Abdominal Pain: Is It Related to IUD or Work Stress?

Abdominal pain issues?

Hello, my girlfriend is 27 years old and has a copper IUD.
She is currently in her second year of having it inserted.
She has Mediterranean anemia and her job is demanding, often requiring overtime.
Recently, she has been experiencing several symptoms, including headaches, abdominal pain, excessive hair loss, frequent colds and fevers, shoulder pain, and lower back pain.
The abdominal pain and fever, in particular, have been occurring frequently.
Previously, her abdominal pain would often occur a few days after intercourse, but now it seems to be more persistent.
Could these symptoms be related to the IUD or her work stress? Is she still suitable for long hours of work? Should she seek medical attention or undergo a health check-up? If medical attention is needed, would an X-ray be sufficient to determine if there is an issue with the IUD, or are other tests necessary? She is reluctant to visit a gynecologist.

Juan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/21

Dr. Jian Hongmou reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD) can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in some individuals.
The symptoms you mentioned are likely caused by PID.
If you experience fever, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to avoid delays in treatment.
The insertion of an IUD and physical exhaustion, which can lower immunity, may both contribute to the development of PID.
When visiting a hospital, you should consult the obstetrics and gynecology department, as X-ray examinations cannot diagnose pelvic inflammatory disease.

Reply Date: 2004/11/21

More Info

Understanding abdominal pain can be complex, especially when considering various factors such as the presence of an intrauterine device (IUD) and the impact of work-related stress. Your girlfriend's symptoms, including abdominal pain, headaches, excessive hair loss, frequent colds and fevers, shoulder pain, and lower back pain, warrant careful evaluation.

Firstly, the IUD, particularly a copper IUD, can sometimes cause discomfort or pain, especially in the initial months after insertion. However, if your girlfriend has had the IUD for two years without significant issues, it is less likely that the IUD is the primary cause of her recent abdominal pain. That said, complications such as IUD displacement, perforation, or infection can occur, and these can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain or fever. Therefore, it is essential to consider these possibilities, especially since her abdominal pain has become more frequent.

On the other hand, the stress from her demanding job could also contribute significantly to her physical symptoms. Chronic stress can lead to a range of physical manifestations, including tension headaches, muscle pain (such as shoulder and back pain), and gastrointestinal issues, including abdominal pain. Stress can exacerbate pre-existing conditions, including her Mediterranean anemia, which may also contribute to her feeling fatigued and more susceptible to infections.

Given the combination of her symptoms, it is advisable for her to seek medical attention. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is crucial. While X-rays can provide some information, they are not typically used to assess IUD-related issues. Instead, an ultrasound is often the preferred imaging modality to check the position of the IUD and to evaluate any potential complications. Additionally, blood tests may be warranted to assess her overall health, including her hemoglobin levels, to monitor her anemia and check for any signs of infection or other underlying conditions.

It is understandable that she may feel apprehensive about visiting a gynecologist, but it is essential for her health to address these symptoms. If she is uncomfortable with a gynecological examination, she could start by consulting her primary care physician, who can provide initial assessments and referrals as needed.
In summary, while the IUD could potentially contribute to her abdominal pain, the stress from her work and her underlying health conditions may also play significant roles. A comprehensive evaluation is necessary to determine the exact cause of her symptoms and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Encouraging her to prioritize her health and seek medical advice is crucial, especially given the range of symptoms she is experiencing.

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