Morning After: What to Do If Your IUD Slips Out? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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If you find that your IUD (intrauterine device) has partially slipped out after having unprotected intercourse, it is essential to take immediate action to assess your situation. The effectiveness of the IUD as a contraceptive method can be compromised if it is not correctly positioned within the uterus. Here’s what you need to know and do:

Assessing the Situation
1. Check the IUD Position: If you can see the strings of the IUD or if it feels like it has moved down in the vagina, it may not be in the correct position. If the IUD is partially expelled, it may not provide effective contraception.

2. Timing of Intercourse: Consider when the intercourse occurred in relation to the IUD's position. If the IUD was not fully in place during intercourse, there is a possibility of pregnancy.

3. Pregnancy Risk: The risk of pregnancy depends on how long the IUD has been out of place. If it has been dislodged for a significant time, especially during ovulation, the risk increases.


Immediate Steps to Take
1. Do Not Remove the IUD Yourself: If the IUD is partially expelled, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

2. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Schedule an appointment as soon as possible. A healthcare professional can assess whether the IUD can be repositioned or if it needs to be replaced. They can also confirm whether you need emergency contraception.

3. Consider Emergency Contraception: If you had unprotected intercourse and the IUD is not in place, you may want to consider taking emergency contraception (like Plan B or another morning-after pill). These are most effective when taken within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, but some options can work up to 5 days after.


Understanding the IUD and Emergency Contraception
- IUD Effectiveness: When properly placed, an IUD is one of the most effective forms of contraception, with a failure rate of less than 1%. However, if it is not correctly positioned, its effectiveness diminishes significantly.

- Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs): ECPs work primarily by preventing ovulation. If ovulation has already occurred, they may not be effective. If you are considering ECPs, it is crucial to take them as soon as possible after the incident.


Follow-Up Care
- Regular Check-Ups: After any incident involving your IUD, it’s a good practice to have regular check-ups to ensure it remains in the correct position and is functioning effectively.

- Know Your Body: Familiarize yourself with how your IUD feels and its strings. This knowledge can help you detect any changes early.


Conclusion
In summary, if your IUD has slipped out, it is crucial to act quickly. Contact your healthcare provider to evaluate the situation and determine the best course of action. If you had unprotected intercourse while the IUD was not properly positioned, consider emergency contraception to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy. Always prioritize your health and safety by seeking professional medical advice in these situations.