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Do You Ovulate with an IUD?
Taking charge of your reproductive health is a vital aspect of understanding your body and making informed decisions about birth control options. In fact, a recent article in the Journal of the American Medical Association revealed that “approximately 87% of U.S. women use contraception during their lifetime.” You've likely been a part of that impressive statistic at some point in your journey.
With an array of contraceptive methods available, one has become quite a popular choice: intrauterine devices (IUDs). So, let's ensure you're armed with accurate information about what an IUD is, how it influences ovulation, and the possibilities and risks of pregnancy.
What is an IUD?
An IUD, short for intrauterine device, is a highly effective and reversible contraceptive method. It is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUDs available: hormonal and non-hormonal (copper).
Hormonal IUDs release a low dose of progestin into the uterus. This hormone works by thickening cervical mucus making it harder for sperm to reach the egg to help prevent pregnancy.
Non-hormonal or copper IUDs contain no hormones. They are wrapped in a thin copper wire or sleeve which creates an environment that is not so friendly to sperm.
Do you ovulate with an IUD?
You absolutely can ovulate with an IUD! Having an IUD doesn't always interfere with your body's natural ovulation process, but hormone eluting IUDs can suppress ovulation in some women. The IUD provides an additional layer of protection by creating an environment that makes it challenging for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg.
Hormonal IUDs, such as the Mirena or Skyla, release a small amount of progestin hormone into the uterus, which thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. It may also thin the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to implantation and in some cases can suppress ovulation dependent on the dosage of progestins (different than progesterone).
On the other hand, copper IUDs, like Paragard, do not contain hormones. Instead, they release small amounts of copper, which creates an environment that is toxic to sperm and the egg, preventing fertilization.
While the primary mechanism of IUDs is to prevent pregnancy by interfering with fertilization and implantation, it's important to remember that these methods do not always inhibit ovulation. Whether you have a hormonal or non-hormonal IUD, ovulation may often still occur.
Can you get pregnant with an IUD while ovulating?
While the chance of getting pregnant with an IUD are extremely low, it is not impossible. In rare cases, fertilization can occur if sperm successfully bypasses the barriers created by the IUD. However, the failure rate of IUDs is less than 1%, making them one of the most effective contraceptive methods available.
Chances of pregnancy may also increase if the IUD was inserted incorrectly, becomes dislodged, or reaches the end of the recommended lifespan. Regularly checking the strings of your IUD as instructed by your healthcare provider can help you ensure it's in the correct place. If you notice any changes or are unsure, do not hesitate to reach out to your provider – it’s what they’re there for!
Symptoms of pregnancy with an IUD
Detecting pregnancy with an IUD in place can be a bit tricky. They sometimes impact your menstrual cycle, relying solely on missed periods may not be foolproof.
Aside from a missed period, other common signs of pregnancy include breast tenderness, nausea, fatigue, and frequent urination.
If you are an estimated 14 days past ovulation or nearing your predicted period start date, you can absolutely take a pregnancy test. If you suspect you might be pregnant, the best course of action is to consult with your healthcare provider. They can perform the necessary tests to determine if you're pregnant or if there might be another reason for the symptoms you're experiencing.
Potential risks of pregnancy with an IUD
If you do become pregnant with an IUD in place, there is an increased risk of miscarriage, infection, and an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. This is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical attention.
While the overall risk of pregnancy with an IUD is low, paying attention to your body is essential for your reproductive well-being and your overall health. Knowledge is power!
References
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Teal S, Edelman A. Contraception Selection, Effectiveness, and Adverse Effects: A Review. JAMA. 2021 Dec 28;326(24):2507-2518. doi: 10.1001/jama.2021.21392. PMID: 34962522.
Adeyemi-Fowode OA, Bercaw-Pratt JL. Intrauterine Devices: Effective Contraception with Noncontraceptive Benefits for Adolescents. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol. 2019 Sep;32(5S):S2-S6. doi: 10.1016/j.jpag.2019.07.001. PMID: 31585615.
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Neth MR, Thompson MA, Gibson CB, Gullett JP, Pigott DC. Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy in the Presence of an Intrauterine Device. Clin Pract Cases Emerg Med. 2019 Jan 22;3(1):51-54. doi: 10.5811/cpcem.2019.1.41345. PMID: 30775665; PMCID: PMC6366366.
Resta C, Dooley WM, Malligiannis Ntalianis K, Burugapalli S, Hussain M. Ectopic Pregnancy in a Levonogestrel-Releasing Intrauterine Device User: A Case Report. Cureus. 2021 Oct 18;13(10):e18867. doi: 10.7759/cureus.18867. PMID: 34804718; PMCID: PMC8598246.
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