Why Can't I Reinsert and Reuse My Copper IUD (Paragard)

**cbuon** · 07-06-2011 02:18 PM

I want to know if there are any REAL health implications involved with reinserting an expelled Paragard IUD. I've had my IUD for about 4 years and it's been really great.... no complications or pain. Last month I removed it because my husband and I were thinking about conceiving but since then, some situations have come up and we may have to put off having children for another year or two.

I wanted to have the IUD put back in so I contacted Planned Parenthood and they said they cannot reinsert the one I have and would charge $400 just for a new IUD (not including the insertion fee and office visit). I've read conflicting things online - all of the official Paragard literature says you should not reinsert an expelled IUD but I'm skeptical that this is just their way of making money by forcing you to buy new ones. I've read a few medical studies where they tested the effectiveness of reinserted IUD's after their official 10 year expiration mark so I figure, if they're willing to perform tests like that, there can't be any harm in putting a copper IUD back in, right?

So my question again - is there something that happens to the copper when its outside of the body that would render it harmful once its re-inserted? What is the REAL reason Paragard advises against this? I know I'll be hard-pressed to find a doctor or clinic that will reinsert the one I have due to liability issues, but I'd like to know the truth. I have this device that is apparently worth $400 and yet I can't use it. Any honest answer or insight is greatly appreciated.

**KMonte85** · 07-06-2011 02:49 PM

I don't believe your doctors are refusing because of the copper being harmed outside your body. Moreso, I believe one of the MAIN reasons they will not re-insert an IUD that has been laying around, outside of your body, in the elements, is the hightened risk of infection should you have it reinserted.

If there is any bacteria on that IUD which is very likely (as it is no longer the sterile medical device it was in the Dr.'s office), there is a much higher risk of getting that bacteria in your uterus, which could easily become a tubal infection which can lead to many medical problems, most severe being infertility and even death if not treated correctly right away.

Your doctors would be putting your health at risk and doing you a DISSERVICE if they reinserted your unsterile, USED IUD.

**kira** · 07-06-2011 03:50 PM

They will sometimes reinsert a mirena IUD that was partially expelled and then fully removed in the office, my doctor asked if I wanted mine put back in after it got stuck in my cervix and she pulled it out, but I can see why they wouldn't insert an IUD that had been sitting around. It's about like reusing a needle. Who knows what all has grown on it since they acquire some body tissue while inside and then sitting around outside with no protection from bacteria.

**Hopeless Dork** · 07-06-2011 05:42 PM

Are you willing to gamble with the risk of infection, possible ineffectiveness of the device, a chance of future infertility, and worse ? Not worth it, Kira. If the 400 is too steep right now, just use condoms... nothing, not even saving 400 bucks is worth the risk to your health.