When contraception goes rogue: Bladder migration of an intrauterine device presenting as refractory cystitis

Abstract

Intrauterine device (IUD) migration into the urinary bladder is a rare but significant complication that may mimic chronic cystitis or recurrent urinary tract infections due to nonspecific symptoms such as dysuria, hematuria, suprapubic pain. A 31-year-old multiparous woman presented with persistent lower abdominal pain, fatigue, and urinary symptoms. Imaging and cystoscopy revealed a migrated IUD embedded in the bladder wall. Transurethral removal failed due to fibrosis, but laparoscopic removal was successful, with complete symptom resolution. This case underscores the need to consider IUD migration in women with recurrent urinary symptoms and highlights the value of early imaging and minimally invasive treatment.