Background: One of the modern contraceptive methods is the insertion of intrauterine devices which contain copper and are effective for 12 years. One of the barriers to the use of IUDs, is fear from feeling pain during its insertion. EMLA cream 5% (25 mg of Lidocaine and 25 mg Prilocaine ) is a local anesthetic. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of EMLA cream 5% on reducing pain while inserting Copper T 380A IUD.

  Methods: The study was conducted on 92 women in one of the health centers of Hamadan. After applying the cream on the cervix, pain level based on visual analog scale, was assessed in three steps after applying Tenaculum, after entering hystrometer and after IUD insertion and removal of insertion tube. Then, recorded pain levels for each step in case and control groups were compared with each other. Independent t test, Mann-Whitney U test and repeated measures analysis of variance were used to determine and compare the pain levels. To determine the homogeneity of the causing variables chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test were used.

  Result : Entering hystrometer was recognized as the most painful step (P<0/001). The mean score of feeling pain during this step in EMLA group was (3/11±2/53) and in placebo group was (5/23±2/31). EMLA cream reduced significantly the pain in all three steps of IUD insertion.

  Conclusion: Topical application of EMLA cream 5% as a local anesthetic on the cervix before insertion of IUD, reduces pain during this procedure.