Copper IUD and BV: Is There a Connection?

Hi Aunty Vadge!

I have a question about the copper IUD and recurrent bacterial vaginosis. I got the copper IUD in January of this year, and I have had persistent BV since then. I got it in February and treated it with antibiotics.

But it came back in April, and I tried to treat it using tea tree oil and coconut oil suppositories. It never really went away, and got worse enough that by October I treated it with antibiotics again.

Well, now it’s back. Before getting the copper IUD I have had maybe one bacterial vaginosis infection in my life.

I am wondering if there is a correlation here? I just found this website, which has been amazing, and bought Killing BV. I will read it and try to implement the treatments. However, I am afraid that my IUD has caused a more permanent vaginal dysbiosis that can only be remedied by removal.

Please let me know what you would suggest, and if my treatments should be different because of this situation.

Thank you so much,
G

Age: 26
Country: USA

Dear G,

There is a link between intrauterine devices (IUDs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV can be persistent when an IUD is present since the device’s smooth surface offers a good base for the bacterial biofilm.

This biofilm then acts as a reservoir of bacteria in your uterus, meaning your pathogens never really go away and only planktonic bacteria are treated with the antibiotics. Antibiotics cannot remove biofilms, so offer only symptom relief until next time.

There is no reason why you can’t try treatments and successfully treat your BV however, just be aware that the IUD is likely heavily contributing to your ‘recurrences’.

Many women have successfully treated their BV with an IUD in, but if you’re really struggling after multiple failed treatments, it would be smart to get the IUD out, treat your vagina and have three months symptom-free, then get a new IUD put in. Start fresh.

When you’re choosing treatments, I’d suggest starting with the lactulose and probiotic treatment because you want to rebuild your healthy biofilms – which means kicking the pathogens and their biofilms off your IUD.

You want a healthy lactobacilli biofilm on your IUD. Once this is in place, you’ll find your BV stops appearing and you get to keep your IUD.

It sounds easy in theory, and it may well be that simple in practice, but just keep in mind that this doesn’t always go according to plan! Keep in touch via the support section – you can get advice anytime.