IUD strings that usually come through the cervix.
The doctor will use a tool to hold the strings and gently pull on them, causing the IUD arms to fold up as it slides through the cervix and out the vagina. You might feel some cramping during this process.
The speculum is then removed. If your doctor can't see the strings, they may use other tools or do an ultrasound to help with IUD removal.
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Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for IUD removal can be confusing, but let's break it down.
Southern Cross insurance only covers IUDs for medical reasons, not just for contraception.
You need to have symptoms of severe period cramps, severe menstrual bleeding, or endometrial hyperplasia to be covered.
The company will not cover IUD removal if it's solely used for birth control.
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If you're injured during the extraction of your IUD, you might be eligible for an ACC claim.
ACC can cover treatment injuries if there's a clear link between the treatment and the injury, and the treatment was done by a registered health professional.
Injury caused by the treatment itself, not a necessary part of it, may be covered.
You can contact your health provider or ACC to lodge a claim and have your case reconsidered if new medical evidence comes to light.
Here's an interesting read: Health Insurance Cover Letter
IUD Types and Costs
There are several types of IUDs, including hormonal and non-hormonal options. The most common types of IUDs are the Mirena, Skyla, Kyleena, and ParaGard.
The Mirena IUD is a hormonal IUD that releases a small amount of progesterone, which can cause side effects like heavier bleeding and mood changes. It's typically more expensive than other IUD options, with a cost ranging from $500 to $1,000.
The ParaGard IUD, on the other hand, is a non-hormonal IUD that uses copper to prevent pregnancy, and is generally less expensive, with a cost of around $500 to $700.
Mirena Cost
Mirena, a type of IUD, is often covered with little or no out-of-pocket costs. In 2017, 95% of women who used a Bayer IUD, like Mirena, had minimal costs.
The Affordable Care Act requires health plans to cover FDA-approved birth control, including IUDs, at low or no cost to the patient. This means patients may not have to pay out-of-pocket for Mirena.
However, patients may still be responsible for product-related costs, such as insertion or removal procedure fees. This can vary depending on the specific health insurance plan.
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Copper and Hormonal IUDs
The copper and hormonal IUDs are two popular options for birth control. The copper IUD is 99 percent effective as a contraceptive.
One of the main advantages of the copper IUD is that it doesn't cause any hormonal side effects. This can be a relief for those who are sensitive to hormones or have experienced unpleasant side effects from other birth control methods.
Inserting a copper IUD is typically a simple and safe procedure. Removing an IUD may briefly cause pain, but this is usually temporary.
In rare cases, an IUD can embed itself in the uterus, occurring in around 1 in 1000 IUD insertions. This can be more common with inexperienced insertions and in women who are breastfeeding in the first six months after having a baby.
The risk of an IUD perforating the uterus is relatively low. However, it's essential to talk to a doctor who has experience with inserting IUDs before making a decision.
Gynaecologists and fertility doctors, like Dr. Guy Gudex, recommend seeking advice from a professional with experience in IUD insertions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to remove the IUD?
The cost of IUD removal on MDsave ranges from $109 to $472, depending on your insurance and plan. Compare prices and save on IUD removal costs today.
Is IUD removal considered a procedure?
Yes, IUD removal is considered a medical procedure that can be performed in a doctor's office or clinic. It's a quick and relatively simple process, but it's essential to have a healthcare professional do it.
Sources
- https://www.mirena-us.com/ordering-reimbursement
- https://www.medicare.org/articles/does-medicare-cover-an-iud/
- https://www.cigna.com/knowledge-center/hw/medical-topics/intrauterine-device-removal-abp4777
- https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/521422/iuds-woman-told-insurance-wouldn-t-cover-surgery-after-failed-copper-iud-removal
- https://phoenixwomensclinic.com/phoenix/womens-health/iud-removal/
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