Empathy Through Pain Control: Lidocaine Paracervical Block for IUD Placements

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · Apr 28, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called "Empathy Through Pain Control," is designed to explore how a special numbing medication can help reduce pain during the placement of an IUD (a small device used for contraception) in women who have only delivered babies via C-section. The researchers want to see if using a specific type of numbing technique, which numbs both sides of the cervix, is more effective than the usual method, which only numbs the top. They are also interested in how participants feel about the empathy shown by their healthcare providers during the procedure.

To participate in this trial, women aged 18 to 50 who have a history of C-section deliveries and are seeking an IUD for birth control or heavy menstrual bleeding may be eligible. Participants should be able to speak English and must not have any history of substance use disorders or chronic pain conditions. They will be asked to share their experiences and pain levels after the IUD placement. This study aims to improve pain management and patient care for women undergoing this procedure.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Ability to provide informed consent
• • 2. Women IUD placement for contraception or heavy menstrual bleeding
• • 3. Ages 18-50
• • 4. English-speaking
• • 5. Participants must not have a past medical history of substance use disorders, pain disorders, use of prescription pain medications or are found to be pregnant
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. No history of vaginal delivery
• • 2. Current use of prescription pain medication prior to procedure. Over-the-counter medications such as those containing ibuprofen, aspirin, acetaminophen, or naproxen are allowed.
• • 3. Diagnosed chronic pain condition
• • 4. Current pregnancy
• • 5. Known allergic reactions to components of the local anesthetic
• • 6. History of an IUD placement
• • 7. Current substance use or history of substance use
• • 8. Known contraindications to IUD, such as unexplained vaginal bleeding