The Effectiveness of Music on Pain and Anxiety in IUD Insertion

Tuning Out: The Effectiveness of Music on Pain and Anxiety in Intrauterine Device Insertion

Although intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a highly effective contraceptive method, fear of pain during insertion is one barrier to use. A review of literature reveals little investigation of interventions for anxiety management during the procedure. Furthermore, evidence of non-pharmacological interventions for both anxiety and pain management is limited. Music has been shown to be effective at reducing anxiety and pain in a variety of contexts, however to the investigators' knowledge, its effectiveness for anxiety and pain relief during the IUD insertion procedure has not been formally examined. This study will therefore examine the effectiveness of listening to music on anxiety and pain during IUD insertion.

The study is a randomized controlled trial of patients at least 16 years of age undergoing an IUD insertion. The experimental group will receive music, self-selected, with a music-playing device prior and during the procedure and the control group will receive standard care. Data for pain and anxiety will be collected prior to the procedure, and during, and after IUD insertion. In addition, a post-procedure questionnaire will be given to patients and providers to ask about satisfaction and acceptability of the intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Sufficient understanding of English to complete questionnaires
• Women who will attend the clinic for an IUD insertion and accept to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Women with chronic pain