Beyond “Just a Cramp”: Rethinking Pain During Gynecologic Procedures

IUD placement and endometrial biopsy are common office-based gynecologic procedures—but for many patients, the pain and anxiety associated with these procedures can be significant.

In this episode of PA Playbook, we explore how clinicians can better anticipate, prevent, and manage gynecologic procedural pain. We’ll discuss IUD insertion and endometrial biopsy, evidence-based approaches to pain management, trauma-informed communication, informed consent, and the importance of listening to patients when they tell us something hurts.

We’ll also look at these procedures from the patient’s perspective: What do patients wish clinicians understood? What language makes them feel supported rather than dismissed? And how can clinicians give patients greater control over their own care? This conversation is ultimately about more than pain medication. It’s about trust, communication, dignity, and creating a better healthcare experience.

Guests: Dr. Elizabeth Cardozo NP & Bob Smithing NP