What Are The Possible Complications?

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Women using IUCDs may experience some side effects and potential complications.  These are some which you should be aware of:

• Increased menstrual bleeding: many women experience slightly longer and heavier menstruation.

• Painful periods: menstrual pain is usually increased in the first few cycles, then subsequently improves.

• Intermenstrual spotting: light spotting between periods is fairly common with IUCDs, regardless of type.

• Pelvic infections: IUCDs increase the risk of pelvic infections, especially in the first few months.  See your doctor immediately if you develop any signs of pelvic infection (increased vaginal discharge, lower abdominal pain, together with a fever).

• Pregnancy: as with all contraceptive methods, there is a failure rate.  If you have an IUCD in place, and become pregnant, see your doctor to have the IUCD removed immediately (there is about a 20% risk of abortion by removing the IUCD, but if not removed, the risk of abortion is about 50%).

• Ectopic pregnancy

• Expulsion of the IUCD

• Serious complications immediately following IUCD insertion: vasovagal reaction and perforation of the uterus.

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The article above is meant to provide general information and does not replace a doctor's consultation. 
Please see your doctor for professional advice.