Higher dose cervical 2% lidocaine gel for IUD insertion: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Pain Management
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Intrauterine device (IUD) insertion is a common gynecological procedure.
• Pain experienced during IUD insertion can be a barrier to uptake.
• Effective pain management strategies are needed to improve patient experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of 6 mL of 2% lidocaine cervical gel in mitigating pain during IUD insertion.
• To compare pain levels between women receiving lidocaine gel and those receiving a placebo.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted.
• Participants were first-time IUD users receiving either 2% lidocaine gel or placebo.
• Pain was assessed using a 0-100 mm visual analog scale.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in pain scores was observed between the lidocaine and placebo groups for speculum insertion, tenaculum placement, or IUD insertion.
• Mean pain scores for IUD insertion were 35.2 in the lidocaine group and 36.7 in the placebo group (p=.8).

Conclusions:

• Topical 2% lidocaine cervical gel is not effective in reducing pain associated with tenaculum placement and IUD insertion.
• Further research may be needed to explore alternative or adjunct pain relief methods for IUD insertion.