Intrauterine Contraceptive Device Complicated by a Pelvic Abscess: A Case Report

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a form of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC). As with all medical therapies, their use carries several risks and potential adverse effects. For patients who elect to continue IUD use, pain and irregular bleeding are the most commonly reported complications, but more serious and less common complications include expulsion, contraception failure, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and perforation. We report a case where a patient with a history of IUD placement in the immediate postpartum period developed significant complications including multiple intra-abdominal abscesses and pelvic inflammatory disease.

Automated summary

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a form of long-acting reversible contraception that carry risks and potential adverse effects. Common complications include pain and irregular bleeding, while more serious but less frequent complications include expulsion, contraception failure, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and perforation. This case report highlights the development of significant complications, such as multiple intra-abdominal abscesses and PID, in a patient with a history of IUD placement in the immediate postpartum period.