An IUD (intrauterine device) is a long-term, reversible birth control option that can last 3 to 12 years, depending on the type. It is highly effective, but the cost varies based on insurance coverage, the type of IUD, and where you get it inserted.
Letβs break down the costs of IUD insertion, different types of IUDs, and ways to lower expenses.
How Much Does an IUD Insertion Cost?
Cost Factor |
Cost Without Insurance |
Cost With Insurance |
---|---|---|
IUD Device (Hormonal or Copper) |
$500 β $1,300 |
$0 β $200 |
Insertion Procedure |
$200 β $600 |
$0 β $150 |
Follow-Up Visit (If Needed) |
$50 β $200 |
$0 β $50 |
Removal (If No Longer Covered by Insurance) |
$150 β $400 |
$0 β $100 |
πΉ Total Cost Without Insurance: $700 β $2,000
πΉ Total Cost With Insurance: $0 β $300 (depending on coverage)
Many insurance plans fully cover IUDs, making them a low-cost or free birth control option for many people.
Cost by IUD Type
IUD Type |
Brand Examples |
Lifespan |
Cost Without Insurance |
---|---|---|---|
Hormonal IUD (Progestin-Based) |
Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla |
3 β 7 years |
$700 β $1,300 |
Copper IUD (Non-Hormonal) |
Paragard |
Up to 12 years |
$600 β $1,300 |
πΉ Hormonal IUDs release progestin, which helps prevent pregnancy and reduce menstrual cramps.
πΉ Copper IUDs contain no hormones and are great for those who prefer non-hormonal birth control.
Where You Can Get an IUD and the Cost Differences
Location |
Cost Without Insurance |
Cost With Insurance |
---|---|---|
OB-GYN or Primary Care Doctor |
$700 β $2,000 |
$0 β $300 |
Planned Parenthood or Community Health Clinics |
$0 β $1,300 |
Often fully covered |
University Health Centers |
$0 β $1,300 |
Often fully covered |
Family Planning Clinics |
Low-cost or sliding scale |
Often fully covered |
πΉ Planned Parenthood and community health centers often provide free or discounted IUDs for uninsured individuals.
Does Insurance Cover IUD Insertion?
Insurance Type |
IUD Coverage |
---|---|
Employer/Private Health Insurance |
Often fully covered |
Medicaid |
Fully covered in most states |
ACA Marketplace Plans |
Fully covered under preventive care |
No Insurance |
Must pay full cost ($700 β $2,000) |
Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most health insurance plans cover IUDs at no cost, though some high-deductible plans may require partial payment.
How to Save Money on an IUD
- Check your insurance plan β Many fully cover IUDs, so you may pay nothing.
- Go to a community health center or Planned Parenthood β They offer low-cost or free options for qualifying patients.
- Ask about payment plans β Some clinics offer installment payment options for uninsured patients.
- Use an FSA or HSA β If your plan doesnβt cover it, an HSA/FSA account can help pay for an IUD with pre-tax dollars.
Is an IUD Worth the Cost?
Though the upfront cost can be high, an IUD is one of the most cost-effective birth control methods in the long run.
Birth Control Method |
Total Cost Over 5 Years |
---|---|
IUD (Hormonal or Copper) |
$700 β $1,300 (one-time) |
Birth Control Pills ($10 β $50/month) |
$600 β $3,000 |
Birth Control Implant (Nexplanon) |
$1,300 β $1,500 |
Condoms ($100/year) |
$500+ |
πΉ IUDs are a great long-term birth control option that can save money over time compared to pills or other methods.
Final Thoughts
The cost of getting an IUD ranges from $700 to $2,000 without insurance, but most insurance plans, Medicaid, and family planning clinics offer them at little to no cost.
- Most insurance plans cover IUDs 100%.
- Community clinics offer free or low-cost IUDs for uninsured individuals.
- Despite the upfront cost, IUDs save money over time compared to birth control pills or other methods.
Have you had an IUD inserted? How much did it cost? Share your experience in the comments.
For real-world healthcare pricing insights, visit CostHowMuch.com.