The IUD is a small “T” shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent unwanted pregnancy by preventing sperm from fertilizing the egg. There are two types of IUD. One releases copper, while the other releases hormones. The latter also acts on the woman’s body by making the mucus around the cervix thicker to make it even more difficult for the sperm to move towards the uterus. The IUD is a relatively effective method that many women choose because of their desire not to use contraceptive hormones or their inability to do so.
Most women who choose the IUD for contraception do so because of the safety, comfort, and effectiveness it suggests. However, many women who use it fear that any sudden activity or movement during sex could cause the device to move out of place or be expelled from the body. In this FastlyHealarticle, we answer one of the most frequent questions among women who use an intrauterine device: can the IUD move when having intercourse?
Table of Contents
Risk of the expulsion of the IUD
After placing the intrauterine device, it is common for the woman’s uterus to begin to have contractions as a normal response of the organ to the presence of a foreign body. These movements of the uterus usually occur during the first three months of use of the IUD and can cause the device to move out of place or be partially or expelled from the body.
The risk of expulsion of the IUD exists:
- During the entire first year of use
- It is highest during the first three months.
- Expulsions are more common in women who have not been pregnant.
- They are sporadic during the second year of use.
- There is an increased risk of the IUD moving out of position or being pushed out of the body during menstruation, as the uterus is more dilated.
- The chances of displacement due to weight lifting or very sudden movements increase.
The risk of expulsion of the device is 3% of the total population that uses it, and most of the time, it is because the woman’s body does not tolerate it, so she tries, by all means, to get rid of him through contractions.
Can the IUD be moved while having sex?
It is almost impossible for the IUD to move during sex. This fear is widespread, but the truth is that the IUD is located in the cervix, a place where the male member, no matter how long it may be, cannot reach.
In some cases, the man can feel the threads of the device. However, the contact with them is not enough to mobilize the IUD that, remember, is inserted in the cervix. Therefore, its mobility is much more complicated than you think.
The IUD begins to take effect from the first moment it is inserted, but you must know that your uterus is very sensitive during the first 20 days. The risk of expulsion is more significant, so it is recommended not to have sexual intercourse. However, this recommendation is not made because there is a risk that penetration may impact the device (we have already clarified that this is not possible), but because movements during sexual intercourse may facilitate the displacement of the device that has not yet been done. ” attached “entirely to the uterus.
Why the IUD has moved
Both the copper and hormonal IUDs are mechanical devices that, as we mentioned earlier, can move from their original position and considerably decrease the effectiveness of their protection. The mobility of the IUD goes unnoticed in 20% of cases. However, other women experience pain or specific symptoms that warn them that the device is no longer in place.
If you suspect that your IUD may have been displaced, the first thing you should do is check that it is still inside your body. To do this, follow the following steps:
- Rinse your hands well with antibacterial soap and water.
- Get into a squatting position.
- Insert your index or middle finger into your vagina until it touches your uterus, which has a rubbery texture similar to the nose.
- Try searching with your finger for the end of the IUD strings. If you find them, the device is still inserted.
- Check that the length of both cords is as similar as possible. If so, the device is positioned correctly, and there has not been any displacement. If you notice that one string is longer than another, the IUD has likely moved out of place. It is essential to start using an additional contraceptive method in this case.
- When checking the position of the IUD, it is important not to pull on the strings, as this could change their original work.
Signs that the IUD has moved
- Pain after sexual intercourse.
- Vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic pain.
What to do if the IUD has moved?
When the intrauterine device has moved from its original position, it is essential to make an appointment with the gynecologist as soon as possible to check the status of the IUD. Your doctor will likely offer to put it back in place or, depending on displacement, remove it for a new appliance.
Once the IUD has been moved, only a health expert can insert or remove it. The woman should not try to relocate or remove the device on her own, as it may cause severe damage to her reproductive system.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any type of condition or discomfort.
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I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.