Can pregnancy with a copper IUD be ectopic?

Question

Hello doctor,

I got a copper IUD inserted eight months ago after my second baby, and an ultrasound confirmed it was placed correctly. This month, my period is late, and yesterday I got a faint positive pregnancy test along with right-sided pelvic pain and light spotting.

Can an IUD at 25 cause an ectopic pregnancy even when placed correctly? I had chlamydia once years ago, so now I am scared that maybe my tubes were already damaged. The pain is not severe yet, but after reading, I am panicking about rupture and internal bleeding before my appointment tomorrow.

Please guide.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am sorry to hear about your discomfort.

While it is uncommon to become pregnant with a copper IUD (intrauterine device) in place, doctors must rule out an ectopic pregnancy. This occurs when a pregnancy develops outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube.

Your symptoms, which include a positive pregnancy test, one-sided pelvic pain, spotting, and the presence of an IUD, are significant and should be taken seriously, especially given your history of chlamydia infection, which can sometimes increase the risk of tubal damage.

However, having these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have an ectopic pregnancy.

Many individuals with similar experiences may end up having a very early normal pregnancy, a miscarriage, or another non-dangerous reason for their pain. Nonetheless, an ectopic pregnancy requires prompt evaluation since it can become dangerous if a tube ruptures.

During your visit, your doctor will likely conduct blood tests to measure pregnancy hormone levels and perform a pelvic ultrasound to determine the location of the pregnancy and the position of the IUD.

If you experience any severe or worsening pain, dizziness, fainting, shoulder pain, heavy bleeding, or significant weakness, please seek emergency care immediately, as these could be signs of internal bleeding.

I hope you find this information helpful.

Thank you.