I have IUD questions

I’ve never had one before. I’ve had the hormonal implant in my arm for at least ten years now.

I’ve decided I don’t want to use any hormonal contraception so I’d like to get the copper IUD but I have heard some horror stories about having them inserted.

Can someone please give me all the gory details and tell me straight up what to expect?

I’m not afraid to insist on procedural sedation to have it inserted not just for pain but also for anxiety reasons. My anxiety around doctors and clinics and hospitals will NOT make the procedure any easier.

Thank you for your help.

UPDATE:

Your comments have all been SO incredibly helpful. Thank you all so much for sharing your experiences.

I’ve emailed my gynaecologists office for an appointment. I intend to discuss the pros and cons of Mirena vs copper. I like that the hormones in the Mirena are basically relegated to the uterus and not systemic. I don’t like the idea of persistent inflammation from the copper which could lead to long, heavy, painful periods.

I have really good private health insurance with no hospital excesses to pay (I’m in Australia btw) so I’m going to insist that I’m booked on a surgical list to have the IUD inserted under procedural sedation and to have my Implant removed at the same time.

I have a history of sexual trauma, medical anxiety, and fear of the pain with a very low pain tolerance. It might seem overboard but I pay a lot for the insurance so I might as well use it. My gyno is wonderful too so I think he will be on board.

Thank you all again you’ve really helped to make this decision a lot less stressful and straightforward. I appreciate you all x