23) IUD Expulsion: How Can I Tell if My IUD Fell Out? What Do I Do?
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- čas přidán 20. 07. 2024
- IMPORTANT 2023 UPDATE re: IUD DURATION OF USE- US FDA now approves 52mg levonorgestrel IUD (Mirena, Liletta) for 8 YEARS use for contraception. When treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding is the primary indication, best results are usually seen in the first 5 years. Kyleena (19.5mg) is still 5 years. See video #35 for info on copper IUD extended use.
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Dr. Kristina Dervaitis, a gynecologist in Newmarket, Ontario (Canada) answers your IUD questions:
What is IUD expulsion?
What are the risk factors, why does it happen?
How can I tell if my IUD has fallen out?
What do I do if I think my IUD has fallen out?
Will I be able to use another IUD if I’ve had an IUD expulsion?
For more information about contraception, I recommend the official sexual health website of the Society of Obstetricians & Gynecologists of Canada (SOGC): www.sexandu.ca
Please note: this channel is provided as a volunteer public health education initiative (not for profit, no industry support, the channel is not monetized with ads). Dr. Dervaitis received her MD in 2000 and completed her OB/Gyn residency training in 2005 at Western University.
My two reticences for IUD are 1) Anxiety. Less control and arbitrary assessment of "things feeling normal". It make take weeks to realize a change in menstrual cycle, at which point, there is a risk for unwanted pregnancy. Also, strings may "feel" shorter or different even if the IUD is firmly in place. Doubts can spruce up easily. 2) Access to care in case of a anxiety, a problem or just a question. So fast access to a gynecologist to appease the anxious mind would help. This is where the oral contraceptive is good for the control freak: you can physically count the pills you've taken. And also the arm implant: apparently you can poke your arm and feel the implant. Thank you Dr. D, your channel is INVALUABLE to us women.
Thank you so much for existing. I live in America in the Bible belt and just got my IUD this morning (a little over 13 hours ago). My provider did little instruct for how to check and the strings. Or a lot of information as a mattered fact. And I just felt lack of understanding on my part after talking to friends and coworkers about my procedure. (Just a bit tmi I passed a clot today even though I am early I've been spotting since my procedure. And at first I could feel the IUD or what I thought was it. And I couldn't after the clot.) You have given me knowledge to understand how to check and what to check for and what do you know my strings are in place right in the cervix. The description on how to do it was perfect. Thank you so much. Now I can finally sleep in peace.
It means so much to me to receive this sort of feedback. I am so happy to hear that you found this information helpful!
All the best,
Dr. Dervaitis
This is an excellent series on IUDs - thank you for taking the time to make these videos.
So glad you found the videos helpful!
-Dr. D
Ikr I sure do appreciate it
I needed to see this. I will be going back to my primary and i need a new gyno.
Off topic but I love all of your glasses!
Very helpful video. Thanks doc for sharing .
Your videos are amazing Doc! . I wish you could make shorts as well.
Thanks for watching! I do have a series of shorter videos called “Fast Facts” which are one minute long videos- you can find them on my channel and my Instagram @dr_dervaitis.
-Dr. D
Thank you so much, this is super helpful
Please do a video on IUD migration to other areas.
Thanks for the suggestion, I’ll add it to my list of “to do” videos!
-Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 omg did you do one yet for migration?
Yes! See video #33
czcams.com/video/Y5J9NygBdds/video.html
-Dr. Dervaitis
This was very informative, thank you!
You’re very welcome! Glad it was helpful!
Thank you doc you look so much like a Hollywood actress... keep making amazing content and helping us women with the value info.
Thank you so much for the videos! This is so amazing for especially time like now. One quick question, how do we know if we have dysmenorrhea? Everyone is with different tolerance of pain, and sometimes in case of me, I take lots of pain relief before period starts to prevent bad cramps.. so I don't know how much pain it will be without medication. It is pretty bad with 2 tylenols normally so i take 3 at a time.. what would be the good way to know if we have it? And if i have it, would IUD shouldn't be considered? Thank you so much again!!!
Hello-
Dysmenorrhea means “painful menses”. It is admittedly difficult to quantify pain, and it can be somewhat subjective. I would consider “dysmenorrhea” to be pain during menses (beyond just mild cramps) that is interfering with the patient’s quality of life, or causing them to seek treatment or analgesia. You are correct, everyone’s pain threshold is different. The hormonal IUD can be used to treat dysmenorrhea (whereas the copper IUD might actually make cramping and dysmenorrhea worse).
-Dr. Dervaitis
I just got back from getting my IUD checked from a doctor as during my last period I felt like I could feel something poking out of my cervix which I assumed it was the bottom of the IUD poking out. I do regularly use a menstrual cup but always make sure not to pull the strings but I think it was probably due to pulling down the cup without breaking the suction first.. but its hard when it's super high when your trying to get it out to break the suction first. The doctor ended up taking out my IUD today as she was able to see the bottom of the IUD poking out of my cervix. Get a new one next week! I had the copper IUD.
I also use a mental cup as well and I just got mine today. What I’m planning to do is NOT use the cup for a couple of months until my IUD sets. I read that the first 3-6 months is the highest chance for the IUD to fall out.
This has happened twice to me. First time, the IUD was too small. The second one, everything was fine. I used a cup 4 weeks after insertion and it fell out. I hope third time's the charm 🥴
Hi again Rebecca-
Not sure if you are subscribed, but just wanted to let you know that I’ve now posted a new video that addresses your question (ie- about IUD failure/ pregnancy with IUD in place). It’s a bit long (complex topic) but I hope you find it helpful!
