I took mine out about 2 weeks ago, and I know a few others on here have done it as well. It didnt hurt, I didnt feel it at all and then there it was in my hand, just like that. All you do is grab the strings and give a firm tug and it should slide right out. If you feel any resistance or pain at all then stop immediately and call your Dr. But unless it is embedded or something then that shouldnt be an issue. After taking it out, you will start to bleed within the next 2 days or so, but you shouldnt have any bleeding with removal.