Many women choose an intrauterine device (IUD), commonly referred to as a “coil”, as a form of contraception or to help manage gynaecological symptoms. In most cases, insertion and removal are straightforward procedures. However, we are currently investigating a number of cases where part or all of an IUD appears to have remained inside a patient following attempted removal, leading to years of symptoms, repeated investigations and, in some cases, the need for a hysterectomy.
What Is a Retained IUD?
A retained IUD occurs when a coil is not removed completely, fragments remain within the uterus, or the device becomes embedded in surrounding tissue.
Patients are often told that the coil has been successfully removed and may be completely unaware that part of the device remains inside them. In some cases, the retained device is only discovered many years later during scans, investigations for abnormal bleeding, or at the time of surgery.
What Problems Can a Retained Coil Cause?
Every case is different, but symptoms can include:
- Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain
- Heavy, irregular or prolonged bleeding
- Post-menopausal bleeding
- Bloating and discomfort
- Recurrent infections
- Difficulty carrying out normal daily activities
- Anxiety and distress caused by ongoing unexplained symptoms
Some women undergo multiple scans, hospital appointments and investigations over many years before the true cause of their symptoms is identified.
Can a Retained IUD or Coil Cause Symptoms Years Later?
Yes. In some circumstances, a retained IUD or coil fragment may remain undetected for a prolonged period and may be associated with ongoing symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding or discomfort. If you have experienced persistent unexplained symptoms following IUD removal, it may be appropriate to discuss your symptoms and medical history with a healthcare professional.
Are Healthcare Providers Expected to Detect Retained Devices?
Healthcare providers are generally expected to ensure that a coil has been removed in its entirety and to appropriately investigate ongoing symptoms and abnormal imaging findings.
Where scans repeatedly identify abnormalities, foreign material, calcified structures or unusual findings within the uterus, it may be necessary for further investigations to be undertaken. Delays in diagnosis can result in prolonged symptoms and may make treatment more complicated.
Why Might a Hysterectomy Be Needed?
Unfortunately, some women only discover the problem when the retained device has become embedded within the uterus or has caused long-term inflammation, bleeding or other complications.
In certain circumstances, less invasive procedures may not be possible, and a hysterectomy may ultimately be recommended to remove the retained device and relieve symptoms.
For many women, this can be a life-changing operation with significant physical and psychological consequences.
We Are Investigating a Growing Number of Cases
Our Clinical Negligence team has recently been instructed in a number of cases involving allegations that:
- A coil was not removed completely.
- Patients were incorrectly reassured that no coil remained.
- Abnormal scan findings were not adequately investigated.
- Opportunities to diagnose retained coil fragments were missed.
- Diagnosis was delayed for many years.
- Patients underwent avoidable pain, suffering and invasive surgery, including hysterectomy.
While every case turns on its own facts, the similarities between the cases we are seeing raise important questions about whether some patients may have experienced avoidable delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Can I Claim Compensation For a Retained IUD?
You may wish to seek legal advice if:
- You previously had a coil removed but later discovered that part or all of it remained in place.
- You experienced years of unexplained pelvic pain, bleeding or gynaecological symptoms before a retained coil was identified.
- Scans repeatedly showed abnormalities that were not fully investigated.
- You have been advised that you need, or have undergone, a hysterectomy because of a retained or embedded coil.
- You believe your concerns were not properly investigated despite repeated attendances with symptoms.
We’re here to help
If you believe you may have been affected by a retained coil or delayed diagnosis of a retained IUD, our specialist Clinical Negligence solicitors would be happy to discuss your circumstances in confidence.
We can review your case, obtain your medical records and advise whether there may be grounds for a medical negligence claim. Our Clinical Negligence solicitors support clients across the country, including from our offices in locations such as Telford and Wolverhampton.
To speak to a member of our Clinical Negligence team, contact us today for a free, no-obligation discussion.
Disclaimer
The contents of this blog or any other published by Talbots Law cannot be considered as legal advice. You should take no action without prior consultation with a qualified solicitor or legal professional. The contents of this blog refers to the process in England and Wales.
This blog was written by Rajni Kandola, Senior Associate & Solicitor, in our Dispute Resolution team.