A Seattle woman shares her shock after emergency medical services didn’t know what a copper IUD was after calling for help for her roommate.
In a video with over 1 million views, TikToker Vangie (@missvangie22) says she called 911 because her roommate had “numbness,” “tingling in her hands,” and extreme nausea and pain. This was shortly after getting a copper IUD inserted.
An IUD, short for intrauterine device, is a T-shaped birth control implant. It is inserted through the cervix into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. The non-hormonal copper IUD creates a toxic environment for sperm.
Around 23% of women who use birth control opt for the IUD, per the Cleveland Clinic.
According to the CDC, 60% of women who stop using the IUD cite side effects as their reason for removal. While mild symptoms like period-like cramping and light bleeding are most common, some people may experience severe side effects like infection.
Did emergency medical services know what a copper IUD is?
She says the male first responders, from the 911 operator to the EMS workers on scene, didn’t know what the common device was.
“The fire department shows up, and they’re asking their questions. He looks at me and asks, ‘So what did she have inserted?’” Vangie recounts. She tells him that her roommate had just had an IUD inserted, explaining how the device works.
“This firefighter, he looks at me and goes, ‘Well, has she taken it out yet?’” she says. “No! It’s in her uterus. They have to open up your cervix to put this in. They’re obviously so confused.”
Vangie describes the shape of the implant to the workers, who then seem to realize what she is talking about.
“They’re trying to help and trying to sympathize. How do none of them know what an IUD is?” she continues. “Is this not common knowledge? It was so disheartening.”
How did women react to the TikTok?
In the comments, many women express concern about the emergency responders’ lack of knowledge surrounding a common women’s product.
“The lack of knowledge and awareness for women’s health issues at the literal medical emergency services level is TERRIFYING,” one writes.
“This is so concerning from our emergency responders,” another writes.
“Honestly, please email AND send a physical letter to the fire chief and mayor, and ombudsman if you have one in your area. It sounds like vital, life-saving training is needed for your area’s first responders regarding gynecological health,” a third suggests.
Those who have loved ones working as emergency responders say they’ll make sure to bring up IUDs.
“I’ll be making sure my firefighter husband knows what an IUD means and make sure his coworkers know what it is also! Because that’s ridiculous,” a commenter says.
“Brb going to have a conversation with my firefighter/EMT brother to make sure he knows what a copper IUD is,” another writes.
In a follow-up video, which TikTok muted the sound on, Vangie clarifies in a comment that her roommate is recovering and was experiencing contractions following IUD placement.
@missvangie22 How does no one know what an IUD is help #fyp ♬ original sound – Vangie
The Mary Sue reached out to Vangie and the Seattle Fire Department for further comment.
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