Older || 18+

21. Emma

The OBGYN office is sterile and white, with the smell of antiseptic hanging in the air. The nurse leads me into a small exam room and has me put on a thin paper gown. I sit on the cold exam table, goosebumps rising on my skin.

"Dr. Evans will be with you shortly," the nurse says as she closes the door.

My gaze scans over the room, taking in the posters on the wall, the exam tools neatly arranged on a tray table, and the scale positioned in the corner.

There's a soft knock on the door, and the doctor enters. He introduces himself and takes a seat on a rolling stool. "So, Emma, why don't you tell me why you're here today."

I fidget with the paper robe, trying to find the words. "I am getting an IUD. I, um, want to have sex with a partner, and we decided we want to get an IUD. It's easier than condoms, and I won't have to worry about birth control anymore."

The doctor nods. "I understand. Let's take a look at you and then we can discuss the options."

He asks me a few questions about my health and my sexual history. "So, Emma. Would you like to be checked for STDs? It's a quick, simple test and I can get the results in a day or two."

I consider the question. I've never been tested for anything.

"Sure, I guess. That's probably a good idea," I say. I don't believe Ares would have anything, but it's better to check.

The doctor nods. "Great. Now, let's talk about birth control. Are you sure you want an IUD? I have many other less invasive options."

"Yes. It's the best option for me. I've read up on it, and it seems like the best choice," I explain. "I've tried the pill, the injections. But anything with hormones in it doesn't seem to work well for me. My period is irregular and can be painful, so an IUD is a better option for me. Plus, it lasts three years."

The doctor nods. "I see. Well, I can't argue with that. An IUD is a great option for some women. But let's go over the risks first, okay?"

"Of course," I say, sitting up straighter.

"The risks of an IUD are similar to any surgical procedure, but there are additional risks that are specific to the device. The risk of infection is increased due to the device being inserted through the cervix. In addition, an IUD can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or the surrounding area. Symptoms of PID include lower abdominal pain, fever, and vaginal discharge. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor immediately."

I swallow, my throat suddenly dry. "Okay. What else?"

"Another possible risk is an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. This is a potentially serious condition and requires immediate medical attention. Another risk is that an IUD could become displaced or fall out. If this happens, the IUD will need to be removed, and another method of birth control will need to be used. Lastly, an IUD could cause scarring of the cervix, which can lead to difficulty becoming pregnant in the future."

I nod, trying to process all the information.

"Is that everything?" I ask.

"For now. Of course, this is a lot of information. It's important to discuss all of the risks with your partner and make sure you are comfortable with the decision."

"I am. We are," I assure the doctor.

The doctor smiles and nods. "Great. Let's get started then."

"Just lie back, scoot to the end of the table, and prop your feet in these," he says, adjusting the footholds.