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Understanding IUDs and Their Impact on Your Period

If you’re considering an intrauterine device (IUD) as a form of birth control, you may be wondering how it will affect your menstrual cycle. IUDs are T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy, and they come in two types: copper and hormonal. While both types are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, they can have different effects on your period.

The Two Types of IUDs

Copper IUDs work by preventing sperm from fertilizing an egg and implanting in the uterine lining. Some women may experience longer and heavier periods with a copper IUD, especially if they switch from hormonal birth control. Temporary side effects may include irregular periods, cramping, lower back pain, and spotting or bleeding between periods. Paragard is the only brand of copper IUD available in the United States.

Hormonal IUDs, on the other hand, release levonorgestrel, a synthetic form of progesterone, into the uterus. This hormone helps prevent pregnancy by thinning the uterine lining and thickening cervical mucus. Hormonal IUDs can be used to alleviate menstrual symptoms like heavy bleeding or long periods because they reduce the amount of uterine lining that needs to be shed. There are four brands of hormonal IUDs available in the United States: Skyla, Kyleena, Liletta, and Mirena.

How IUDs Affect Your Period

The impact of an IUD on your period depends on the type of IUD you use. Copper IUDs may make your periods heavier and longer, especially in the first few months after insertion. Hormonal IUDs, on the other hand, can make your periods lighter and shorter, or even stop them altogether. A 2016 study found that 21 percent of women who had lighter, shorter periods without birth control saw their periods stop altogether after a year of using the Mirena IUD.

What to Expect from a Copper IUD

If you choose a copper IUD, you can expect your periods to be longer and heavier for the first few months after insertion. You may also experience more cramping than usual. However, these symptoms usually subside after six months, and your periods should return to their normal cycle and flow.

What to Expect from a Hormonal IUD

With a hormonal IUD, your periods may be heavier or last longer than usual for the first six months after insertion. About 20 percent of women using a hormonal IUD have periods that last longer than eight days. Spotting is also common during this time. However, after six months, your period should become less frequent and lighter, or it could stop altogether.

Insertion and Effectiveness

IUDs can be inserted at any time, but many doctors prefer to insert them while you’re on your period. This ensures you’re not pregnant and allows for easier insertion. Hormonal IUDs are immediately effective if inserted while you’re on your period, while copper IUDs are immediately effective whenever they’re inserted.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any side effects that last longer than a half hour after insertion, such as dizziness, bleeding, or pain, consult your doctor. You should also see a doctor if you think your body has rejected the IUD, which can cause it to puncture the uterine wall. If you become pregnant while using an IUD, seek medical attention immediately.

Remember

IUDs are an extremely effective and safe form of birth control. While they may have some side effects, they can also provide relief from heavy or long periods. If you have any questions or concerns about IUDs, talk to your doctor, who can help you transition smoothly and safely to this form of birth control.