Q: Doc, I had a copper IUD inserted 5 months ago and after checking up on it we found out that it wasn’t in place. Does it give me a higher chance of being preggy given the position of the IUD? Please notice my concern. Thank you!

A: Hi dear, thanks for writing in.

If indeed, the IUD has shifted and it’s not the string that you feel, you need to see visit your family planning clinic as soon as possible to get that checked out. Remember that if, indeed, the IUD is not properly inserted or has been expelled, you stand the risk of a pregnancy and so you should get this checked out shortly and use some other form of contraception in the meantime.

Generally, there are warning signs to look out for when you have the IUD on. If you experience any of these under-listed symptoms, please see your doctor immediately.

1. Severe vaginal bleeding with at least 2 sanitary towels soaked every hour for 2 or more hours.
2. Smelly vaginal discharge. This could be associated with fever and chills
3. Severe pain in abdomen or pelvis

General information about IUDs:

• They are more than 99% effective

• You and your partner cannot feel the IUD itself either during sexual intercourse or while checking for it. The IUD itself should be firmly housed inside the womb/uterus. If indeed, you can feel it in the vagina, it may have been expelled

• Your partner may however be able to feel the string during sexual intercourse and the string can also be felt if a finger is into the vagina.

• People who have inserted IUDs may feel abdominal cramps or lower back ache for a few weeks after insertion

• Bleeding in between periods may also happen.

• There is a risk of infection if the user of IUD or her sexual partner have other sexual partners.

All the best!