Table of contents:
- Signs that you should be aware of when the IUD is shifted
- 1. The IUD string is longer or shorter, not even felt
- 2. Pain during sex
- 3. Severe stomach cramps
- 4. Unusual vaginal bleeding
- 5. Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Could a shifting IUD have any impact on health?
- When to see a doctor
An intrauterine device (IUD) or better known as a spiral birth control device is implanted in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Pregnancy is preventable immediately after you put it in, and can last for years without having to change tools or refill prescriptions. With a note, the position of the IUD must be precise and not shifted. The position of the IUD shifting from its original place can reduce the effectiveness of the device in preventing pregnancy. Therefore, you need to know and be aware of the signs that the IUD position has shifted position.
Signs that you should be aware of when the IUD is shifted
1. The IUD string is longer or shorter, not even felt
At the bottom end of the IUD device is a string (string) long enough. That's why when it is just inserted into the uterus, the doctor will cut a little of the rope. Ideally, you can feel where the rope is.
When you notice that the string is actually getting shorter or longer than before, this is a sign that the IUD is shifting. In some cases, the IUD's sliding position can even pull the string into the vagina, making it appear "swallowed".
2. Pain during sex
If you have recently complained of pain during sex that you never had before, this may be a sign that the IUD, which should be in your uterus, is drooping down to the cervix.
On the other hand, you may not even notice. On the other hand, it is your partner who feels that the IUD is shifted and out of place.
3. Severe stomach cramps
Most women will experience stomach cramps for a few days after inserting the IUD and during menstruation, especially if using copper spiral birth control. Stomach cramps as a side effect of this installation should not be very painful.
If over time you notice that the cramping pain is getting stronger and lasts a long time, this may be a sign that your IUD has moved. However, abdominal cramps are not always a guarantee that the IUD will shift. So to be sure, check with your doctor.
4. Unusual vaginal bleeding
Just like stomach cramps, spiral birth control can cause some women to experience light spots or spotting.
The type of spiral birth control you use also affects your menstrual bleeding. Hormonal IUD users tend to experience menstrual bleeding that is much lighter than usual, or even no period at all after the body adapts to the IUD. In contrast, the copper IUD often makes menstruation heavier.
So, it is important to be aware of your menstrual bleeding pattern before and while using the IUD. If bleeding is heavier than usual, it may be because the IUD has shifted out of place.
5. Abnormal vaginal discharge
Leucorrhoea is the body's way of cleaning the vagina. On the other hand, vaginal discharge can also be a sign that the IUD has deviated in position - especially if the amount of fluid and the color of the discharge is abnormal. Normal vaginal discharge should be colorless and odorless.
A lot of vaginal discharge, greenish in color, causing an unpleasant odor could be a sign that the IUD's position has shifted. However, it can also be caused by vaginal infections. We recommend that you contact your doctor immediately to find out what the main cause is.
Could a shifting IUD have any impact on health?
Moving the IUD, either partially or completely out of the uterus, can increase the risk of an unwanted pregnancy.
In addition, the location of the IUD that is off the mark can also cause some serious health complications, such as:
- The uterus has a hole or a wound in the uterus.
- Infection.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Heavy bleeding, causing anemia.
This complication is rare, but requires immediate medical attention so that it does not develop into a more severe problem. So, immediately consult a doctor if you suspect the IUD position has changed from its original place.
If you are still using the IUD but find yourself pregnant, this can increase your risk of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
When to see a doctor
Medical examination is necessary for women who experience severe cramps, heavy bleeding, fever, and vaginal pain that lasts a long time. These symptoms can indicate that the IUD you are using has changed positions, causing complications.
x
