Patient's question:
I have an intrauterine device (IUD) and feel like I might be pregnant this month. What is the risk of ectopic pregnancy?Doctor's answer:
There is a certain chance of developing an ectopic pregnancy. Under normal circumstances, during the ovulation period, if sexual intercourse occurs, sperm and eggs fuse to form a zygote. The zygote then travels for a period of time and implants in a suitable position within the uterine cavity for growth and development. If there is an intrauterine device (IUD) in the uterus, it generally needs to be dislocated for pregnancy to occur. The presence of an IUD in the uterine cavity makes it difficult for the zygote to implant in the normal position, increasing the risk of ectopic pregnancy.