Some adverse effects of copper-IUD.

Perforations and extraction problems in some 30 700 women wearing a copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD), either a Cu-7 or Cu-T have been studied. Perforations were very rare. Judging from the literature and the present investigation, in cases of perforation the Cu-7-IUD has a tendency to penetrate the uterine wall and the Cu-T-IUD the cervical wall. Retracted and detached strings were observed somewhat more often in women wearing Cu-7-IUD's. The number of such cases was, however, not large enough to warrant a statistical comparison. The cause of retention, investigative procedures and recommendations in the removal of lodged Cu-IUD's are discussed.