An IUD, or intrauterine device, is a type of birth control device that is inserted into the uterus. Any woman who is considering using this birth control method should be aware of the possible complications, including infection, menstrual irregularities, and expulsion of the device. Some women may develop a medical condition known as pelvic inflammatory disease. More severe IUD complications may include damage to the uterus and permanent infertility.
Infection is one of the possible complication of using an IUD. The uterus or fallopian tubes could become infected, causing pain, fever, or other symptoms. Although oral antibiotics typically work very well at battling these infections, it is possible for the problem to become severe enough to require surgical intervention, sometimes leading to a loss of fertility.
Menstrual irregularities are the most frequently experienced IUD complications. Menstrual periods often become longer and heavier, especially for the first few months following the insertion of the device. This added blood loss may cause a condition known as anemia and require additional medical treatment. There may also be an increase in menstrual pain and cramping associated with the use of an IUD. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen may help to ease this discomfort, although alternate methods of birth control may need to be considered if the symptoms become severe.
Expulsion of the device is also possible if the IUD moves out of its normal position. When this occurs, it may not be effective at preventing pregnancy. Unfortunately, when pregnancy does occur while using this birth control method, the risks of an ectopic pregnancy are significantly increased. An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants itself outside of the uterus, usually inside one of the fallopian tubes, creating a medical emergency.
Pelvic inflammatory disease may occur in some women as a result of using an IUD. This is a potentially severe type of reproductive infection that often leads to permanent infertility issues. Antibiotics are sometimes successful in treating this condition, although the development of scar tissue may cause severe pelvic pain and other problems. Complications from pelvic inflammatory disease sometimes require surgery to remove the uterus and other reproductive organs, causing permanent infertility. Any questions or concerns about potential IUD complications or other birth control methods should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
