Checking Iud Position

Hi, could some Md answer me(or someone girl that have done): my wife must have a test about position of IUD in the cervix;

how the exam will be?

ultrasound vaginal or abdominal or translabial?

Physical examination?

Will he use speculum?

If the test is only to verify that the IUD is present and has not been expelled, that involves simply visualizing the cervix using a speculum (much like a routine pelvic exam and pap smear). If the IUD retrieval strings are not visible and there is a suspicion the IUD may have perforated the uterus, a sonogram would usually be performed to confirm or rule out this possibility. Typically abdominal imaging will provide an adequate view however a TVU may be required if the uterus is difficult to image. Most IUDs are radiopaque which clearly defines them on an x-ray, a serial pelvic abdominal x-ray would quickly prove the presence of the IUD but is not considered a reliable method of determining the exact position within the uterus.

I absolutely agree with drj58:

first usual gyno exam to see (speculum) and/or feel (bimanual exam) the IUD strings . If yes it's OK else pelvic (transvaginal) ultrasound exam . If it's there it will be removed with a special hook or during an hysteroscopy else it has been expelled or, after a perforation, it has moved in the peritonal cavity . A simple X-ray exam is able to answer this question .

My wife had an ID fitted about eighteen months ago. How often should it be checked?

I'd assume that would be something the Doctor told her when it was inserted. I don't think you should be looking for real medical advice from the group.. get it from her professional Doctor

Curious101

When they checked my IUD the doctor felt my cervix a bit with his fingers and then gave me transvaginal ultrasound.