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Understanding the Cost of IUDs: A Comprehensive Guide

How Much Does an IUD Cost?

If you’re considering an intrauterine device (IUD) as a form of birth control, you’re likely wondering about the cost. The good news is that many health insurance plans cover IUDs, but if you’re paying out of pocket, prices can range from $500 to $1,300.

Insurance Coverage: What You Need to Know

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, most health insurance plans must cover prescription birth control, including hormonal birth control pills and IUDs, at no additional cost to you. However, you may need to pay for some costs out of pocket, depending on your plan and the brand of IUD you choose. Additionally, you may need to pay for doctors’ visits, including insertion and removal appointments.

What if I Don’t Have Insurance?

If you don’t have health insurance, there are still ways to make getting an IUD more affordable. Assistance programs can help cover part or all of the cost of an IUD. For example, some manufacturers offer copay savings programs or patient assistance foundations that provide free or reduced-cost IUDs to eligible individuals.

Buying an IUD: What You Need to Do

To get an IUD, you’ll need a prescription from a doctor. This means you’ll need to make an appointment with a healthcare professional like a gynecologist or primary care physician. If you don’t have insurance, you can visit a health clinic that offers programs that significantly reduce or totally cover the cost of your care.

IUD Insertion: What to Expect

A licensed medical professional must insert an IUD, which usually happens at a doctor’s office or clinic. The process is quick, taking just a few minutes, but may cause some symptoms like cramping and pain. Your doctor can walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Types of IUDs and Their Costs

There are currently five FDA-approved brands of IUDs available in the US. IUDs are divided into two types: hormonal IUDs and copper IUDs. The available hormonal IUDs are Mirena, Liletta, Kyleena, and Skyla, which work by releasing a small amount of progestin to prevent pregnancy. Paragard is a copper IUD that prevents pregnancy by interfering with sperm movement.

Here’s a breakdown of the average cost of each IUD if you pay out of pocket:

• Mirena: $1,272
• Liletta: $934
• Kyleena: $1,101
• Skyla: $982
• Paragard: $1,071

Saving Money on an IUD

If you have health insurance, you may be able to get an IUD for free. If not, there are ways to save money. Many IUD manufacturers offer assistance programs that can cover part or all of the cost of an IUD. Health clinics also offer programs that can make birth control more affordable.

Resources

If you have questions about IUDs or aren’t sure if an IUD is right for you, consult a trusted healthcare professional. They can help you narrow down the best birth control options and even contact your health insurance company to find out about coverage. If you don’t have health insurance, make an appointment at a health clinic that offers financial assistance programs.

The Bottom Line

Most insurance plans cover IUDs, but there may still be some costs involved. If you don’t have insurance, there are ways to make getting an IUD more affordable. By understanding the costs and options available, you can make an informed decision about your reproductive health.