[Unwanted pregnancy after removal of the IUD]

Four cases of unwanted pregnancy occurring in the same cycle as removal of an IUD are presented. The duration of ovum transport from the Fallopian tube into the uterine cavity, survival of spermatozoa in the female genital tract and timing of ovulation, which may be delayed in women with IUDs are variables which influence the probability of pregnancy and should be taken into consideration when removing an IUD. Unless pregnancy is desired, it is recommended when possible not to remove an IUD after the ninth day of the menstrual cycle unless another contraceptive method has been initiated.