Can an IUD Fall Out?

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are one of the most effective, long-lasting birth control methods. Though you can have an IUD removed, you may also wonder if an IUD can fall out—which it can. You'll need to see a healthcare provider if the device is out of place or goes missing. Read on to learn more.

How Do IUDs Work?

IUDs prevent sperm from getting to the egg and fertilizing it. Progestin-releasing IUDs specifically work by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining. However, the devices do not prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg monthly.

IUDs are also highly effective at preventing pregnancy. Less than one percent of individuals who use them will become pregnant.

This type of birth control falls under long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC). Unlike the case with oral contraceptives, you don't have to remember to take a pill daily or pick up your monthly prescription from the pharmacy. IUDs are effective for three to 10 years and can be removed anytime.

Risks of IUDs

IUDs do have some uncommon risks including:

• The small chance of pregnancy
• A high ectopic pregnancy risk if pregnancy occurs with an IUD
• IUD uterine wall penetration, which requires surgical removal

Another rare risk to note is IUD expulsion, which reportedly happens to 6% of the general population. When expulsion occurs, IUDs may become dislodged and leave the body—meaning IUDs can fall out. With no IUD in place, pregnancy can no longer be prevented.

Will I Know If My IUD Falls Out?

You may not notice if your IUD falls out, but you might experience potential IUD expulsion symptoms like:

• Abdominal pain
• Pelvic pain
• Vaginal bleeding

IUD expulsion is also most likely to happen within the first few months after it's implanted. It may also occur during your period. That means you could find your IUD when changing your menstrual hygiene products like tampons, pads, or menstrual cups.

What To Do If It Falls Out

See a healthcare provider for an IUD check if you:

• Are having abdominal pain, abnormal bleeding (which can also occur during the first few months after having an IUD inserted), or other symptoms that cannot be directly attributed to something else
• Can feel the IUD or feel that it is loose
• Have an IUD and can't find your strings
  

Also, if an IUD is expelled only partially, it may become lodged in the cervix or vaginal canal, which can cause pain, discomfort, or heavy bleeding. Instead of trying to move the device back into place yourself, call a healthcare provider immediately.

Risk Factors

Identified factors for an increased risk of IUDs falling out include:

• Being of a younger age
• Having had four or more children
• Having an IUD placed following a vaginal delivery or abortion
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Morbid obesity, obesity, and overweight
  

How To Check for Your IUD

After an IUD is inserted, see a healthcare provider within two to four weeks to ensure it's still in place. A healthcare provider will feel for the two strings hanging from the bottom of the IUD, through your cervix, and into your vagina. If the strings are in place, so is the device.

You can also check yourself by feeling for these thin strings every month, after your period, or if you feel unusual cramping during your period. You should feel just the strings and not the device itself. Your partner should not be able to feel the device during sex, either. If you can't find the strings, make an appointment with a healthcare provider.

A Quick Review

IUDs are long-lasting, highly effective forms of birth control. Rarely, they can fall out, but you may or may not notice if that happens. Some risk factors for IUD expulsion include heavy menstrual bleeding, being younger, or having an IUD placed after vaginal delivery. If you know your IUD is missing or if you do an IUD check and think it has fallen out, consult a healthcare provider.