BACKGROUND:

Intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) are a popular, reversible and frequently used method of contraception worldwide. They are usually inserted without major setbacks. Uterine perforation is a rare complication that can result in migration of the IUD into the pelvic or abdominal cavity or adjacent structures.

OBJECTIVE:

To enrich the bibliography on the diagnosis of this complication and to favor its clinical treatment, contributing our experience because the IUD is a contraceptive method of widespread use.

CLINICAL CASE:

32-year-old female patient, IUD carrier, 12 weeks pregnant, asymptomatic. The migrated IUD was a finding during routine ultrasound examination. The suspicion was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging which showed the suspected extrauterine location. The device was removed by laparoscopic surgery in the 16th week of pregnancy, without complications. The postoperative course was normal, and at the time of the publication of the report the patient was 30 weeks pregnant.

CONCLUSIONS:

Advances in laparoscopic technique have allowed surgeons to safely retrieve perforated IUDs, even during pregnancy.

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