Analgesia for Pain During IUD Placement

This trial explores methods to reduce pain during IUD insertion, a type of birth control. Researchers are testing three methods: benzocaine gel applied to the cervix, a paracervical block with lidocaine (a numbing injection), and no pain relief, to determine the most effective approach. Participants may receive hydroxyzine, an additional medication, if needed, to help with anxiety. The trial is open to individuals scheduled for IUD insertion or an EMB procedure, who do not have pelvic inflammatory disease or certain other health conditions. The study aims to improve comfort and pain management during these procedures. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, allowing participants to contribute to advancements in pain management.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that applying benzocaine gel to the cervix significantly reduces pain after gynecological procedures, indicating it is generally well-tolerated. Similarly, studies have indicated that a paracervical block with lidocaine effectively lessens pain during IUD placement and is considered safe and effective, with no major side effects commonly reported.

Researchers are excited about these treatments for pain during IUD placement because they offer potentially more comfortable experiences for patients. The use of benzocaine gel applied directly to the cervix is unique because it provides localized pain relief with minimal systemic effects. The paracervical block using lidocaine without epinephrine is another promising option as it numbs the cervix effectively, potentially reducing pain significantly without the adrenaline-related side effects. Additionally, incorporating hydroxyzine hydrochloride if needed offers an extra layer of anxiety relief, making the overall procedure less daunting. These treatments aim to provide quicker and targeted pain management compared to standard options like oral analgesics or NSAIDs, which may not offer immediate or sufficient relief during the procedure.

This trial will compare different analgesia methods for pain during IUD placement. Research has shown mixed results for using benzocaine gel on the cervix to relieve pain during IUD insertion. Some studies suggest it might not work as well as other pain relief methods. In contrast, a paracervical block with lidocaine, another treatment arm in this trial, significantly reduces pain during IUD insertion. Studies demonstrate that this method effectively lowers pain compared to not using any pain relief. Both treatments aim to make the procedure more comfortable, but lidocaine has more consistent evidence supporting its effectiveness.¹²³⁶⁷