An intrauterine device, or IUD, is a small, T-shaped contraceptive device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. On ultrasound, IUDs are visible as bright, echogenic structures within the uterine cavity, and their position can be precisely assessed relative to the endometrium and myometrium. Ultrasound is commonly used to confirm correct IUD placement, evaluate patients with symptoms such as pain or bleeding after IUD insertion, and locate a malpositioned or migrated IUD. The two main types, copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs, have slightly different ultrasound appearances, but both are readily identifiable. A correctly positioned IUD should have its arms within the fundal region of the uterus and its stem extending toward the cervix.
Sonography Term