If you’ve recently gotten an IUD—or you’re considering one—it’s natural to wonder how it might affect your sex life. Questions like “Can you feel an IUD during sex?”, “Can my partner feel it?”, or even “Do you have to pull out with an IUD?” are among the most common I hear from my patients in Hartford.
As a family nurse practitioner specializing in women’s health, I’ve guided countless women through IUD insertion and aftercare. The good news? Most people enjoy normal, pain-free, and worry-free sex after an IUD. Let’s go over what to expect, what’s normal, and when to call your provider.
Can You Have Sex with an IUD?
Yes—you can absolutely have sex with an IUD once your body has adjusted after placement. In fact, one of the biggest benefits of both hormonal and copper IUDs is that you can enjoy spontaneous, long-term contraception without needing to think about birth control each time.
Most healthcare providers recommend waiting about 1–2 weeks after insertion before having sex. This gives your cervix and uterus time to heal and lowers your risk of infection.
Can You Feel an IUD During Sex?
Generally, you should not feel your IUD during sex—and neither should your partner. The IUD sits deep inside your uterus, far away from the vaginal canal. The only part that extends into the vagina is the thin string your provider uses to remove or check placement.
However, there are a few exceptions:
-
Some partners may feel the strings if they’re cut too short or positioned low.
-
You or your partner may feel minor discomfort if your IUD has shifted or is improperly placed.
-
The strings typically soften over time, making them less noticeable.
If your partner says, “I can feel your IUD during sex,” or you experience pain, schedule a quick checkup to confirm that the device is in place.
Can My Partner Feel My IUD?
It’s rare, but possible—especially shortly after placement when the strings are still stiff. Sometimes patients tell me, “My boyfriend can feel my IUD and it hurts him.” This doesn’t mean something is wrong; it just means your provider might need to trim or reposition the strings slightly.
If your partner feels a sharp or poking sensation, avoid sex until your follow-up visit. Your clinician can check for proper placement and make small adjustments to ensure comfort for both of you.
Does an IUD Cut or Hurt Your Partner?
No, the IUD itself cannot cut or harm your partner. It’s inside your uterus, not your vagina. Only the strings might brush against your partner’s penis during deep intercourse, but that sensation should be mild and temporary.
If you or your partner experiences ongoing discomfort, don’t ignore it—your provider can easily fix the issue.
Pain or Cramping After Sex with an IUD
Some women experience cramps after sex in the first few weeks after IUD placement. This happens because your uterus is still adjusting to the device, and sexual activity can cause mild uterine contractions.
You might also notice:
-
Light spotting after sex (IUD-related)
-
Mild cramping or pressure
-
No pain, but a different sensation during intercourse
These symptoms typically go away within a few weeks.
When to Call Your Provider
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:
-
Persistent pain during sex with an IUD
-
Heavy bleeding after sex or cramping that lasts more than a few hours
-
Your partner feels hard plastic or discomfort during sex
-
You can’t feel your IUD strings or they feel much longer/shorter than before
These could be signs of IUD displacement, which can happen rarely after insertion.
Spotting After Sex: What’s Normal and What’s Not
A small amount of spotting after sex with an IUD is normal—especially in the first few months after insertion. This can happen because your cervix is still healing or your uterus is adjusting to the hormonal changes (especially with Mirena or Kyleena).
However, bright red bleeding, pain, or discharge should always be checked by your provider. It could signal an infection or a shifted IUD.
Sex After Mirena IUD Placement
Mirena is a hormonal IUD that releases levonorgestrel, which thickens cervical mucus and prevents pregnancy. After insertion:
-
Wait at least 7–14 days before sex to allow healing.
-
Use backup contraception for 7 days if inserted outside your period.
-
Once settled, you can have unprotected sex safely without needing your partner to “pull out.”
That’s right—you don’t have to pull out with an IUD because it’s highly effective (over 99%).
Can You Have Unprotected Sex with an IUD?
Yes, you can. Both copper and hormonal IUDs offer reliable pregnancy prevention. However, they do not protect against STDs, so if you or your partner have new or multiple partners, using condoms is still important.
Is It Normal to Bleed After Sex with an IUD?
Occasional bleeding during or after sex can happen, particularly after insertion or during the adjustment period. Causes include:
-
Mild cervical irritation
-
Hormonal changes (Mirena and other levonorgestrel IUDs)
-
Uterine sensitivity
If it’s just light spotting and not painful, it’s usually nothing to worry about. Persistent bleeding, though, should always be evaluated.
Discomfort After Sex with an IUD
Some people feel mild discomfort after sex when they first get their IUD. This can include:
-
Cramping
-
Slight pressure
-
Tenderness low in the abdomen
Here are a few quick comfort tips:
-
Use a heating pad for cramps.
-
Try gentle positions during sex for the first month.
-
Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen if you feel sore.
Sex After Copper IUD Placement
The copper IUD (Paragard) works differently from hormonal types like Mirena—it creates a toxic environment for sperm without hormones. The same post-insertion guidelines apply:
-
Wait 1–2 weeks before intercourse.
-
Expect some cramping or spotting initially.
-
Once placed, you’re immediately protected from pregnancy.
Pain or Bleeding During Sex: When to Be Concerned
If sex hurts after an IUD, or if you experience bleeding during intercourse, it might mean:
-
The IUD has shifted.
-
There’s cervical irritation or infection.
-
The strings need trimming.
You shouldn’t feel ongoing pain or discomfort during sex. A simple pelvic exam or ultrasound can quickly rule out placement issues.
Mirena and Sex: What to Expect Long-Term
Once you’ve adjusted, Mirena should not affect your libido, comfort, or pleasure. In fact, many women report improved sexual satisfaction due to reduced anxiety about pregnancy.
Some may notice lighter or no periods after several months, which can make intimacy feel easier and less stressful.
Final Thoughts from Meghan Killilea Galli, APRN, FNP-BC
Having an IUD shouldn’t interfere with your sex life—in most cases, it enhances it. You can have comfortable, spontaneous, and protected sex without the constant worry of birth control pills or condoms.
If you notice pain, bleeding, or if your partner feels your IUD during sex, reach out to your healthcare provider. These issues are typically simple to fix.
Your IUD should work for you—not against you—so don’t hesitate to ask questions and make adjustments for your comfort and peace of mind.
Disclaimer: This is informational content, not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Meghan Killilea Galli, APRN, FNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in Connecticut with over 5 years of clinical experience in urology, women’s pelvic health, and primary care. She currently practices with Hartford HealthCare and Griffin Faculty Practice Plan, where she provides evidence-based, patient-centered care. Meghan founded Health Gardeners to make reliable health information accessible for Hartford residents and beyond. Read More 