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IUD Removal Nightmare: Wait Times Leave Women Suffering
4 Oct
Summary
- Women face long waits for IUD removal due to limited provider training.
- Halifax centre calls hundreds of times daily for appointments.
- Province acknowledges need for improved women's health services.
A Dartmouth, Nova Scotia resident's struggle to get her IUD removed, facing months-long waitlists and difficulties finding qualified providers, underscores a critical gap in women's healthcare. After her family doctor's unsuccessful attempts to connect her with gynecologists, she was directed to the Halifax Sexual Health Centre, where appointments are booked for late September.
This situation is not isolated, according to the Halifax Sexual Health Centre's executive director. She explained that while IUD insertion and removal are within a primary care provider's scope, they require specific training and equipment, which many health professionals lack or do not prioritize. The center receives 500 to 900 appointments monthly, with patient demand often exceeding capacity due to the high volume of calls.
The province's Department of Health and Wellness acknowledged these challenges, stating that steps are underway to enhance women's health services. Initial priorities include gynecology, menopause, and breast screening, with a commitment to further changes. The director also suggested incentives for healthcare providers, such as improved billing structures and updated medical school curricula, could encourage more professionals to offer these essential reproductive health services.
