Anxiety Over Liletta IUD Removal and Ultrasound Findings
Greetings, I am a 34-year-old woman who received a Liletta IUD in August 2023. To provide some context: I have a strong desire not to have children and wish to no longer experience menstruation. Until August 18, I had not bled at all, but then I began experiencing intermittent bleeding and passing sizeable clots. My gynecologist advised that I should seek emergency care only if I am filling a pad every hour. Despite enduring intense cramps and irregular bleeding, I was made to wait a week for an appointment and was subsequently referred for an ultrasound, which was conducted another week later. I have now received the ultrasound report indicating the IUD is positioned low, yet I have not heard back from my doctor. My upcoming appointment is on Tuesday, during which she intends to “attempt” the removal of the IUD. I struggle with significant anxiety and past trauma related to IUDs, which makes me apprehensive that my concerns about pain management may not be fully acknowledged. Additionally, I have a fibroid, and I am curious if it might be contributing to the IUD's low position. The ultrasound images do not clarify the exact placement of the IUD for me. Any guidance or experiences you could share regarding a low-lying IUD and the process of removal would be immensely valuable. I also have a consultation scheduled with a fibroid specialist on October 15, but my feelings of dread and uncertainty are overwhelming. Moreover, I’m feeling disheartened because the absence of periods had finally brought me a sense of normalcy. --- **Ultrasound Results** **Ultrasound of the Pelvis (Without Doppler)** **Summary:** - Presence of fibroid in the uterus. - Low-lying IUD observed, with an endometrium that appears heterogeneous. - Normal condition of the adnexa. **Ultrasound Overview (Complete Transabdominal and Transvaginal Without Doppler)** **Reason for Examination:** - Investigation of abnormal uterine bleeding. Evaluation of the IUD and fibroids. **Last Menstrual Period:** 8/26/2025. **Methodology:** - Images of the pelvis were acquired through both transabdominal and transvaginal techniques. **Findings:** 1. **Uterus:** Dimensions are reported as 10.4 cm x 5.4 cm x 6.9 cm, with a volume of 202.90 cm³, positioned anteriorly with a heterogeneous texture in the myometrial layer. - Fibroid identified: 4.6 cm x 4.7 cm x 4.7 cm, located intramurally/subserosally at the right fundal region. 2. **Endometrium:** Thickness measures 1.1 cm, within normal limits but displays heterogeneity with cysts. The low-lying IUD has its tip situated at the level of the uterine body. 3. **Right Ovary:** Dimensions are 3.2 cm x 2.1 cm x 2.7 cm, with a volume of 9.50 cm³, including small peripheral follicles. 4. **Left Ovary:** Measurements are 3.6 cm x 2.9 cm x 3.2 cm, with a volume of 17.49 cm³, also containing small peripheral follicles. 5. **Adnexa/Other Notes:** No additional abnormalities detected. 6. **Free Fluid:** There is no accumulation of free fluid present.
Answers (1)
9/7/2025, 6:50:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are going through a challenging experience with your Liletta IUD, and it's completely understandable to feel anxious given your history and the current situation.
Key Points:
- You're experiencing irregular bleeding and pain, along with concerns about the low position of your IUD and its potential impact on your health.
- The fibroid could affect the IUD's position, but your doctor's upcoming attempts for removal will provide more clarity.
- Your feelings of anxiety, especially related to IUD removal, are valid, and it's important to address them before the procedure.
Explanation: Liletta IUDs can sometimes become displaced, which may lead to irregular bleeding or discomfort. The presence of a fibroid can further complicate the positioning of the IUD. Your ultrasound results indicate a low-lying IUD, and it will be important for your doctor to assess this during removal. It’s also reassuring to note that emergency action is only necessary if you experience severe bleeding.
It's normal to feel anxious about managing pain during the removal process, especially if you've had trauma in the past. Open communication with your healthcare provider about your concerns can lead to a more comfortable experience.
Next Steps:
-
Preparation for Appointment:
- Document Your Symptoms: Write down specific questions or concerns, including pain management for the IUD removal procedure. Be honest about your anxiety and past experiences so your doctor can adjust their approach accordingly.
- Pain Relief Options: Discuss potential methods of pain relief before, during, and after the procedure. It's okay to ask for medications or techniques that could ease your discomfort.
-
Mindfulness Techniques:
- Practice relaxation techniques (like deep breathing or guided imagery) leading up to your appointment to help manage your anxiety.
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Follow-Up:
- After your appointment, keep an eye on your symptoms. If bleeding or pain worsens, it is important to reach out to your healthcare provider promptly.
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Consultation with Fibroid Specialist:
- Prepare questions about how your fibroid might be impacting your menstrual cycle and options available for managing it.
Your upcoming appointments are key to getting the care and support you need. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself, and ensure your concerns are heard. You deserve to feel safe and comfortable throughout this process.
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