What Happens if You Get Pregnant with an IUD?
What is an IUD?
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped device made of plastic and copper that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. IUDs can provide up to 12 years of protection against pregnancy, and they are one of the most effective forms of birth control available.
What Are the Risks of Getting Pregnant With an IUD?
Although IUDs are very effective at preventing pregnancy, there is still a small risk of getting pregnant with an IUD. This risk is estimated to be around 0.2% per year, which is much lower than other forms of birth control. However, in certain cases, an IUD can become dislodged from the uterus, or it may be expelled from the body, which can increase the risk of pregnancy.
What Are the Symptoms of Pregnancy With an IUD?
The symptoms of pregnancy with an IUD are similar to the symptoms of a normal pregnancy. These may include nausea, breast tenderness, fatigue, and frequent urination. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant.
What Should I Do if I Get Pregnant With an IUD?
If you become pregnant with an IUD, it is important to talk to your doctor right away. Your doctor will be able to assess the risk of a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. If the pregnancy is viable, your doctor can advise you on the best course of action. This may include removing the IUD and continuing with the pregnancy, or having the IUD removed and terminating the pregnancy.
Can an IUD Cause Complications During Pregnancy?
The risk of complications during pregnancy is very low if the IUD is removed in a timely manner. However, if the IUD is not removed, it can increase the risk of infection, preterm labor, and miscarriage. Therefore, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of keeping the IUD in place.
Can an IUD Affect the Baby?
If the pregnancy is viable, the presence of an IUD will not affect the baby's development. However, if the IUD is not removed in a timely manner, it can increase the risk of infection and other complications. Therefore, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of keeping the IUD in place.
What Are the Benefits of Removing the IUD?
Removing the IUD is the safest option if you become pregnant with an IUD. This is because the risk of infection and other complications is significantly decreased. Removing the IUD can also reduce the risk of preterm labor and miscarriage, and it can help to ensure that the pregnancy progresses normally.
Conclusion
Although the risk of getting pregnant with an IUD is very low, it is still possible. If you become pregnant with an IUD, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of keeping the IUD in place. In most cases, it is safest to remove the IUD to reduce the risk of infection and other complications.
