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Contraception - Management
What should I do if the woman cannot feel the thread(s) of her intrauterine device (IUD)?
- Assume expulsion until proved otherwise. Confirm the location of the intrauterine device (IUD) by history, clinical examination and, as necessary, by ultrasound and X-ray.
- Expelled IUD
- Arrange for the woman to resume regular contraception.
- Consider if emergency contraception is indicated. For further information, see the CKS topic on Contraception - emergency.
- Intrauterine IUD
- The options are conservative management (leaving the IUD where it is), or replacing it.
- Extrauterine IUD or IUD embedded in uterine wall
- Refer for specialist management.
In depth
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