# The Impact of Intrauterine Devices on the Risk of Ureaplasma Species Overgrowth: A Review of the Literature

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how intrauterine devices might increase the risk of Ureaplasma overgrowth, which can lead to infections and complications like infertility or preterm labor.

## Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive literature review on the relationship between IUDs and Ureaplasma spp. overgrowth, highlighting diagnostic and treatment challenges.

## Key findings

- IUDs may increase the risk of Ureaplasma spp. overgrowth and associated infections.
- Ureaplasma overgrowth is linked to complications like pelvic inflammatory disease and preterm labor.
- Screening before IUD insertion and improved diagnostics are needed to mitigate risks.

## Abstract

Ureaplasma species (Ureaplasma spp.) are commensal organisms of the lower urogenital tract, but overgrowth has been associated with vaginal infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and sequelae, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and pregnancy complications such as preterm labor. Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are an effective contraceptive method; however, their use has been linked to an increased risk of urogenital infections, including those involving Ureaplasma spp., which may disseminate and lead to adverse health outcomes. There is still much uncertainty surrounding the connection between Ureaplasma spp. and IUDs, calling for further research to analyze the possible associated adverse effects. This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the relationship between IUDs and the risk of Ureaplasma spp. overgrowth. It addresses factors such as pathogenicity, the connection between IUDs and infection risk, screening before IUD insertion, diagnostic challenges of Ureaplasma spp., treatment options, and implications in fertility and pregnancy.