Intravesical Migration of a Copper Intrauterine Device: A Rare Cause of Chronic Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

Background: Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are widely used and generally safe contraceptive methods. Complications such as uterine perforation and extrauterine migration are rare. Bladder migration is uncommon and is predominantly reported with copper-containing IUDs ^1–4 Case presentation: We report a 46-year-old woman with a history of copper IUD placement three years prior who presented with chronic dysuria, urinary frequency, and suprapubic discomfort for two years. She had undergone laparoscopic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy in the interim. Noncontrast abdominal computed tomography revealed a hyperdense linear structure within the bladder (Fig. 1). Cystoscopy confirmed that the copper IUD was partially embedded in the bladder wall (Fig. 2). Endoscopic removal was performed successfully without complications, and her symptoms resolved (Fig. 3). Conclusions: Although rare, intravesical migration of copper IUDs should be considered in patients with persistent lower urinary tract symptoms. Imaging and cystoscopy are essential for diagnosis, and endoscopic removal provides safe and minimally invasive treatment ^1–7 Trial registration This study does not report results of a clinical trial.