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi Dr. D! Can you please please do a video on how to know when it’s time to remove your IUD? It’s coming up for me and I’ve been have constant pelvic pain and I don’t know if this might be why or if it’s something else. Thank you!
An IUD should be removed at the end of the duration of use (as per product monograph) or when a patient wishes to conceive. If a patient is having problems with bleeding, pain, or other symptoms, they should see their doctor for further investigations (to determine the cause of the symptoms, which may or may not be IUD related). If a patient is having problems related to their IUD, it can be removed at ANY time.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Commonest lol! Havent used or heard that word in a very long while so it was so funny to hear it. Sounds so funny haha
Lol, someone else commented on my use of the word commonest, and I did a whole google search about this issue (heated debate, but apparently both “commonest” and “most common” are acceptable grammar, matter of preference. I wonder if it’s a Canadian thing? ) :) Dr. D
I just got the IUD due to a thickened endometrium as well as very heavy painful periods. My Dr didn't go over how to check strings or anything regarding what you've explained. Thanks to your video I'm well informed so thank you so much!! Do you cover the endometrium topic and what to expect with the Mirena IUD by chance? Also I plan to document my journey before and after the IUD, would it be ok to link your channel as a reference?
Hi Jessie,
Glad you found the video helpful, and yes, feel free to link it as a reference!
I cover thickened endometrium in my video about endometrial hyperplasia (a different topic). It is important to note that normal reference values for endometrial thickness only exist for post menopausal women. In women who are still menstruating, the lining fluctuates with the menstrual cycle, and there are not actually values for what is normal (although radiologist and other health care providers often mistakenly apply post menopausal standards to these women and call the lining “thickened”, there is not actually a number that is “too thick” if the patient is still menstruating).
-Dr. Dervaitis
The day after I had my iud placed for adenomyosis, I found this video while trying to get more informed as the gyno did not explain a thing to me. I was in a lot of pain every day. 7 days later, it is now poking at my cervix. This was not a fun experience.
Ps: Im 24 and have never been pregnant. Issue: bad dysmenorrhea.
I am 34 and am in the same situation other than the poking part. I just found the string thank goodness! But I have had debilitating pain and vomiting for as long as I can remember due to dysmenorrhea. My first 7 days after getting the IUD had me in pain to the point I was scared to move and the heating pad was my best friend. And IBU/Tylenol combo hardly touched the pain. My gyno also didn't explain anything other than it may take a few months to see a difference in periods.
thanks doctor for the information. I got my IUD on June this year. it means 6-7 months ago. and i'm so shooked when i knew my IUD was fall out during my period this month. i didnt feel anything or hurt. just normally.
i'm 20 years old, have never giving birth, have heavy and painfull period.
Hi Getha-
Sorry to hear that... but I hope that at least the video was helpful and gave you some information to help with your future decisions about contraception. Sometimes we don’t find a “reason” for expulsion. Your doctor will of course be able to give you advice about your options.
All the best,
-Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 I just have an IUD a month ago and it moved just finding today it's inside the cervix, can I be pregnant? I went for altrasound today and there is no sign of pregnancy or its too early to see.I just got some back and lower abdomen pains
Heyo! New to your channel, and thanks for this I was freaking out a little.
In April I had to be admitted and got a two unit blood transfusion due to the crazy bleeding I was having smh. Was not fun. So I had my first IUD placed last month and it was great BUT this week I was having a bit of cramping that got a bit uncomfortable and last night after using the bathroom I felt it poke like it was coming out of my cervix (reached in for a string check and my heart sank because yep it was being kicked out of the party.) Honestly it felt like a tampon was in there which shocked me as there was nothing in there, oof. Of course I tried to push it back in but I was thankfully proactive and read online not to do that. Today with a large clot during a bathroom visit it came out with no pain. I felt it but nothing hurt. I have a tampon in with a pad to get the blood in the meantime and I fished it out of the bowl with everything in tact. I see ob tomorrow morning. I’m kinda sad and a bit defeated as I wanted this contraception due to me having had issues with pills and such.
My uterus hates me lol. Hopefully the second one will be nice and stay up there! I don’t wanna have a rerun of what happened in April. I want my life.. couldn’t have one because of heavy periods, it sucks! Thanks for reading and sorry about the TMI, but please keep making vids, this has helped me calm down.
Sorry to hear this, but I’m glad the video was useful. Thank you for watching and for your comment!
-Dr. Dervaitis
Did the second one work out? ♥️🙏
@@freewithnature it did not, but the third one is :)
I am new to your channel. I have hormonal IUD. I do check my strings on monthly basis. This month I been having bleeding and all sudden stops than goes back to bleeding. I check my strings today the strings where extremely long than their supposed to be. I called my obgyn earliest appointment is not until Nov 2nd. The nurse said to check with urgent care. I called urgent care they don't check the strings or any ER. I can literally feel the strings just by sitting. I'm so frustrated. I'm literally going to call on Monday and demand to be seen asap.
Hello Dr. Dervaitis,
I have expelled two copper iuds in a span of three years. Would you recommend to place a third iud? My last iud got expelled after one menstrual period?
Hello-
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet, since I am not your doctor and don’t have all of the necessary information/investigations. I’d recommend that you you see your doctor for further evaluation and advice.
All the best,
-Dr. Dervaitis
I had a check up 2 weeks ago and had an ultrasound and my doctor say that my iud is in the right position and today my iud fall out.
I just got an IUD. I used my menstrual cup, and after that I felt the IUD string was maybe 1 cm longer than before. I don't feel the IUD in my cervix though. Could my IUD be misplaced, is it possible for it to lose its effect if it comes down just 1 cm?
