Radswiki T, Knipe H, Baba Y, et al. Embedded intrauterine contraceptive device. Reference article, Radiopaedia.org (Accessed on 17 Mar 2025) https://doi.org/10.53347/rID-15473
Intrauterine migration of intrauterine contraceptive device
Intrauterine contraceptive device embedding
Embedded IUD
IUCD embedding
IUD embedding
IUD migration into uterus
An embedded intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) is a situation where there is an abnormally-positioned IUCD within the endometrium or myometrium, however, without an extension through the serosa. The intrauterine contraceptive device should be removed in this situation. An intrauterine contraceptive device can become embedded in the wall of the uterus or within the cervix.
Embedment may occur in up to 18% of females with an IUCD and is more common in females with smaller fundal endometrial diameters ref.
Radiographic features
Ultrasound
The intrauterine contraceptive device may appear eccentrically positioned in the endometrial cavity or may appear completely separate and away from the endometrium towards the myometrium.
1. Zakin D, Stern W, Rosenblatt R. Complete and Partial Uterine Perforation and Embedding Following Insertion of Intrauterine Devices. I. Classification, Complications, Mechanism, Incidence, and Missing String. Obstet Gynecol Surv. 1981;36(7):335-53. doi:10.1097/00006254-198107000-00001 - Pubmed
2. Tadesse E & Wamsteker K. Evaluation of 24 Patients with IUD-Related Problems: Hysteroscopic Findings. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 1985;19(1):37-41. doi:10.1016/0028-2243(85)90163-7 - Pubmed
3. Boortz H, Margolis D, Ragavendra N, Patel M, Kadell B. Migration of Intrauterine Devices: Radiologic Findings and Implications for Patient Care. Radiographics. 2012;32(2):335-52. doi:10.1148/rg.322115068 - Pubmed