Abstract
Background: Intrauterine devices (IUDs) have become an increasingly popular birth control method due to their long-duration effects and high efficacy. Side effects of IUD use are low, but some women do choose to discontinue use due to pain, bleeding, or malpositioning of devices. The purpose of this case report is to describe physical therapy (PT) management of a patient with pelvic floor muscle dysfunction (PFMD) and pain following placement, use, and removal of an IUD.
Case Description: This case describes the management of a 24-year-old woman referred to PT for high-tone PFMD and pain. PT interventions included patient education, neuromuscular reeducation, therapeutic exercise, biofeedback, manual therapy, and a home exercise program.
Outcomes: Following 8 PT sessions over the course of approximately 3 months, the patient reported decreased pain with tampon use, pelvic examinations, and sexual intercourse. She also demonstrated a significant improvement in perceived disability per outcome measure.
Discussion: A PT program designed to improve pelvic girdle alignment, improve breathing patterns, and decrease pelvic floor muscle hypertonicity may have contributed to a decrease in dyspareunia and an improved tolerance for tampon use within a 3-month time frame. PT is a conservative treatment option for musculoskeletal dysfunction. Further data collection is needed to determine the effect of PT for PFMD in patients with a history of IUD use.
Informed Consent: This case report is exempt from institutional board review and approval.