Title: Perforation of the postpartum uterus with an intrauterine contraceptive device.

POPLINE Document Number: 048968

Author(s):

Macfarlan SM

Source citation:

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY, 1966 Jan 15;94(2):283.

Abstract:

A case of perforation of the uterus at the time of insertion of the Birnberg bow IUD in a lactating, amenorrheic woman is presented. The patient, a 25-year-old gravida 2, had the IUD inserted 2 months after delivery. Perforation occurred at the time of insertion, causing a 2 mm puncture wound in the fundus. It appeared that the perforation was caused by the expulsion of the bow from the introducer, not by uterine dilation. Although the patient's uterus appeared grossly normal and well involuted, it was extremely soft. This case raises questions about the timing of the insertion of an IUD in a lactating, amenorrheic woman. It has been commonly assumed that involution requires about 6 weeks and that lactation speeds this process. However, it is recommended that this assumption be reassessed and that insertion of any IUD be delayed until regular menses have been re-established.

Keywords:

Case Studies
IUD, Unmedicated
IUD
Contraception
Family Planning
Postpartum Amenorrhea
Puerperium
Postpartum Women
Insertion
Examinations and Diagnoses
Clinic Activities
Uterine Perforation
Uterine Effects
Genital Effects, Female
Urogenital Effects
Complications
Studies
Research Methodology
Contraceptive Methods
Reproduction
Treatment
Program Activities
Programs
Organization and Administration
Perforations
Diseases
Uterus
Genitalia, Female
Genitalia
Urogenital System
Physiology
Biology