Can an intrauterine device (IUD) be left in place without removal?

Sep 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

An intrauterine device (IUD) is commonly referred to as a "birth control ring." Under normal circumstances, an IUD should not be left in place indefinitely. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. Additionally, as women age, particularly after entering menopause, the uterus gradually shrinks. If the IUD remains in place at this stage, it may become embedded in the uterine wall due to uterine atrophy, or even perforate the uterine wall and migrate into the abdominal cavity.

Birth control devices commonly refer to intrauterine devices (IUDs). Generally, an IUD should not be left in place indefinitely. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The details are as follows:

An intrauterine device is a contraceptive device placed within the uterine cavity of women, which works by triggering a foreign body reaction in the local tissue to achieve contraception. However, IUDs have specific recommended usage periods, and these durations vary depending on the material of the device. Once the usage period is exceeded, the contraceptive effectiveness significantly decreases or may even be completely lost. If the IUD is not timely removed and replaced with a new one, unintended pregnancy may occur. Additionally, prolonged placement of an IUD in the body may irritate the endometrium, leading to irregular vaginal bleeding, and could potentially damage the uterus, possibly resulting in uterine perforation in severe cases.

Moreover, as women age, particularly after entering menopause, the uterus gradually shrinks. If the IUD remains in place at this stage, it may become embedded in the shrinking uterus or even penetrate the uterine wall and migrate into the abdominal cavity.

Therefore, an IUD must not be left in place permanently. Women should remove and replace the device before its recommended lifespan ends, or remove it appropriately when no longer desiring fertility and provided their health permits. In addition, regular gynecological examinations are essential for early detection and management of any complications related to the IUD.

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What are the risks and side effects of emergency contraceptive pills?

In general, the risks and side effects of emergency contraceptive pills include menstrual disorders, nausea and vomiting, ovulation abnormalities, breast tenderness, headache, and dizziness. In daily life, to reduce the risks and side effects associated with emergency contraceptives, it is recommended to use conventional contraceptive methods as much as possible, such as using condoms, taking oral short-term contraceptives, or inserting intrauterine devices (IUDs).

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Why am I still bleeding after having an IUD inserted?

In general, "shang huan" refers to the insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD). Prolonged or persistent bleeding after IUD insertion may be caused by factors such as IUD-related irritation, procedural trauma, abnormal device positioning, endometritis, or adenomyosis. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation at a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. In daily life, to prevent the occurrence of this symptom, adequate rest after the procedure should be ensured.

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The best contraceptive method for women

There is no single best contraceptive method for women. Commonly used contraceptive methods for women include condoms, short-term oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices (IUDs), subcutaneous implants, and long-acting contraceptive injections. If discomfort or adverse symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation at a hospital and receive standardized treatment under a doctor's guidance. It is also recommended to have thorough communication with a doctor when selecting a contraceptive method, in order to choose the most suitable option.