Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts now offers sedation option for IUD insertion, among other procedures

BOSTON – Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts (PPLM), the leading provider of sexual and reproductive health care in Massachusetts, recently began offering patients the option of intravenous (IV) sedation for intrauterine device (IUD) insertion procedures which are often uncomfortable and can be painful for patients. IUDs are long acting, reversible contraceptives that are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. 

Few health care providers routinely offer sedation options for IUD insertion. PPLM is one of the first providers in the region to have dedicated appointments with sedation available for patients scheduling an IUD insertion. 

“PPLM routinely offers patients a local anesthetic when getting their IUD inserted. However, we decided to offer IV sedation as another pain management option after listening to patients who have had a painful insertion process or have expressed fear about the insertion process,” said Dr. Danielle Roncari, Chief Medical Officer at Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts. “We’re noticing that a lot of patients are interested in getting an IUD because they are among the most effective, long lasting birth control methods, but that some patients are anxious or afraid to choose this option because they’ve heard the insertion process can be painful. We want all patients to be able to make decisions about their sexual and reproductive health without fear or judgement.” 

Sedation can help calm and relax patients or make them more comfortable before and during in-office procedures. PPLM already does this for in-clinic procedural abortion care.  

“The decision to start this service is guided by patient experience. Patients have asked for this, and we listened. At PPLM, we want patients to feel empowered, heard, and comfortable in their health care decisions and experiences,” said Dominique Lee, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts.  

Currently, IV sedation for IUD, colposcopy, and LEEP procedures is available at PPLM’s Greater Boston, Central Massachusetts, and Western Massachusetts health centers in Boston, Worcester, and Springfield by appointment only.

Patients must call PPLM directly to book this service. Learn more at pplm.org.  

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About Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts: 

Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts (PPLM) is the state’s leading provider of sexual and reproductive health services, including abortion, and has been a leader in promoting sexual health for more than 90 years. We believe that all people deserve the information and expert services to make informed, personal decisions that affect their health, their lives and their futures. The mission of Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts is to ensure every person in the state has access to sexual and reproductive health care and education no matter who they are, where they live, or who they love. Our work is informed by research, powered by advocacy, and conducted with compassion and respect.