Risk of Pregnancy After IUD Displacement: What You Need to Know

If an intrauterine device (IUD) falls out, the likelihood of pregnancy increases. It is important to use an alternative form of contraception immediately and consult a healthcare provider for further guidance?

Using an IUD for 8 days, on November 25th, there was unprotected intercourse but no ejaculation.
Later, it was discovered that the IUD had fallen out, but it had been approximately 5-6 hours since it fell out.
Upon discovery, it was immediately cleaned and reinserted.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation? (The menstrual cycle has been somewhat irregular lately, with the most recent period occurring from November 15 to November 21.) Also, was reinserting the IUD the correct action?

Tina, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/25

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low, and this approach is correct.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/11/25

More Info

When it comes to the risk of pregnancy after an IUD (intrauterine device) displacement, there are several important factors to consider. First, it’s crucial to understand how IUDs work. IUDs are highly effective forms of contraception, with a failure rate of less than 1% when properly placed. However, if an IUD becomes displaced or expelled, its effectiveness can be compromised, which raises concerns about the possibility of pregnancy.

In your case, you mentioned that the IUD was expelled for about 5-6 hours before you noticed it and attempted to reinsert it. While it’s good that you acted quickly, it’s important to note that re-inserting an IUD yourself is not recommended. The IUD should ideally be reinserted by a healthcare professional to ensure that it is placed correctly and to minimize the risk of complications, such as infection or improper placement.

Regarding the risk of pregnancy, since you had unprotected intercourse shortly before the IUD was expelled, there is a possibility of pregnancy. The timing of your menstrual cycle also plays a role. If your cycle is irregular, predicting ovulation can be challenging. Typically, ovulation occurs about 14 days before the start of your next period, but this can vary significantly with irregular cycles. If you had intercourse during your fertile window, the risk of pregnancy increases.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test if your period is late or if you experience any early signs of pregnancy, such as nausea or breast tenderness. Additionally, consulting with a healthcare provider is essential. They can provide guidance on the next steps, including confirming whether the IUD is still effective or if you need to consider alternative contraceptive methods.

In terms of the IUD's effectiveness after being expelled and reinserted, it is generally recommended to use backup contraception (such as condoms) until you can confirm that the IUD is correctly placed and effective again. This is particularly important if you are concerned about the risk of unintended pregnancy.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy exists after IUD displacement, the exact likelihood depends on various factors, including the timing of intercourse relative to ovulation and the proper placement of the IUD. It is crucial to seek professional medical advice to ensure your reproductive health is managed effectively and to discuss your concerns about pregnancy and contraception options.

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