Gonorrhoea and the intrauterine contraceptive device

Though pelvic infection in women fitted with an intrauterine device (I.U.C.D.) is reported to be rare, three cases, gonococcal in origin, are presented. These case histories suggest that the presence of an I.U.C.D. increases the severity of gonorrhoea, while removal of the device before antibiotic therapy is probably essential for proper management. The literature and our experience suggest that where pelvic infection and an I.U.C.D. coexist gonorrhoea should be considered a likely diagnosis.