Paragard IUD Side Effects: Common Symptoms & When to Worry

Question
I have had the Paragard IUD for a year and a half now. When I received it the nurse and doctor informed me that my periods might get heavier and I might have more painful cramps but it would never stop like it could with the Mirena IUD. For the past 2 1/2 weeks I have been experiencing very painful cramps, sore breasts, light headedness, dizziness, lower back pain, naseua and fluctuating hunger. I originally thought that I was pregnant because the symptoms are similar to my last pregnancy and I am no 6 days late for my period and I have nevr missed one before. Several HPTs and two pegnancy tests from Grady this past Monday have all come back negative. The Blue Zone Doctor said she didn't find anything wrong with me. I want the IUD removed but she says that they cannot do it; I would have to set an appointment with an OBGYN on 2J in order for it to be removed. I'm waiting for my medicaid approval and woke up this morning in tears from the pain. Now I have a dark brown discharge and I know I need to get this IUD removed because I can't bear the side effects but I'm afraid that if I go back to the ER the same thing will happen again and I'll be sent home with the same problem. What can I do? I don't know if I can wait til my medicaid approves. The pain is getting worse everyday and all these other symptoms are just adding wood to the flame.

Answer
Dear Britnie

Although i am not aware of the medical system in the states, my advice is to go to the ER again as soon as you can.
The painful cramps that you have, especially if on one side, with delayed menses for 6 days and the brownish vaginal discharge you noticed can be alarming signs against ectopic pregnancy. This should be excluded best by vaginal ultrasound and Beta-hCG level determination in blood. It is not uncommon for ectopic to occur while an IUD in placed inside the uterus.

Ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition; and if diagnosed, should be dealt with without delay.

Good Luck