Pregnancy with IUD: Risks, Options, and What to Expect

Question
I've recently found out that I am 10 wks pregnant with an IUD still in place. An ultra sound confirmed that the IUD has moved and is located on the right side of my uterus, at the moment, away from the baby. The doctor was unable to remove the IUD as the string is not visible and its moved further into my uterus. I am waiting to hear back from doctor to discuss what my options are at this point. Needless to say, I am concerned for my own health as well as my unborn child. Have you run across this before? and is there any hope for both of us?

Answer
Dear Monica,

This is always a tricky situation. IUDs are typically about 99% effective as a form of birth control, but this can happen on rare occasions. Since your IUD is "displaced", that may actually be the reason a pregnancy has occurred. If the IUD is left in the uterus it can cause a miscarriage and/or preterm labor. However, removing it also carries a risk of miscarriage. This decision is made on a case by case basis and your doctor will discuss this all in detail with you, I'm sure. But in the majority of cases, it is usually safer to take the IUD out than to leave it in.  

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda