There are multiple methods of birth control and IUD is one of them. IUD is convenient, long-term, and fairly low maintenance. It is a popular choice, however, like any other method, it is not foolproof. Failures or breakage may occur and health complications and unplanned pregnancies are a possibility.
Anyone can be a victim of such a problem. Therefore, it is essential to safeguard ourselves with adequate knowledge and be aware of our options in case such a failure occurs-and ideally, ensure that it does not.
Understanding IUD
IUD is the short form for intrauterine device. It is a small t-shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. This procedure can only be done by a healthcare professional.
The two types of IUDs are hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonal IUD releases progestin inside the uterus. Progestin thickens cervical mucus and this blocks the sperm. Sometimes, it may also prevent ovulation.
The non-hormonal IUD may be copper-based. Copper IUDs release copper ions in the uterus that are toxic to sperm. The environment inside the uterus becomes such that fertilization of the egg becomes close to impossible.
How long an IUD lasts depends on its type and quality. They can last for anywhere between 3 to 12 years. They are low maintenance and highly effective with an efficacy rate of more than 99%.
Steps Ahead in Case of IUD Failure
Even if they are highly effective, IUDs still have a chance of breakage, migration, and failure. According to TorHoerman Law, women may even have had to deal with injuries like internal bleeding, organ damage, and infections due to IUD placement or removal. If you think your IUD has failed, here’s what you should do.
Pregnancy symptoms like nausea, irregular menstrual cycle or skipped periods, and tenderness in your breast, are some symptoms you should check for. If any of these are present, you must take a pregnancy test.
IUD strings are positioned near the cervix. You should regularly check on them, and feel them to ensure they are positioned securely. If you think they feel shorter or do not feel them at all, then the device might have shifted.
Since IUDs should not be moved or treated by yourself, let’s understand when you should go to your healthcare professional.
Seek Medical Assistance
If you think your IUD has moved or may have failed, consult your doctor. A pelvic examination is due and an ultrasound may be performed. If it’s a positive for pregnancy, it is important to check whether it is an ectopic pregnancy or not. An ectopic pregnancy is when the egg is implanted in the fallopian tube.
An IUD can also break, creating health complications. If an IUD breaks, broken pieces of the device may remain inside causing infection, pain, or organ damage. Data states that at least 15 women have lost their lives due to IUD breakage.
Legal Course
Failure, defects, or migration of a device like an IUD puts a lot at stake for the user. Physical impacts like pregnancy or uterine perforation can seriously alter your life. It then becomes crucial to seek answers from the manufacturers of such products. You may seek compensation or any other assistance through such lawsuits.
For example, the Paragard IUD lawsuit settlement amounts can range anywhere between $10,000 to $400,000. This lawsuit may be filed by anyone who has suffered injuries because of a faulty Paragard IUD. Perforation, infection, ectopic pregnancy, and inflammation are some of the qualifying criteria. While mental impact can not be completely compensated for, remuneration helps you plan your future better.
Causes of IUD Failure
Intrauterine Devices may fail for multiple reasons.
IUDs may be expelled from the uterus. This is a possibility in more than 2% of cases. Expulsion tends to happen more often in women who have recently given birth or those who experience heavy menstrual cycles.
IUDs may shift or misalign, or they may perforate the uterine wall. This can result in infection, damage to organs, or immense pain. Improper insertion also increases the risk of IUD failure. Further on, hormonal IUDs may fail if the hormone dose is insufficient or they are taken out too soon.
IUDs are one of the popular methods of birth control and it makes sense due to their high efficacy. However, like any other device, they are not foolproof. This guide on IUDs should help you understand IUDs and their risks better. Additionally, you must remember to listen to your body. Your body may give you signals unique to you, helping you take care of yourself better.
Stay informed, stay healthy.