Expert: Norman Solberg - 4/6/2009

Question
Hi, I've had the copper IUD for almost a year and have had no problems with it. Lately I've had all the symptoms of being pregnant but i don't know if i could be or its just the IUD. Also I've been feeling like its kind of poking me at times and then I'll be fine. So should I go to the doctors or is it normal? Can it be that I'm pregnant? And if I am can that effect my baby?

Answer
If you've missed a period, I would definitely go see your doctor soon.  Usually you won't have symptoms of pregnancy until you've missed a period.  If you are pregnant, it's strongly recommended that the IUD be removed soon, as it can produce an infected miscarriage, which can be serious.  If the feeling like it's poking you are very bothersome, I would also go to have that checked.  Usually if the IUD is inside where it belongs, you shouldn't have any poking from it.  I suspect it's not the IUD, but sometimes it's better to get checked.  Best wishes.