Hi Skye-
The safest thing would be to use back up contraception and to see your doctor to check that the IUD is still in proper position. Although a hormonal IUD may still have some contraceptive benefit even in a lower position, it is not technically “approved” for intracervical use (ie, no guarantee of it’s efficacy if not within the uterine cavity).
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi Dr. D! What is an acceptable amount of movement of the IUD? Since its okay for it to move a bit, how many mm or cm is the average?
Hi-
I can’t really answer this question. There is no standard definition for acceptable “movement”. Exact location of the IUD is dependent on the size of the uterus and the patient’s anatomy, which is variable.
-Dr. Dervaitis
My IUD expelled last night. I want to try again with a different IUD (my period pushed it out). I'm nervous about it, but I will call my OB/GYN. Thanks for the video this was helpful. I had an appointment next Wednesday to check that the IUD was still in place lol, I don't need that apt anymore.
Hi-
Sorry to hear that... but glad that you found the video helpful!👍 Good luck with your next IUD attempt (if that’s what you and your doctor decide...) Thanks for watching!
-Dr. Dervaitis
Did you have the copper IUD?? What did you end up choosing to replace it. Sorry, super personal I know! But I got mine removed bc it moved and I don’t know what to choose now
@@emilyperez053098 I had the copper IUD. I replaced it with the Mirena. I have a blood disorder so I can't use estrogen; my birth control is a little limited. I set an appt with my doctor and spoke really candidly. She was amazing and I have not had any problems with my Mirena.
My dr tried mirena with me with a fibroid on the top of the uterus and irregular spotting bleeding. The entire time I’ve had this I had horrible cramps, very heavy bleeding and took ibuprofen and nothing took the pain away. The second week was the worst pain and starting three days ago I started to feel one string and last night I felt the second string. Today like clockwork the heavy bleeding started at noon and within two hours the iud came out after having clots with a huge decidual cast.
I feel like the failure rate for these things is way higher than people are saying.
For as expensive and painful these things are, they seem to fail alot for people that need it for heavy periods.
The failure rate of the IUD is
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 Hi does the Mirena work hundred percent as a contraceptive?
No, there is no “100%” contraceptive. The chance of pregnancy with Mirena is 2/1000 or 0.2% (For comparison: the chance with the pill is 9%. The chance with condoms is 18%)
-Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 ooh wow. Thank you so much Dr for your response 😊.. wow it seems the best contraceptive is to be abstinent then...
You’re suspicion is probably right. My IUD came out twice!!! My body hasn’t had a chance to even reap the benefits of the IUD.
If you expel a copper IUD, is it worth even trying 1. again, 2. a hormonal IUD, or 3. should you just give up trying and IUD all together? I've tried a copper IUD three times, and two of the times (first and third) were expelled (while I got the second one out due to my own choice after a year), maybe because of my heavy periods. Is it worth trying the hormonal one, as I hear it's smaller?
Hello-
Heavy menstrual bleeding is a risk factor for expulsion. The copper IUD may increase menstrual bleeding, whereas the hormonal IUD usually decreases bleeding. The 19.5 mg hormonal IUD is smaller, but the 52mg is the same size as most copper IUD’s. Talk to your doctor who will help you weigh the pros and cons of considering another IUD in your particular situation (I can’t provide personalized medical advice over the internet).
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi!! I had lots of pain and cramping during my first period post insertion (copper Mona Lisa). I had an ultrasound and the nurse told me it’s low in the endometrial canal, and the strings are hanging out of me completely. Does it need to be removed and reinserted? Or can it be relocated to the right spot in the uterus?
Hi Melanie-
Usually if an IUD is not in the right position (such as the situation you describe) it would require removal and reinsertion of a new IUD.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi Dr.D! I got my Merina IUD back in December, This is my fourth month on it and I have been getting cramps on and off for the past week. Is this just side effects ?
me too
Hi-
Apologies, I seemed to have missed replying to this comment last week.
Most of the cramping usually occurs during the first 4-6 week “adjustment phase”. If you are experiencing new pain that is concerning you, I’d recommend that you see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
(See response to above).
I poped out my cooper IUD by taking out my diva cup too fast, its not that you pull the strings its the syphon effect
Hello-
Unfortunately that can happen, but generally it is safe to use a Diva cup with an IUD. There are several online resources and visuals for tips on how to safely manipulate your Diva cup while using an IUD.
-Dr. Dervaitis
My IUC has fallen out of place I believe as I can feel the strings very low down and the bottom of the mirena is at the cervix, do I need to get instant medical attention or can I wait until Monday for medical help? Thanks
Hi Caitlin-
Since I’m not your actual physician, I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet...
However, to comment generally about a suspected IUD expulsion, I tell my patients to:
-use back up contraception (the IUD is likely not providing adequate contraception when it is out of position)
-watch for any signs of infection (fevers, chills, foul discharge, severe pain).
-see a doctor for assessment (as soon as they are able to, or when an office appointment is feasible with their gynecologist, family doctor, or a walk in clinic).
-Dr. Dervaitis
Is the IUB Ballerine available in Canada? It's gaining some popularity in Europe, but there's not much information about it. It would be great if you share with us your experience with the IUB shall you've placed it on patients :)
To my knowledge, this has not been approved in Canada (and so I don’t have any experience with this contraceptive).
-Dr. Dervaitis
Thanks for the very informative videos. I got an iud about 3-4 weeks ago and went for ultrasound today. The iud is lying low. Is it possible to reposition iud? Or does the iud need to be removed and replaced? Thanks
Hi-
Glad you’re finding the videos helpful!
Great question! Your doctor will guide you through next steps. The answer is “it depends”...
