How VR goggles distract women from pain when they’re having coil fitted

VIRTUAL reality goggles can help to ease the pain and anxiety suffered by many women during the fitting of the contraceptive coil, scientists say.

The first research of its kind suggests that wearing the technology can lessen acute discomfort during the procedure.

While some women undergo the fitting without any problems, others find it an agonising ordeal.

Broadcaster Naga Munchetty described how being fitted with an intrauterine device (IUD) left her screaming with pain and feeling ‘violated, weak and angry’.

Although the long-term contraceptive is effective at preventing pregnancy, some women experience such extreme discomfort during fitting that they faint, while others decide half-way through not to proceed. NHS advice is that local anaesthetic may be used, but many women say they were never offered it.

Now the latest research shows virtual reality (VR) glasses reduced pain and anxiety levels for all the women who wore them.

Study author Dr Tugba Öz, of Marmara University, Istanbul, said: ‘This technology is invaluable as it is the first and only research to be applied during IUD insertion that shows how effective it is for women by distracting them during the procedure.’

The research, published online in the Scottish Medical Journal, involved 80 women, half of whom were given the virtual reality goggles during IUD insertion, which the report authors described as ‘a painful and stressful procedure for women’. The coil is a small object which is inserted into the uterus and works by releasing either hormones or copper.

Dr Öz and Professor Nurdan Demirci said in their paper: ‘The women were shown a video of a nature walk accompanied by music using VR glasses.

‘Before the procedure, a participant identification form was filled out in both groups and pain and anxiety levels were measured. After the procedure, the pain and anxiety levels of the groups were evaluated.’

All 40 women agreed – 17.5 per cent – or strongly agreed – 82.5 per cent – that watching videos through the glasses helped to reduce their stress and pain.

The researchers concluded: ‘The use of VR in IUD insertion is an effective method to reduce pain and anxiety.’ Latest statistics show just over a quarter of women using sexual health services in the UK choose the coil.

Dr Frances Yarlett, GP and medical director at The Lowdown women’s health research hub, said: ‘Distraction techniques can be really effective and that’s why any other alternative option, including VR technology, is very much welcomed.’

‘Distraction techniques can be really effective’