Expanding the Use of Paracervical Block for IUD Placements and Adding a Compassionate Care Assessment

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how different methods of using a numbing medication called lidocaine affect pain during the placement of an intrauterine device (IUD) in women aged 18 to 50. The study also evaluates how patients perceive their clinicians' empathy during the procedure. This research focuses on whether buffered lidocaine, unbuffered lidocaine, or medicated gel can reduce pain for women, including those with prior C-sections or no previous delivery. Participants may receive one of several treatments before IUD placement: a buffered lidocaine paracervical block injection, an unbuffered lidocaine injection, a sham procedure with a capped needle, or application of a medicated or non-medicated gel. The lidocaine is administered near the cervix to numb the area, and the study compares these different approaches to understand their impact on pain relief and patient experience. During the procedure, participants will complete questionnaires rating their pain and satisfaction, as well as their feelings about clinician empathy. Pain scores are measured from when the speculum is placed until five minutes after the procedure. The study monitors these outcomes carefully to gather detailed information about pain control and patient perceptions. Participation includes the procedure visit and follow-up assessments up to five minutes post-procedure.

Empathy Through Pain Control: Lidocaine Paracervical Block for IUD Placements