-how “low”
-what kind of IUD
-indication for the IUD (to treat period problems? for contraception? both?)
If it is a hormonal IUD, even if slightly low in the uterus, it may still be functioning properly (this may be less true for the copper IUD if it is low).
If it is a hormonal IUD being only used for period management (eg. patient is not sexually actively, or she or her partner have had a sterilization procedure...) it may still function in a lower position.
However, if your doctor does determine (based on ultrasound and clinical exam) that your IUD is too low, it may require repositioning or a new IUD. (Usually it has been my own practice to insert a new IUD in this situation rather than attempting to reposition).
If there is any question as to whether an IUD is in proper position, it would be best to use back up contraception until the issue is sorted out with your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 Thank you for your prompt response. If a new iud has to be inserted will the hormonal effects change? Since I've had it for a month already, does the body have to adjust to the new iud or is the same as the first time?
(There may still be an “adjustment phase” with the new IUD...)-Dr. D
Just an update for others who may have a similar experience to mine: I did get the iud repositioned which did hurt. An ultrasound confirmed that it was in place. One week later it moved back down. The next day it fell out. So I took that as a sign as my body saying "don't put that back in there". So I have decided to go another route that seems to be working for me so far.
@@venabcute I’m experiencing your exact issue with my Mirena iud laying low, replacement and barely 3 weeks after replacement came out with heavy bleeding 😢not sure of the next steps.
I’m on my second IUD. I check daily and have always felt the strings however first time being sexually active since getting this one and immediately after now I can’t find or feel my strings. Has anyone experienced this? I’m anxious as I’ve never had this before.
Has anyone experience severe pain above the belly button? Could this be away of my body telling to remove it??? It hurts very bad pain all the way to my lower back too.
If there has been expulsion, is it normal protocol to get an ultrasound to fill out perforation? How much of a risk is there for perforation from expulsion?
Expulsion means the IUD has fallen out (vaginally). Perforation means that the uterine measuring device (sound) or the insertion device has caused a hole in the uterus, and if the IUD is deployed, it may go into the abdominal cavity. They are two separate situations. It is not necessary to rule out perforation if there has been an expulsion. Re-watch videos #33 and #24 for further clarification.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I have the iud for 4 years now I'll be removing it next year in April but today I tried to look for the string which is something I never done before but I can't find the strings at all.
See video #13 about IUD Removal for more info on this topic:
czcams.com/video/P3KND_3ysY8/video.html
See also video #27:
czcams.com/video/1QK6CjRdYwk/video.html
Hi this is a specific question but I've had my iud for 1 year and it's now moved low into my cervix. I can feel it about halfway out of my cervix. Can I just pull it out or is there risk of hurting my cervix?
Hello-
Self removal is not generally recommended (although I’ve gotten lots of comments about difficulty accessing care during the pandemic, also viewers without medical insurance, asking about removing their own IUD.)
There is theoretically risk that it might get stuck in the cervical canal, that the threads could pull off, or other difficulties if self removal is attempted. I’d recommend that you see your doctor (and use back up contraception- a low lying IUD may not be providing adequate contraception, especially if it is copper and not hormonal).
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi Dr. I wanna ask if its normal to feel the string of my iud at my cervix? I find it uncomfortable to walk everytime because its poking my cervix. I hope you can answer my question.
Hello-
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet. I’d recommend that you watch video #27. If you are concerned about your IUD strings, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I would like to get my hormonal iud checked but I cant because of coronavirus. My strings are there. But my period has gotten longer from 3 days to 5 days... is that normal? If the strings are present is that a definite assurance that your iud is in place?
Hello-
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet. But GENERALLY speaking:
-a slight lengthening of the menstrual cycle is not necessarily cause for concern
-feeling that the strings are in place (and not feeling longer than previous) is usually a good sign that the IUD is still in proper position
However, as always, I will say that if you are concerned, talk to your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I had mine for 3yrs and I had cramps that also felt like I needed to pee all day and couldn't I also had pressure down below like a needing to push pressure then while on the toilet I felt something pass I looked in toilet and it looked like pinky fleshy color (so I already wiped and dropped toilet paper in the bowl before noticing) when I noticed specs of pink in the bowl then I moved the toilet paper and it looked like a pink fleshy thing .... then I had bright red bleeding after wards not heavy ... now my cramps have stopped 😮💨
I have a question and I’d really like your feedback. I recently found out I was pregnant. But, I “had” and IUD. My OB says the IUD has fallen out and I had an ultrasound that shows it’s not there as well. And they can’t feel my strings. My baby stopped growing at 6 weeks and I had a D&E at 9 weeks. I’ll be having a flat plate X-ray to ensure the IUD is not still in me. But during the surgery my OB said they found nothing. They assume it fell out with my last period which I noticed nothing. Maybe it fell out with a clot. Is there anything I should ask them to check?
Hello-
Sorry to hear that you’re going through this. I’d recommend that you also watch video #33 (about IUD perforation- in it, I discuss the routine investigations that are done when IUD strings are not seen and we need to determine expulsion versus perforation. Flat plate X-ray of the abdomen is routine in this situation).
All the best,
Dr. Dervaitis
Dr. Kristina Dervaitis Thank you so much for your prompt response. I watched video #33 and that really helped so much. My OB hasn’t even given half of the knowledge you shared. She did recently schedule me for a flat plate X-ray so I’m praying they find nothing. But I had no idea about the lacroscopy procedure that would possibly have to happen there after if found. I’m curious why that wasn’t done once they found out the baby had no heart beat. Why wait all this time? I appreciate your feedback and I’m grateful for your videos! Thank you.
