An IUD is an intrauterine device that is placed inside the uterus by a medical professional. It is a T-shaped piece of plastic that contains either copper or a synthetic progesterone hormone that prevents pregnancy, explains the American Pregnancy Association. A woman who experiences cramping with an IUD should speak with a health care provider. Some causes of cramping are normal, but severe pain should be evaluated for possible complications.
Following Insertion
Severe pain that develops within a few hours of insertion of an IUD can be a sign of a dangerous infection. The IUD can increase a woman's risk of pelvic inflammatory disease. This an infection that occurs in the uterus, fallopian tubes and other reproductive organs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Some mild to moderate cramping following the procedure is normal, but persistent pain is not. If bleeding occurs with the severe cramping, medical attention is necessary.
Ectopic Pregnancy
BabyCenter.com points out that IUDs are 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy, but in the event that a pregnancy occurs, the likelihood of it being ectopic are greater. An ectopic pregnancy develops when the fertilized egg attaches somewhere other than the uterine lining. This often occurs in one of the fallopian tubes. Symptoms include cramping and spotting. If the egg ruptures away from the place it attached, it can cause internal bleeding and severe pain. If the egg ruptures from a fallopian tube, the woman can experience symptoms of shock. This includes shoulder pain, dizziness, clammy skin, weakness and a racing pulse.
Menstrual Period
The IUD can increase the abdominal cramping a woman experiences during her period. According to the American Pregnancy Association, the copper IUD causes an increase in cramps and bleeding.
Expulsion
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists points out that within the first year, about 5 percent of women who have an IUD will experience expulsion. This occurs when the IUD moves from its place either partially or fully. The side effects of this can be subtle or severe, including abdominal pain, pain during sex, missed period, unusual vaginal discharge, or shortening or movement of the attached string. The IUD should not be felt by the woman or her partner; if it can be, then this is a sign of expulsion.
Perforation
The IUD can move from its place and perforate, or embed itself into the wall of the uterus. This can occur during insertion. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reports that it occurs in only 1 out of every 1,000 insertions.
