Empowered Self-Monitoring
Understand the difference between manageable adjustment symptoms and serious complications so you can seek timely care and avoid delays in diagnosis.
Patient Safety
Recognize Serious IUD Complications: When to Contact Your Provider Immediately
Learn to distinguish between normal IUD side effects and warning signs that require urgent medical evaluation, including infection, expulsion, perforation, and ectopic pregnancy risk.
Request an Appointment →What to Expect
- ✓Uterine perforation (rare) occurs when an IUD pierces the uterine wall and may require imaging and surgical removal
- ✓Expulsion happens when the IUD is pushed out of the uterus, reducing contraceptive effectiveness; a backup method is needed until it is replaced
- ✓Infection risk is highest in the first few weeks after insertion; fever, pain and unusual discharge warrant prompt evaluation
- ✓Ectopic pregnancy is rare but possible with any contraceptive; severe one-sided abdominal pain, abnormal bleeding and dizziness require emergency care
- ✓A device that has moved toward the cervix can cause pain, bleeding or loss of contraceptive effectiveness
- ✓Know the warning signs: for severe symptoms go to the emergency room; for other concerns call (713) 485-4302, where calls are answered around the clock and the office follows up the next business day
Emergency Symptoms
Severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever or fainting: go to the ER or call 911
Risk Screening Before Insertion
Your provider reviews your risk factors before placement
Benefits & Outcomes
Clear Escalation Path
For sudden severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever or fainting, go to the emergency room or call 911. For other concerns, call our office; calls are answered around the clock and the office follows up on the next business day.
Transparent Risk Communication
At your pre-insertion visit, your provider explains complication rates, risk factors and exactly which symptoms need immediate attention so you start IUD use informed and confident.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the warning signs of uterine perforation?▾
Sudden severe abdominal pain, abnormal bleeding, inability to locate the IUD strings and signs of infection (fever, chills) can indicate perforation. Seek care right away: ultrasound or other imaging can confirm the device position.
How do I know if my IUD has been expelled?▾
Signs of expulsion include missing strings, a hard object protruding from the vagina, sudden severe cramping, or a return of normal periods if you previously had none. Check for strings after your first period and any time you suspect expulsion, use a backup method, and contact our office for confirmation.
Can an IUD cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)?▾
PID risk is highest in the first few weeks after insertion, especially with a history of STIs. Fever, pelvic pain, abnormal discharge and painful intercourse are warning signs. Seek care promptly; early antibiotics prevent serious complications.
What is the risk of ectopic pregnancy with an IUD?▾
Pregnancy with an IUD in place is rare, but when it occurs the chance that it is ectopic is higher. Severe one-sided abdominal pain, abnormal bleeding and dizziness in early pregnancy warrant emergency evaluation. If you suspect pregnancy while using an IUD, seek care right away.
Can an IUD damage my uterus?▾
Serious damage is rare when an IUD is placed by an experienced provider. Uterine perforation is uncommon, on the order of 1 in 1,000 insertions in published studies. Careful technique and patient selection minimize the risk, and when perforation occurs it is usually detected and managed without lasting harm.
When should I seek emergency care for IUD-related symptoms?▾
Go to the emergency room for sudden severe abdominal or pelvic pain, heavy vaginal bleeding (soaking pads), fever over 101°F, severe dizziness or fainting, signs of shock (rapid heartbeat, pale skin), or severe bleeding with no other explanation.
Related Topics
Procedure
IUD Insertion & Removal
Insertion technique and complication prevention in our office.
Related Condition
Pelvic Pain Evaluation
If you develop IUD-related pelvic pain, a diagnostic evaluation identifies the cause and guides treatment.
Preventive Care
STD/STI Testing
Screening before IUD insertion lowers PID risk; testing and treatment are available.
Ready to Get Started?
Call (713) 485-4302 or send an appointment request, and our office will follow up.
Request an Appointment