Hi Dr. my kyleena dislodged for the 2nd time after having it for over 1.5 yrs from my uterus to my cervix. Not sure how long it was dislodged but This time I didn’t go back to iud and switched immediately to try-cyclen 2 days after before a new cycle began. I started bleeding 4 days after my 1st try-cyclen pill for 7 days. Fiancé & I have had sex maybe 6x since iud was taken from cervix and I started pills. Is it safe to say I will not get pregnant since I haven’t missed any pills and I’m assuming had my first cycle? If so will I not ovulate In 4 days or so as normal due to pills or is it too soon to know? Also I suffer from migraines and told my dr I get Botox injections and take 150 mg topamax for migraines will this affect the estrogen and cause higher changes of pregnancy or no because the mg are low?
Hello-
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet, you’ll have to pose these questions to you own doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I’ve had the Mirena for over 3 years not . My last period was 18 days long which has never happened to me before. Now my period is two weeks late, could this mean that my iud is out of place?
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet. I’d recommend that you see your doctor for further evaluation.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I got an IUD a week ago, and I’m not having cramping, but I have severe discomfort in my cervix or uterus. I called my doctor and the nurse said that this is normal. Everything I’ve read says I would only have pain 1-2 days later. What do you recommend me to do? I don’t know if I should make an appointment with a different doctor for a second opinion?
I literally think I’m going crazy, I can’t stand the pain I’m feeling. I don’t think I can wait 3-6 months to see if the pain goes away 😢
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. If you are concerned about your symptoms, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
What should your first period be like after getting the mirena removed? Should there be blood clots? Should it be more then 2 weeks? What is blood detox? And what is the mirena crash?
Hi Zuly-
Please see my video #7 (“Is This Bleeding Normal?”)- it addresses your question about bleeding/ periods after Mirena insertion.
I have not heard of “blood detox” so cannot comment.
When a Mirena is removed, cycles will go back to what they were previously. If a woman had very heavy or painful cycles that were improved with Mirena, she will notice a difference when the Mirena comes out and she goes back to those heavy/ painful cycles. Otherwise, there is no “crash” in terms of other hormone effects.
-Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 thank you so much I thought that there was something wrong with me I have never had my period this long. And am a little scared. But it's not heavy bleeding it's just taking a longer time.
Hi Doctor. D my IUD fell out 2 days ago and I have been bleeding more than my regular period is that something to worry about? Will I stop bleeding? I have some pain in my lower belly too, help please :(
Same thing to me. I may have to go to the hospital
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet. If you are concerned about the bleeding, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 If you cant advice then turn the comments off!!
Hello...
My IUD string keeps falling out during my period.
Does that mean it has been displaced?
Hello-
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. If you are concerned about the position of your IUD, see your doctor (and use back up contraception in the interim).
-Dr. Dervaitis
I have a beautiful ten year old boy thanks to mirena falling out. Never did find it
Hahahaha congratulations
Hey! Idk if you’re still responding to comments but I’ve had the liletta iud for about 3 months now- I had a check up about a month after to make sure it was in place & it was.
Moving on...
I’ve had a boyfriend for 6 months & he’s clean & I was a virgin, so we weren’t worried about STD’s so therefore we didn’t use a condom on top of the iud. I felt the string before and after sex to make sure all was well and everything was fine- although it’s been about 5 days since I’ve had sex and I check again (cause I’m paranoid) and now the string feels significantly longer, I can’t feel any plastic or anything but I’m worried it wiggled out of place- should I be worried about being pregnant?? The iud has stopped my bleeding completely & ive only had a bit of spotting after sex so I can’t see it being heavy bleeding that’s messing it up. I’m definitely going to get a checkup with my doctor to get it check up on & definitely will be using another form of birth control until then but I just need a little bit of an ease of mind here cause I’m in college and have some midterms I need to finish & i’m too busy freaking out ☠️
Hello-
Yes, still responding to comments! (And I will continue to do so for as long as I can keep up!😊)
I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet (since I am not your physician and don’t have all the relevant information or the ability to examine you...)
I will say that in general:
For patients who are using a hormonal IUD, and especially those not having a menstrual cycle, it would be exceptionally unlikely to get pregnant (still
Oh my goodness thank you so much for the quick response (very appreciated), & you definitely eased my mind! I’ll look to get a check up & get him professionally checked. :)
Much, much, much appreciated!
is it safe to exercise while having iud? thanks for noticing, from phils 🥰
Hello-
That’s funny, I just filmed a “Fast Fact” video on this subject today! (for later release on IG and YT). Spoiler alert: yes! All forms of exercise are safe with the IUD, no restrictions.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Dr. Kristina Dervaitis thanks, doc. i'll wait for ur vids. 🖤
I have experienced an IUD expulsion and although my Dr. wasn't sure why it happened, I'd like to believe that it was because of heavy bleeding because it came out during my period and I saw it while I was in the bath tub...
I have inserted another one and 3 months into it my last period lasted 11 days. That was an irregular period right? I had decided on waiting on seeing how my next period goes before I go see the doctor. Please advise me.
Thank you so much Dr. D for this video ❤
Nthabiseng Makola,
You’re welcome for the video, and thanks again for the suggestion!
Some periods can last longer after an IUD insertion, especially in the first few months. I think your plan to see how the next cycle goes is reasonable.
Take care,
Dr. Dervaitis
hello, I have a question doc, what causes a iud to move ?
First time IUD user, how do you tell if the strings are too long and need to be shortened vs the IUD being out of place?
If you are concerned about the position of your IUD, see your doctor.
