OB-GYN 101

This fungus is occasionally identified on Pap smear and for the most part is an incidental finding, posing no threat to the patient.

Its' clinical significance controversial. IUD users sometimes (rarely) develop pelvic abscesses with this organism inside. For that reason, some physicians have recommended removal of the IUD in asymptomatic patients if Actinomyces are present. Others disagree, believing that removal of the IUD in patients with no symptoms is an over-reaction to a very small chance of a problem.