Low-lying or malpositioned intrauterine devices and systems

Abstract

Introduction: The intrauterine device (IUD) and intrauterine system (IUS) are widely used forms of long-acting reversible contraception. Occasionally, IUD/IUS users have an ultrasound scan that shows a low-lying IUD/IUS or an IUD/IUS is found incidentally on scan to be low-lying within the uterus. No formal guidelines exist on the clinical implications of this scenario or the most appropriate management. We report here on a systematic review of the literature.

Methods: A search of the online database PubMed was performed to identify articles relating to low-lying or malpositioned IUD/IUS.

Results: A total of 1101 articles was identified, and 15 were determined to be relevant to the research question.

Discussion: There is little published evidence to determine the nature and extent of the clinical relevance of a low-lying IUD. We recommend individualised management of these women, with particular caution in younger women and those with a history of previous IUD/IUS expulsion. Consideration may be given to attempting to readjust the IUD/IUS position, but if removal is performed, immediate replacement is essential if provision of alternative effective contraception has not been established.

Keywords: Family Planning Service Provision; Intrauterine Devices; Intrauterine Systems.