If you have recently had an Intrauterine Device (IUD) inserted or are considering one, you likely have questions about the two thin “tails” that hang from the device. While they might seem like a minor detail, these strings play a crucial role in your reproductive health.
Here is a breakdown of what IUD strings are made of, why that material matters, and what you should expect.
1. The Material: Medical-Grade Plastic
Most modern IUD strings (used for brands like Mirena, Kyleena, Paragard, and Liletta) are made of polyethylene.
Polyethylene is a high-quality, medical-grade plastic used in many medical implants because it is biocompatible. This means it does not cause an allergic reaction or irritate the sensitive tissues of the cervix and vagina.
2. Texture and Design: The Monofilament Advantage
IUD strings are designed as a monofilament. This means each string consists of a single, solid strand of plastic, similar to a very thin fishing line.
Why monofilament?
In the past, some IUDs used braided strings. However, medical experts discovered that braided materials could allow bacteria to “wick” or climb up into the uterus, increasing the risk of infection (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease). Single-strand polyethylene strings are much smoother and significantly reduce the risk of carrying bacteria.
3. Appearance and Feel
- Color: Depending on the brand, the strings are usually colored to help doctors see them easily during an exam. They are often dark (black or blue) or clear/white.
- Texture: When first inserted, the strings may feel slightly stiff, like thin plastic. However, over time, the strings absorb moisture from the vaginal environment and become much softer. They often eventually curl up around the cervix, making them less noticeable.
4. Why Do IUDs Have Strings?
The strings serve two primary purposes:
- Checking Placement: You (and your doctor) can feel the strings to ensure the IUD is still correctly positioned inside the uterus and hasn’t been expelled.
- Easy Removal: When it is time to have the IUD taken out, your healthcare provider uses specialized tools to grasp the strings and gently pull the device through the cervix.
5. Common Concerns
“Will my partner feel the strings during sex?”
Because the strings are made of thin polyethylene, they are usually very discreet. A partner might feel them slightly at first (often described as a “fishing line” sensation), but as the strings soften and curl around the cervix, they usually become undetectable. If a partner finds them uncomfortable, a doctor can often trim them shorter.
“Can the strings get ‘lost’?”
Sometimes the strings curl so far up into the cervical canal that you cannot feel them with your finger. This is called “lost strings.” In most cases, the IUD is still in place, but your doctor may need to use an ultrasound or a small tool to locate them.
“What if the strings feel different?”
If the strings suddenly feel much longer, much shorter, or if you feel the hard plastic tip of the IUD itself, the device may have moved. You should contact your healthcare provider to ensure it is still providing effective contraception.
The Bottom Line
IUD strings are made of safe, durable, and infection-resistant polyethylene monofilament. They are designed to be forgotten once they are in place, serving only as a “safety check” to ensure your birth control is working exactly as it should.
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