Hello, I really don’t know if you’re still relying since this video was posted 2 years ago, I had a copper IUD Inserted and I was with my partner and he could feel it, that night I felt it poking out of my cervix immediately took a plan b and scheduled a visit with my gyno, I got a ultrasound done and they told me it was poking out of my cervix so they removed it and reinserted it, it’s been just a little over 2 weeks and I’m starting to feel random pains in my stomach through the day almost like period cramps, I also noticed sometimes a slight pain when I use the restroom, is this just side effects from the IUD? Or do you think it could possible be messed up again, I did a self examination and I didn’t feel anything poking out my cervix however I do have a heart shaped uterus which I’m scared has caused the IUD to move into a place it isn’t supposed to be. I also have a cyst in my ovary so could that possibly be the cause of my pelvic pain throughout the day? Thank you!
I’m 19 year old female never been pregnant
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. If you’re concerned about your symptoms or the position of your IUD, see your doctor.
Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 thank you I wasn’t asking for full personal sized advice just asking if those symptoms are common or not!
I am planning on getting and IUD at my 6 week postpartum check up and I was wondering if I should use abstinence a month after to prevent PID or expulsion?
Abstinence will not have any impact on PID or expulsion in this case (but would prevent you from having an unplanned pregnancy prior to IUD insertion!)
-Dr. Dervaitis
I meant after insertion sorry I wasn't clear on that.
I usually advise my patients to use back up contraception until I see them for their follow up visit (because of the risk of expulsion/perforation) but absolute abstinence is not necessary. Abstinence will not necessarily decrease infection risk associated with insertion (but if with a new partner, one would need to use condoms for STI prevention). Abstinence will not change the risk of expulsion.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Ok thank you so much. Im glad I found your channel cause I was having some draw backs about the IUD. I live in the US but im glad that i could get a physicians/obgyns point of view.
I went in to get an IUD today but when they went to measure they said they couldn’t get more than 2cm in. I was told I need to come back when I’m on my period when my cervix is softer because I either have a very tight opening or my cervix is at an unusual angle but probably the former. How often does this happen? And what can I do to help ensure that it gets inserted next time? Are IUDs more painful to get when you’re on your period? I thought I’d done a lot of research but hadn’t heard of people needing to go back on their periods. Thank you for making your informative videos!!
Hi-
When an IUD is being inserted, one needs to get past the cervical canal and into the uterine cavity. There is an opening between the cervix and the uterus (the “internal os”) that can sometimes be a bit “tight”, but during the menstrual cycle it is a bit more open due to the flow of menses through the os, and there are other changes to the cervix. It is common practice to suggest trying an insertion during menses (if unable to insert at another time in the menstrual cycle). It is not necessarily more painful to insert during menses. Otherwise, there is not really anything that a patient can “do” to increase the likelihood of successful insertion.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
-Dr. Dervaitis
Dr. Kristina Dervaitis That does help! Thank you for your response and for all that you are doing to help make good information available about topics like this one!
I have the liletta IUD it was placed when I had my son in 2020 they never told me how long it lasted or told me anything about checking it. I have never been able to feel my strings and the first few months I had awful smelling discharge but they would not check it and when I finally got them to try and see me they said my son was 6 months old so they couldn't see me anymore to try elsewhere. Most places told me to go to where I had it put in so I've yet to have a Dr check to see if it is where it should be or tell me when it expires.
Liletta is approved to be used for 6 years. -Dr. D
How many attempts can be made to insert an IUD if it keeps getting expelled or it migrates?
Hello-
Re-attempts at insertion would be at the discretion of your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi I got an iud last year and never gotten my menstrual period till this week and have a lot of cramping do you think my iud came out
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. See your doctor for further evaluation.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I can't seem to find my strings like I could previously ..I did not get the strings cut so that I could monitor these closely...my obgyn doesn't seem concerned bc I'm not having symptoms...should I be more concerned?
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. Talk to your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi so I have the marina coil had it for 3 years, had also of stomach pain and discomfort checked couldn’t find my coil string anywhere phoned doctor she couldn’t find the string they arranged for me to go hospital for w scan day of hospital I could feel the string and was confused and she said it was in place, today I can’t feel the string again but the 3 years I’ve had the coil I’ve never had an issue finding it
Strings can sometimes slip in and out of the cervical canal (they might be visible or palpable at one moment but not the next...) Please see video #13 for more info on this topic.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I have my copper IUD 5 months now and I’ve never been able to feel the strings, i feel fine and I don’t think the IUD had moved but I rang my doctors and she said that they only look at those strings when they are going go take the IUD out, ever time I ring I feel like I’m bothering her 🙈
Please see also video #27 about checking IUD strings. I also discuss the situation where strings are not palpable or visible. If you are concerned about the position of your IUD, see your doctor.
Dr. Dervaitis
a few weeks ago i checked my string and it was all good and in place. yesterday i check (saturday) and it has moved down and i barely had to put my finger in there. and today my string is now hanging out of my body. (sunday) so we cannot call the office until tomorrow, but is this a sign that my iud will fall out by itself?
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. If you are concerned about your IUD positioning, see your doctor (and use back up contraception in the interim).
-Dr. Dervaitis
my iud is partitially sticking out of my cervix. will by doctor take it out or push it back in. I really dont want to have that pain again.
See your doctor (and use back up contraception in the interim). In this situation, usually it is necessary to insert a new IUD.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I don't know if my iud is fall out but I experienced light menstrual period my iud is about a year now but I didn't feel also the string of my iud when I checked it out
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. If you are concerned about the position of your IUD or worried that it might not be in place, use back up contraception and see your doctor for further evaluation.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Dr, please tell me, the solution. .i am using iud since 10 yers but this month my period time got out so am scared what happens...
