Abstract:

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are frequently used, reversible and feasible contraception method. Wepresent a case involving a serious complication caused by anIUD and discuss this case with reference to the published literature. A 30 year-old woman with 3 parities with a copper IUD for 3 years was evaluated for anacute abdomen, vaginal dischargeand a38.8°C fever.Laboratory tests revealed elevation of white blood count and C-reactive protein (CRP). Radiologically, the IUD was seen to be localized outside the borders of the endometrial cavity, and bilateral complicated hyperintense pelvic masses were evident. Subsequently, the patient underwent a diagnostic laparotomy. A frozen pelvis caused by a pelvic abscess was revealed. The underlying reason for this was the IUD that had migrated to the rectosigmoid junction, resulting in a perforation. Subtotal hysterectomy, left salphingooophorectomy and loop colostomy were performed.After 10 days of follow-up, the patient was discharged without any further complication. IUDs represent a easily applicable contraceptive method with low complication rates. However, over the long term, an IUD may cause inflammatory disorders and disturb the integrity of the uterus. Migration into the abdominal cavity is a serious IUD complication that physicians should be aware of, in patients with abdominal pain.

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