Living with endometriosis has shaped my life in unimaginable ways. With very few alternatives for contraception because the pill gives me severe side effects, I chose an Intra-Uterine Device (IUD). This choice was made voluntarily, but out of necessity to manage the debilitating pain I experience during my monthly cycle. This decision, unfortunately, presented another problem: the painful procedure of IUD insertion without pain relief. 

My personal experience led me to be told It was a painless procedure and that I was “dramatic” when expressing pain. I sat up after the procedure holding back tears of embarrassment as I felt I had no right to be in pain. The moment I sat up, I threw up and cried from further pain that become unbearable. I was given water. The pain proceeded to become even more intense for 4-5 hours after. 

In the UK, there's no mandatory provision for pain relief during IUD insertions, a procedural need that is felt by many women nationwide. A survey by The British Pain Society and the Royal College of Nursing (Royal College of Nursing, 2018) suggests that pain during IUD insertions is a common issue affecting a majority of women. The same study shows that despite experiencing intense pain during these procedures, women often don't receive the necessary pain relief.

The medical community acknowledges the discomfort and pain of IUD insertions. If we are to provide patient-centred care, ensuring safe and comfortable access to contraception is paramount. With the UK leading advancements in healthcare, this change is not only necessary but also achievable.

We're calling on the Department of Health and Social Care to mandate pain relief for all IUD insertions in the UK. As someone who has personally experienced this, I believe it's vital for every woman to have the right to pain-free healthcare. The relief from the monthly pain of endometriosis should not come at the cost of discomfort during IUD insertion. Let's give women the respect, care, and due consideration they deserve. Please sign this petition today.