Intrauterine device or IUD is one of the most popular contraceptives. An IUD or spiral is placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Today, it’s safe to say that the modern IUD is one of the safest and most effective methods of birth control available. There are two main types of IUDs, namely copper and hormonal IUDs.
For this birth control to be effective, the IUD must be positioned correctly in the uterus. This, of course, is ensured by a health professional when inserting the IUD.
The IUD is said to be positioned correctly when it is in the uterine cavity near the fundus (the dome-shaped top of the uterus). The IUD shaft must extend toward the cervix (cervix). The two arms of the IUD must fully unfold (form a ‘T’ shape with the shaft) during insertion, reaching laterally toward the two cornua of the uterus (the points where the uterus meets the fallopian tubes).
Causes of IUD birth control shift
It’s rare for the IUD to move, but it can happen. Most common in the first few months after insertion. Quoted from Healthlinethe IUD may shift if:
- Having strong uterine contractions during menstruation
- Have a small uterine cavity
- The uterus has a tilt
- IUDs are inserted by health workers who are not experienced in the procedure
The IUD is also more likely to move if:
- User is under 20 years old
- Currently breastfeeding
- Rush to use the IUD immediately after delivery
So, can we know the characteristics of a shifted IUD? It turns out that there are several characteristics that can indicate that there is a possibility that the IUD in the uterus may shift.
IUD features shift
Reported Bustlethe following are the features of the sliding IUD that you need to know:
1. IUD strings feel longer or shorter, or you can’t feel them at all
IUDs are known to have strings that make it easier to retrieve them. Checking the IUD strings is very simple: with clean hands, place your index or middle finger into the vagina up to the cervix. The IUD should be felt in that location.
If you suddenly notice that the strings are longer than before, this is a sign that the IUD may have shifted from where it was placed. Conversely, if you can’t find the strings, it could mean that the IUD has moved further into the uterus.
2. The IUD is felt in the cervix
The IUD is supposed to be placed in the uterus. The user shouldn’t be able to feel it. If you see the IUD coming out of the cervix or feel the bottom of it on the cervix, it means it’s positioned too low and may even be in the process of expelling completely. Also, it starts to feel uncomfortable because there’s a piece of plastic or metal that shouldn’t be there.
3. Partners can feel the IUD during sex
Sometimes you may not notice that something doesn’t fit in the IUD, but your husband may feel the tip during sex. If your partner notices something sticking out of your cervix, check with your doctor to make sure it hasn’t shifted any further.
4. Pain during sex
Some people report that the taste of sex changes slightly after getting an IUD, with certain positions feeling a little more painful. However, if you suddenly get hurt or have pain, it’s probably your body telling you that the IUD isn’t where it should be, like piercing the cervix.
5. Abnormal discharge
Abnormal vaginal discharge can be a sign that the IUD has shifted. If you notice that vaginal discharge is colorless, textured, or smelly, and it’s not a yeast or bacterial infection, it may be a sign that the IUD has been displaced.
6. Bleeding
Your period will most likely change after starting your IUD. If you’re on the hormonal version, you may start having lighter (or even no) periods. Meanwhile, using a non-hormonal copper IUD is known to make periods heavier, and many people experience some spotting during the first few months. However, if you notice that the bleeding is more intense than usual, it could be because the IUD has shifted or doesn’t fit properly.
7. Very intense cramps
Many people experience cramps right after they have an IUD inserted. This is because the copper IUD can make the cramps more intense. But unusual cramps and pain can be a sign that the IUD is shifting.
How to deal with a shifted IUD
If you feel the IUD characteristics shift, don’t try to put it back on yourself. It is best to call your doctor or healthcare provider and make an appointment with them as soon as possible.
The doctor will carry out examinations and tests to see whether the IUD has shifted or not. If they do, they will talk about options for dealing with it. If you plan to have sex before seeing your doctor, use a backup method of contraception. If needed, can also use emergency contraception.
To determine whether the IUD has shifted, your doctor or healthcare provider will first use a small brush to try to locate the strings inside the cervix. If they can find the strings, chances are the IUD won’t move.
If they can’t find the thread, they’ll do a pregnancy test. Pregnancy with an IUD can be dangerous. If necessary, doctors can provide emergency contraception and backup birth control methods.
Actions when the IUD enters the uterus
Next, they will do an ultrasound to look for the IUD in your uterus. If the IUD is still in the uterus, then it is back to the mother and doctor’s choice whether you should remove it or let it enter. This depends on:
- symptoms
- personal choice
- exact location of the IUD
What if it’s not found in the raid? If the IUD cannot be found using ultrasound, the doctor will take X-rays of the abdomen and pelvis. If they find an IUD, they can remove the IUD via a laparoscopic procedure.
Hopefully the information about the characteristics of the shifting IUD KB and how to handle it helps, Mother.
Mothers want to buy health products and other needs of pregnant women, just go straight ahead, click bun here.
Check out other information about IUDs in the video below:
[Gambas:Video Haibunda]
(rap/rap)
