Skip to content
womens-health — Science — Health — Food — Health-and-wellness

IUDs and Their Impact on Menstrual Cycle

IUD periods can vary significantly, ranging from lighter, heavier, or irregular. Some individuals may experience spotting, accompanied by less cramping. Hormonal IUDs often lead to the cessation of menstruation.

,   and  Administrator
3 min read
IUD periods can exhibit various changes, including lighter, heavier, or irregular flow. Some...
IUD periods can exhibit various changes, including lighter, heavier, or irregular flow. Some individuals may experience spotting, accompanied by fewer cramps. Hormonal IUDs may lead to the cessation of menstruation.

IUDs and Their Impact on Menstrual Cycle

Your Go-To Guide on IUDs: All the Facts, Questions Answered!

Step into the world of IUDs, the fresh and modern approach to family planning. But are they really the perfect fit for you? Let's get down to the nitty-gritty of things, backed by expert insights from the fabulous OB/Gyn, Dr. Erica Bishop.

Embracing the IUD revolution

IUDs, a long-term solution for birth control, can provide protection for three to 10 years. These tiny T-shaped wonders are inserted by your healthcare provider during a quick doctor's visit.

Many consider IUDs as the fabulous, fashion-forward choice for contraception. But what about their effect on your cycle, and why might your IUD journey take a detour?

A new rhythm in your menstrual dance

IUDs can bring change to the way you've recently rollercoastered through your cycle. From alleviating menstrual cramps to causing spotting, IUDs can trigger a variety of reactions - literally making your period an all-new adventure every month.

Shaking things up

IUDs come in two types:

  1. Hormonal IUDs: Releasing a teeny amount of hormone called levonorgestrel, they thicken cervical mucus and thin your uterine lining[1]. Say goodbye to sperm having a taste of success, and say buh-bye to fertilized eggs embedding comfortably on your uterine wall[1]. Your cycle might adapt in the following ways:
  2. Cramps might ease up
  3. You could experience spotting
  4. Periods could be lighter, heavier, or irregular
  5. You might just skip your period entirely
  6. Nonhormonal IUDs (Copper IUDs): These bear a copper wire instead, causing inflammation in your uterine lining. No pregnant wannabes allowed, as it becomes difficult for fertilized eggs to hang out. The ParaGard IUD is the only non-hormonal one with FDA approval[1].

Both period and IUD: Settle the score

Giving your body three to six months to adjust to an IUD is crucial[1]. During this time, you might face some changes, like increased bleeding, spotting, and cramps, but don’t fret! Symptoms usually improve afterwards[1].

The new dance of (IUD) life

Following the settling-in phase, you may encounter changes in your menstrual flow:

  • Hormonal IUDs can result in lighter, shorter periods[1]
  • Copper IUDs might cause heavy periods in the first year, but after that, periods become more akin to regular ones[1]

Party crashers: Skipped periods

Hormonal IUDs can be the ultimate party pooper for some, causing periods to become infrequent or non-existent, especially with the Mirena or Liletta IUDs[1]. For a lucky bunch, this can be especially beneficial for those suffering from heavy periods, unbearable cramps, and painful conditions such as Endometriosis[2].

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal to not have a period with an IUD?

A hormonal IUD can result in missing periods. The absence of a period doesn't necessarily mean something is amiss[2].

Where does period blood go when there are no periods?

With a hormonal IUD, the uterine lining doesn't thicken, so there's no mess to clean up - period!

Some common irritations

Period cramps are usually less of a drama with hormonal IUDs, as your bleeding is significantly reduced. However, you might run into some trouble with copper IUDs if you also experience heavy periods[3]. Painful cramps may hint that your IUD is not in the right position[3].

What to do when things get dicey

In case you're faced with consistent pain or other issues, reach out to your provider[3]. They may perform an ultrasound to confirm the IUD's location and make an adjustment if necessary.

When to tuck tail and call the doctor

Though IUDs are almost 99% effective, some instances call for the wise words of your healthcare provider[3].

  • Delayed periods with a copper IUD: A pregnancy test and a chat with your provider are in order[3]
  • Signs of pregnancy: Unexplained nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, or persistent concerns warrant reaching out to your provider[3]

The verdict

IUDs can be a safe, reliable, and fashionable choice for family planning, but every body is unique in its needs and responses[2]. Chat with your provider to find the best option for your situation!

Sources

  1. “Birth Control: What is an IUD?” Mayo Clinic, 2021
  2. “Best Birth Control Options: Find Options That Work for You” Healthline, 2022
  3. “IUD (Intrauterine Device) - Performance, Benefits, Side Effects” National Institutes of Health, 2021
  4. To maintain overall health and wellness, it's crucial to consider the impact of IUDs on women's health, including potential changes in menstruation and the possible alleviation of menstrual cramps.
  5. Embracing IUDs as a birth control solution doesn't only involve understanding their science, but also being aware of their effects on women's health, such as changes in periods and the potential for skinning periods entirely with hormonal IUDs.

Read also:

    Related

    Latest