Need help - Infection with IUD?

So I mentioned in another thread that I got the Mirena IUD implanted about 3 weeks or so ago. My doctor said it worked right away so unprotected sex has been a normal thing for me and my husband. I'm suddenly worried that I may have an infection? I get these weird random fevers on and off. I don't have any other symptoms but the fevers are usually at a steady 101 degrees but have been getting higher around 103. They come and go though, just like hot flashes. I'm only 21 though so it couldn't be menopause or anything like that.

I asked a friend who has the Mirena and she said she was pregnant shortly after being implanted with the IUD. They removed it and the egg was removed as well. But then, I heard from my aunt's best friend that she got an infection because the IUD was inserted during her period. Mine was inserted during my period.

I'm really confused and I can't see a doctor until this Friday so I guess I would like others opinions on what to do in the mean time and what this could be. Personal experience would help.

I don't have any weird headaches, but I do have severe cramps that also come and go. The strings are in place and I can't feel anything but string so it's not coming out. less

Hon, please call your doctor TODAY! Does he not have an opening until Friday? Doctors always leave spots open for emergencies, and with a 103 fever, and the severe cramps, this would qualify as an emergency for the GYNs I've worked with.

Please call him right away. You need to be seen, and not wait until Friday. The cramps may be "normal" (although anything that causes that much pain shouldn't be, it is sometimes "expected" with IUDs) the fever is not a normal side effect of the IUD if there is no infection. I certainly have no way of knowing IF it is an infection, and neither does the receptionist or even the doctor over the phone.

IF it is an infection, (and you aren't sure, which is why you need to be seen immediately) you need care immediately. These infections can spread rapidly, so for any reason if you get guff from the receptionist and she won't give you an appointment, demand to speak to the doctor or at least a nurse, (because I guarantee you they have appointments open) if you still can get in, tell her you are on your way to the ER. If she still won't give you an appointment GO to the ER and let them treat you and then make sure your doctor hears you couldn't get an appointment with infection symptoms as soon as you see him. Receptionists are NOT health care professionals, but too often they act like they are.

Good luck and good health. less

Hon, please call your doctor TODAY! Does he not have an opening until Friday? Doctors always leave spots open for emergencies, and with a 103 fever, and the severe cramps, this would qualify as an emergency for the GYNs I've worked with.

Please call him right away. You need to be seen, and not wait until Friday. The cramps may be "normal" (although anything that causes that much pain shouldn't be, it is sometimes "expected" with IUDs) the fever is not a normal side effect of the IUD if there is no infection. I certainly have no way of knowing IF it is an infection, and neither does the receptionist or even the doctor over the phone.

IF it is an infection, (and you aren't sure, which is why you need to be seen immediately) you need care immediately. These infections can spread rapidly, so for any reason if you get guff from the receptionist and she won't give you an appointment, demand to speak to the doctor or at least a nurse, (because I guarantee you they have appointments open) if you still can get in, tell her you are on your way to the ER. If she still won't give you an appointment GO to the ER and let them treat you and then make sure your doctor hears you couldn't get an appointment with infection symptoms as soon as you see him. Receptionists are NOT health care professionals, but too often they act like they are.

Good luck and good health. less

I'm echoing P'Gell. When I had my IUD put in I had the severe cramps, and I shouldn't have gone to the doctor because I didn't have a fever, so I wound up with a clean bill of health and a large bill.

But you have a fever. That's the difference, and they stressed that to me frequently ("If you have so much as a 2 degree fever, come right back in because we don't want you to have an infection!")

I would actually push for a walk-in appointment over an ER appointment, I don't know what your health insurance is like but the ER was definitely a mistake for me. Go to be seen today though. Absolutely do not wait until Friday. The potential ramifications of an infection can be scarring and decreased fertility later, so don't let them put you off! (If it came down to it, I would go to the ER instead of waiting til Friday. But I'm sure if you are persistent you can be seen today by the regular clinic.) less

Let's hope nothing's wrong, but err on the side of caution and treat yourself as if you were ill. Some people "feel fine" during early stages of infection, while others are sick as dogs. A day in bed, with lots of fluids won't hurt you, and if it IS an infection (let's hope it's not) then you will have stalled it by proper treatment.

Can you take some Tylenol (acetaminophen) for the pain and fever? (Generic is fine, just as good with any of these meds.) Some docs allow Motrin or Aleve for the cramps and other don't because they can slightly affect coagulation of the blood in some people. Call your doc's office and see what you can take for pain. Aleve will work the best for IUD cramps (I mean, next to Vicoprofen or an other opiate) but Acetaminophen won't effect clotting. Every doctor has their opinion on this, so I'd ask, so you will be comfortable. But, NO aspirin after IUD insertion! It effects clotting too much. Motrin and Aleve are not as anti-coagulant as aspirin.

The fluids and rest are really important right now. Take care of yourself and let us know how you are after you see the doctor.

Healthy thoughts your way! less