Intrauterine device migration into the bladder with urolithiasis: A case report

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are the contraceptive method of choice for many women across the globe. Extrauterine migration of IUDs is a rare complication, with the intravesical location and vesical stone formation being an exceptional event.

We report a case of a 39-year-old woman with a history of IUD insertion four years prior to the onset of lower urinary tract symptoms consisting mainly of dysuria and pollakiuria. A migrated device was discovered in the bladder, resulting in stone formation. The bladder stone was successfully treated using laser lithotripsy with an uncomplicated recovery and the resolution of all symptoms at further check-up.

IUD intravesical migration with stone formation around the device is a rare but noteworthy complication of the contraceptive method, especially in the context of recurring urinary tract symptoms. Ultrasonography and standard radiography can be helpful tools in diagnosing device migration. Treatment options can differ, with laser lithotripsy being a minimally invasive and efficient method to treat the resulting calculus around the migrated device and for device extraction. Post-operative follow-up should focus on symptom resolution as well as the presence of fistulae.

While IUDs remain an efficient and accessible method of contraception, complications including device migration into the bladder with or without stone formation should be considered, particularly in the context of recurring lower urinary tract symptoms, and should be treated immediately to avoid further complications.