There is an 8/1000 chance of pregnancy with the copper IUD. If you miss your period and are worried about pregnancy, take a pregnancy test and see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I’m 16 and I just got my IUD (Mirena) two days ago. I had little to no pain getting it inserted and I bled for two days and then it stopped but I have pink/ brown discharge and I’m a little crampy . Is that normal?
Hi Destiny-
Unfortunately I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet. I’d recommend that you watch video #7- “Is This Bleeding Normal” - for further information.
Best wishes,
-Dr. Dervaitis
Destiny DuBose I’ve had this... that usually indicates the end of a menstrual period -
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 If you cant give advice online I suggest you trun the comments off, as people are bound to ask! 🙄
Hello-
This is a (free) public health education service produced without any outside support or funding (no ads, no industry sponsorship). It is not a free medical advice/ consultation service. It would be inappropriate and unethical for me to offer advice on very specific medical situations (without the opportunity to do a history and physical exam, review labs, or imaging).
Regardless, the comment section serves to:
-allow viewers to share their IUD experience
-suggest future video topics
-ask GENERAL IUD questions
-show appreciation for the videos that have helped them
-provide constructive criticism
Hopefully you can find some useful information in one of the 39 videos I have produced and downloaded. Otherwise, please pose your specific personal questions to your own doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I have a question 🙋♀️
I have the iud copper i have tried checking for string but cant feel them im also breastfeeding 🤱 my 1 year old daughter
I did take a pregnancy 🤰 test and it is a faded positive
Is that posible that i am pregnant 🤰
Hello-
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice, and is not a substitute for a pregnancy test. If you are concerned about pregnancy, see your doctor. The failure rate of the copper IUD is 6-8/1000, so there is always a small chance of pregnancy.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hello Dr, please I have a quick question to ask, am so scared i wnat to take off my coil but they told me they can't fine the strings that I have to go for a scan everything is making me so worried. Is there any advice to give me please..
Please see video #13 for more information about IUD removal and “lost strings”.
during sexual intercourse, our partners are not supposed the feel the IUD correct? Not only that I've been feeling cramps, but no menstrual cycle, I decided to feel and I definitely feel mine. like a chunk of it very obivous.
Does iud have side effects? I've been using it since 2018 and sometimes I get abnormal pains.
I discuss side effects in videos #3, #7 and #10.
I cannot give personalized medical advice over the internet. If you are concerned about pain, I’d recommend that you see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 thanks
How can your partner check for the IUD string
Strings of copper iud is poking vagina, and two strings are visible.
Is it normal.
My I iud is half way out due to heavy period how do return it , do need to see a doctor is it still usable.
Based on what you describe, the IUD is likely not functional. Use back up contraception and see your doctor as soon as possible!
-Dr. Dervaitis
IUD was insulted four months ago during Cs and since then I haven't seen my periods and I don't feel the string and feel mere abnormal pain in my lower abdomen. Is it normal?
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. Talk to your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi Dr. D I got Kyleena about a month ago. Ive been spotting on and off but I’ve noticed that I spot everytime after sex. I’ve also noticed that recently sex has started to hurt as well as inserting a tampon. Should I be concerned?
Please see video 7 re: spotting/bleeding. If you are having issues with pain, see your doctor for further evaluation.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I have had a iud for about a year i have always been able to feel the string but in the past week i havent felt it atall i knew i felt it a week ago for sure . I have had a normal exact on time period since i got the iud . Before the iud it was crazy everywhere like not there then there skip a month then i get it twice in a month. Since about 3/4 months ago my periods have been Irregular . I dont want to go to the doctor because my mom will get the bill and know if i am pregnant. Can you help please?
Hi Sara-
Given the situation you describe, really my only advice can be to see your doctor to check that the IUD is still in proper position (and use back up contraception until then). All doctors are required to maintain patient confidentiality, and so no details about the reason for your visit should be contained within billing information. Keep in mind that this does not necessarily mean you are pregnant. (If you are not comfortable disclosing things to your parents, remember they there are lots of different reasons to see a doctor...)
Sometimes the strings can slip into the cervical canal and you might not be able to feel them at that point (even though the IUD is still in proper position and still functioning...) but the only way to know for sure what is going on would be to get things checked out by your doctor (alternatively, are there any public/sexual health clinics near by that you could attend?)
-Dr. Dervaitis
Dr. Kristina Dervaitis thank you sense you said that the reason i am going to the doctor wont be on the bill then i will go see my obgyn.
Idk if this is a dumb question but can the IUD be moved higher up or move out of place during sexual intercourse?
There are no “dumb questions”! 😊
Answer: No- the IUD is designed to stay securely in place (although IUD “migration” can occur rarely, it would not be caused by intercourse).
-Dr. Dervaitis
I’m not sure but I started bleeding a bit when I usually don’t have a period at all with the mirena and felt a change
If you have new bleeding and are concerned about your IUD, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Is there any increased risk of complication for medical termination when pregnant on copper IUD.
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. This is a very specific scenario, and I am not aware of any specific studies that address this. Please note that a pregnancy would usually need to be confirmed as intrauterine (and not tubal/“ectopic”) prior to a medical termination in this scenario (usually via ultrasound).
-Dr. Dervaitis
My Kyleena expelled back in 2018 then I switched to nexplanon. I want to switch back to the IUD but since it expelled, would getting a bigger IUD like mirena lower the risk of expulsion?
I also saw that you said the shape of the uterus can cause expulsion. I have a retroverted uterus, can this increase expulsion again?
No, a retroverted uterus does not predispose to expulsion.
