Having an intrauterine device (IUD) can bring about a new awareness of one’s body, and it is understandable to have questions if you feel its presence. This article aims to clarify common sensations you might experience, identify situations that warrant medical attention, and outline the steps you can take to address your concerns.
Common Sensations
It is possible to experience subtle sensations related to your IUD that are generally not a cause for concern. Some individuals report a mild, transient pressure or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen, particularly during uterine contractions or during their menstrual period. The uterus is a muscular organ that undergoes natural movements, and these movements can occasionally make the presence of the IUD more noticeable.
Many people are also able to feel the IUD’s strings, which extend into the upper part of the vagina. These soft, thin threads are typically trimmed to a length of about one to two inches after IUD insertion. Feeling these strings can be a normal part of monitoring your IUD and does not indicate a problem with the device itself. These sensations are usually subtle and do not interfere with daily activities.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Certain sensations or symptoms warrant prompt medical evaluation to ensure the IUD remains properly positioned and that no complications have arisen. Sharp, persistent abdominal pain or cramping that is more severe than typical menstrual discomfort should be a cause for concern. A sudden onset of heavy bleeding, or bleeding that is significantly different from your usual menstrual pattern, also indicates a need for medical review. These changes could suggest the IUD has shifted from its correct position within the uterus.
You should also seek medical attention if you can no longer feel your IUD strings, or if they feel significantly longer or shorter than before. Feeling a hard plastic or metal part of the IUD itself at your cervix or in your vagina is a strong indication of partial expulsion. Any signs of infection, such as a fever, chills, unusual vaginal discharge with a foul odor, or persistent pelvic tenderness, also require immediate medical assessment. These symptoms could point to complications like IUD displacement, partial expulsion, or uterine perforation.
Possible Reasons for Feeling Your IUD
Feeling your IUD can stem from several different reasons, ranging from normal bodily awareness to potential device displacement. Sometimes, it is simply a heightened sensitivity to the presence of the foreign object within the uterus, especially after recent insertion as the body adjusts. This type of sensation is typically mild and temporary.
In some instances, the IUD may have slightly shifted from its optimal position within the uterine cavity. While minor shifts may not always be problematic, a significant change in position can lead to increased sensations. Partial expulsion occurs when the IUD begins to move out of the uterus, often with symptoms like increased cramping or bleeding. Though rare, uterine perforation can also cause new or worsening pain and unusual sensations.
Steps to Take
If you are experiencing new or concerning sensations related to your IUD, you may perform a gentle self-check to see if you can feel your IUD strings and if their length seems consistent. However, do not attempt to pull on the strings or try to adjust the IUD yourself, as this could cause harm or displace the device further. Observe the sensation to determine if it is transient or persistent, and note any accompanying symptoms like pain or unusual bleeding.
The most important step is to contact your healthcare provider promptly if you have any concerns about feeling your IUD, especially if you experience any of the warning signs described earlier. Your provider will be able to perform a pelvic examination to visually inspect the cervix and IUD strings. They may also conduct a transvaginal ultrasound to confirm its correct placement. This professional assessment ensures your IUD is functioning effectively and safely.