Summarize this article in one sentence.
There are multiple reasons why you might want or need to remove your IUD. You should get your IUD removed if you want to become pregnant, if you have started going through menopause, or you want to start using an alternative birth control method. You may also need to remove your IUD if the expiration date on the device is up, if it failed and you have become pregnant, you caught a sexually transmitted disease, or you need to have a procedure that requires its removal.  On rare occasions, you may need to remove your IUD because of reactions to the device, such as abnormal bleeding, excessive pain, or heavy or exceedingly long menstruation. The expiration date on hormonal IUDs is 5 years. Copper IUDs can be left in for 10 years. Once you know the reason you need removal, you should contact your gynecologist's office to schedule an appointment. Let them know why you need the appointment because you may need a consultation visit first. You may also be able to go ahead and schedule your procedure as well. Either over the phone or during your consultation visit, you should discuss your IUD removal with your doctor. Let her know the reason that you need or want to remove your IUD. If for some reason your need for removal is unfounded, she will let you know and can discuss any reservations you have about keeping your IUD. It is best to be completely honest with your doctor so she can help you make the best choice for you. If you are taking out your IUD in order to start another form of birth control, because of a procedure, or due to an STD, you should start another form of birth control a week prior to your IUD removal. If you have unprotected sex in the weeks leading up to your removal, you may be able to get pregnant after it is removed, even if you don't have unprotected sex after it is removed. This is because sperm can live up to 5 days inside of you. You could also abstain from sex for the week or weeks leading up to your IUD removal if you don't have access to an alternative form of birth control.

Summary:
Consider why you need removal. Make an appointment. Talk to your doctor. Use other forms of birth control.