There is not any evidence that I’m aware of to support that a minimally larger IUD would be less likely to expulse (in general, the expulsion rates for Kyleena are similar to that of Mirena) But it’s something to consider, you can discuss this further with your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Im thinking might could've fell out ive been having spotting for 3 days not a period.. just spotting and mild cramping with low back pain
See also video #27 about checking IUD strings. If you are concerned about the position of your IUD, see your doctor (and use back up contraception in the interim).
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi madam I also undergone mirena insertion bt it came out second day itself,now again 15 days back emily iud insertion done,bt today periods n severe cramping
Same here
Hi Dr. D., please talk about women who gets pregnant while using an IUD. Thanks
Hi Rebecca-
That’s a great idea for a video! I’ll definitely do that topic next (make sure you’re subscribed so that you get the alert when the next video is online...)
Thanks for watching!
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hello, can you use menstrual cups or discs with an IUD?
Yes.👍
Hi! My copper IUD expelled two times in a row. I am hypermobile. Do you know if there's a relation between IUD expulsion and hypermobility?? Thanks in advance! :)
I’m not aware of any research that has addressed this question in particular.
Hi I am a hyper person and my IUD gives me strong cramps worse than my natural child birth. It is missing after three months. What's your birth control method now?
@@lemonwang1408 hey there! My current birth control method is abstinence. Still not sure which birth control I should use in the future tho🙁
Hello after coil removal our cycle going to irregular or disturb??
Having a previous IUD should not impact your future menstrual cycle (if someone has irregular cycles or problems with their cycles after an IUD is removed, it is likely unrelated to the IUD and that patient should see their doctor for further evaluation).
-Dr. Dervaitis
My kyleena fell out 2 times in a row. Maybe my cervix is too big after twin pregnancy xD i was so happy to get IUD but now.. i don't know anymore. It is quite costly here to get more..
Hi Vineta-
Sorry to hear this, you must be frustrated. I unfortunately can’t “guess” at the reason without having any of your records or any chance to perform a physical exam. Your doctor I’m sure will talk to you about your options.
-Dr. D
@vineta this happened to me as well. I’m so frustrated!
I have the mirena and when checking the strings I noticed I can feel I good bit of the hard plastic coming out, is this bad and does this mean it’s moved and I’m at risk for pregnancy?
Hello-
You should NOT be able to feel the hard plastic part, so yes, this could mean that the IUD has moved. I’d recommend that you see your doctor, and use back up contraception (an additional method such as condoms) in the interim.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Thank you
Jorie Fowler what are the chances of getting pregnant
Yessenia Ramirez according to my dr. The chances were higher because it was not in the uterus and one could get pregnant.
@@chula_01 I am in this same position please help me. I have this same problem have you got any advice for me did you go to the doctors did they tell you anything?
Hi, I just got my iud a couple days ago & I started feeling a small uncomfortable pinching feeling in my vagina. Can that mean it came out?
Please see video #27 (about checking IUD strings). If you are concerned, use back up contraception and see your doctor for further assessment.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hi,my IUD thread comes out after 4 days of insertion ..what to do now is it a serious matter or its normal nothing to worry??
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. Speak to your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Hello Dr. D ! I got my first IUD back in March it was the skylar. I had my period and pushed it out. My Dr did a few test to make sure everything was okay with my uterus. She then decided to do the Marina IUD last month. I had my period again and this time I can feel both strings sticking out of my vagina. I’m assuming it is out of place again. I wonder what’s wrong with me and wonder why I’m the only person who can’t keep the iud in my body. Do you think it’s worth another try ?
Hi Nyesha-
Sorry to hear this!
Unfortunately, I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet since I am not your physician and don’t have all of the relevant information (or the ability to perform a physical exam.) I’m sure that your doctor will give you the appropriate advice as to next steps. Perhaps if your doctor advises against another IUD, you might consider a transdermal implant like Nexplanon? This option isn’t available in Canada (which is why I haven’t talked much about it on my channel) but I’m not sure if it’s available where you are...
Good luck!
-Dr. D
Hello, my question is that I sometimes feel my strings at the opening of my vagina and causes a little discomfort, so is it okay?
Hello-
Usually the strings are higher up in the vagina and not felt right at the vaginal opening. I can’t give personalized medical advice over the internet (and am not able to examine you to see if the IUD is in proper position...) and so if you’re concerned, you’ll need to see your own doctor to be examined.
-Dr. Dervaitis
Thank you for the advice and I really appreciate what you are doing, it's so helpful for lots of people. Bless you
Just wondering if the person still has heavy bleeding after insert mirena means the IUD maybe not acceptable by the uterus? 😢
The Levonorgestrel IUD is a great option for treating many patients with heavy menstrual bleeding, but it might not be the right option for everyone (about 10% may not see an improvement in bleeding). Obviously, it would depend on the individual patient and persistent bleeding requires investigation. Talk to your doctor.
@@dr.kristinadervaitis789 thank you for your reply. I had booked for check up.
If you see strings outside, should you be worried about that?
Strings should generally not be visible outside of the introitus (the opening of the vagina). If you’re concerned about the position of your IUD, see your doctor.
-Dr. Dervaitis
I used to be able to feel my strings but I checked them today and I can't feel them...should I be worried??
See also video #27. Sometimes it can be difficult to feel the strings (even if they were previously palpable…) However, if there is a change and you are concerned about the position of your IUD, see your doctor (and use back up contraception in the interim).
-Dr. Dervaitis
I am doing workout with iucd since 2 years now it is displaced should I continue workout as I am bleeding since month
This channel is not intended to provide personalized medical advice. Talk to your doctor.