If you have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place for contraception – or if you are considering getting one – you might wonder what is the IUD risk for ectopic pregnancy.
If a pregnancy doesn’t happen, you obviously won’t have an ectopic pregnancy. However, if you do get pregnant while using an IUD, studies show that there is a significantly higher risk that the pregnancy will be ectopic. And an ectopic pregnancy is especially dangerous.
A recent large-scale study shows an increase in ectopic pregnancies in recent years. Use of IUDs has also been increasing. It’s important to know the essential facts about your risks and what you can do for your health and safety.
Let’s look at the IUD risk for ectopic pregnancy.
What is an ectopic pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy is when the fertilized egg implants somewhere outside the inner lining of the uterus. Most cases occur in the fallopian tubes and are sometimes called a tubal pregnancy. It is considered a life-threatening situation. Ectopic pregnancy occurs in about 2% of pregnancies which is 1 in 50.
Women with suspected ectopic pregnancies are advised to seek immediate medical attention. Des Moines University and Health Sciences warns that an untreated ectopic pregnancy can result in “rupture with severe, possibly fatal, hemorrhaging.”
Before you use any IUD, you should be sure to consult your doctor about any conditions you may have.
IUD Risk for Ectopic Pregnancy- Hormonal IUD
There are two main types of IUDs. A hormonal IUD is a T-shaped device inserted into the uterus where it remains for up to three years. Every day, the hormonal IUD releases a hormone that blocks eggs from releasing and thickens mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the ovaries.
About 50% of pregnancies that occur with a hormonal IUD in place are ectopic. That means a pregnancy with a hormonal IUD in place has a 25x greater chance to be ectopic than the average, which is 2%.
The FDA labels for all hormonal IUDs warn that about “half of pregnancies…are ectopic” if the IUD is in place.
It is also important to know that the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies hormonal IUDs as either cancer-causing (Group 1) or possibly cancer-causing (Group 2B).
IUD Risk for Ectopic Pregnancy- Copper IUD
A copper IUD is also a T-shaped device, but contains copper and not hormones. Copper has been shown to block sperm movement and prevent pregnancy.
Studies have shown that if a pregnancy occurs when a copper IUD is in place, the pregnancy has a 15% chance of being ectopic. That is a 7.5x greater risk for an ectopic pregnancy than the general population.
The FDA labels for copper IUDs state that pregnancies that occur with a copper IUD in place are “more likely to be ectopic than a pregnancy in the general population.”
Risk of Ectopic Pregnancy and the Abortion Pill
If you were using an IUD and became pregnant and are considering taking the abortion pill, it’s essential to know the facts. The FDA specifically says the abortion pill “will not be effective to terminate an ectopic pregnancy.”
If you are considering taking the abortion pill, it is crucial to obtain an ultrasound first. An ultrasound can reveal the location of your pregnancy. When an ectopic pregnancy is suspected, you would be advised to seek immediate medical attention.
Next step – How can I tell if my pregnancy is ectopic?
If you are pregnant while using an IUD, it is crucial to obtain an ultrasound first. The ultrasound can reveal the location of your pregnancy. No matter what decision you are planning for your pregnancy, this information is for your health and safety.
At Waterleaf Women’s Center in Aurora, we can provide you with a free pregnancy test and ultrasound. No insurance is required. You deserve compassion and accurate medical information. Our medical professionals can also answer any questions you have about your pregnancy or IUD.
Call or text Waterleaf confidentially today at 630-360-2256.
