The IUD insertion is the top choice when it comes to long-term contraceptive methods. Types of IUDs such as Skyla, Liletta, Kyleena, and Mirena can control pregnancies up to 3, 4,5, and 6 years, respectively.
No doubt, IUDs are an effective and safe method of controlling birth, but they also come with some side effects. Such as irregular spotting and bleeding is the most common side effect of IUDs. But, when do you get your first period after IUD insertion? And what to expect after IUD?
Periods can be heavier after IUD insertion. Moreover, they last longer than usual. Also, they start earlier than expected. Some women’s periods begin right after they receive an IUD.
Indeed, some days or even months can be challenging for vaginal flow or having sex, but you can normalize things. I’ve enlisted all the important things you should know about IUDs and periods in this guide. As well, what to expect and do after IUD. So, let’s dive right in:
Table of Content
A Brief Overview of IUD
IUD stands for “intrauterine device”. It is a T-shaped device implanted in the uterus to prevent egg fertilization and embryo implantation.
The device releases levonorgestrel hormone, thickening the cervical fluid and affecting embryo movement and strength. Further, it changes the uterus lining, which prevents the embryo from implanting if it has been fertilized.
They are almost as effective as surgical sterilization for preventing pregnancy. Current IUDs are highly effective, cost-effective, safe, and easy to use.
First Period After IUD Insertion
The menstrual cycle after IUD insertion is irregular compared to the regular cycle. Typically, it causes little cramping, pain, and light spotting after insertion. Indeed, it is quite normal. But, your first period after IUD insertion may not be regular.
Occasionally, periods can be heavier after IUD insertion. Moreover, they last longer than usual. Also, they start earlier than expected. Some women’s periods begin right after they receive an IUD.
On the other hand, some women stop having periods for months following IUD implantation. It depends on the type of IUD and the medication!
In short, you should expect the unexpected when it comes to your menstrual cycle for the first few months after getting an IUD. Your periods may not be as regular as they once were.
In all likelihood, you will notice spotting between periods or heavier-than-average periods. The length of your cycles may also temporarily expand. But, eventually, it will get back on track.
After your first period, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor to ensure your IUD insertion is still fine (usually within 4 to 6 weeks of IUD implantation).
Is It Normal to Get Your Period Right After IUD Insertion?
As I stated earlier, you should be prepared for unusual spotting and irregular bleeding after IUD Indeed, such bleeding is likely to happen.
After getting an IUD, some women feel fine and go on with their lives. Others may find it uncomfortable and irritating.
As for periods after an IUD, they are normal as well. Blood flow may differ from normal. But, you may get long bleeding days. To prevent discomfort, doctors can prescribe naproxen and ibuprofen.
But if your periods’ pain is severe with heavier blood flow, you should consult your doctor immediately. However, your periods will be normalized once your IUD side effects subside. It can take 6 months to 1 year.
How Long Does It Take to Feel Normal After IUD?
Your comfort level after IUD insertion will greatly depend on what type of device you used and how many precautionary measures you took.
Typically, your uterus becomes normal after being implanted with a device. Also, cramping and pain should subside within a week to a few months.
However, if you get hormonal IUDs such as Kyleena, Mirena, Lilette, and Skyla, you have less cramping and period complications. Moreover, their cramps will dissipate within two to three days.
As for monthly flow, they may get lighter with time and cramp less. In spite of this, you may still experience irregular periods that may return to normal after removing your IUD.
What to Expect After IUD Insertion?
After getting an IUD, some women feel fine and go on with their lives. Others may find it uncomfortable and irritating. But, you need to take it easy. You may treat a little cramp or backache with OTC medicine, heat pads, and rest.
After placement of an IUD, the following outcomes are expected:
- It is common to experience uterine cramps after IUD insertion. Therefore, heating pads, Advil (ibuprofen), or Tylenol (acetaminophen) can help relieve discomfort. When cramping is unbearable and is not relieved by medication, you should contact the clinic.
- Hormonal IUDs may cause light or no periods. However, with a non-hormonal (copper) IUD, you may have a heavier and more prolonged flow.
- It is normal to experience irregular bleeding in the first few months after IUD placement. In some cases, women may experience irregular bleeding for months. Nevertheless, if the flow is heavy, you should consult your female physician.
- IUDs can’t prevent you from sexually transmitted diseases. You may use protective sheaths for safe sex.
- After IUD insertion, you can use vaginal products such as tampons and cups.
- You should check your IUD string in the first week after insertion, every month after that. You should also check it after your period. Visit the clinic regularly to make sure the IUD is still in place.
- You may notice a string of IUDs at the top of the vagina. Don’t tug the IUD string; you may displace the device. You may feel the string by putting your fingers in your vagina.
- Although there are few chances of IUD displacement, there are more chances during the first 3 months of insertion. IUD are more likely to fall out during the monthly period. Therefore, check your pads, tampons, and cups to see if the contraceptive device is slipped out.
- It is better to wait 2 weeks before sexual intercourse to avoid complications after IUD insertion.
- Levonorgestrel-releasing IUDs provide reliable contraception for 3 to 6 years.
- Non-hormonal IUDs yield reliable contraception up to a decade.
How Do You Know If Something Is Wrong With Your IUD?
Your IUD may miss its place and slip out of the uterus in rare cases. When this happens, you are affected by the following:
- Your IUD may fall out of your uterus or vagina.
- The IUD hasn’t been placed correctly, or it’s embedded in the uterus wall.
- Perhaps your IUD cut your uterus and entered your abdominal cavity or peritoneum.
If your IUD misplaced its place, you can get a uterus infection or get pregnant.
You may notice an IUD that isn’t working if you experience sudden cramps and uterine pain along with vaginal bleeding. It’s also possible that the IUD has slipped if you cannot feel it.
To detect if the strings are out of place, you should check them frequently. Ideally, you should do this once a month, right after your period, or whenever you have strange cramps.
After getting an IUD, some women feel fine and go on with their lives. Others may find it uncomfortable and irritating.
Before you begin, wash your hands. Now squat or sit, then stick one finger into the vaginal opening. A hard, rubbery mass will be felt here, similar to your nose tip. It is your cervix. Feel the string through the cervix but do not pull. Otherwise, it could get misplaced.
Symptoms of an IUD That Has Moved
Your IUD is likely in place if your monthly symptoms are the same. Following are a few signs and symptoms that your IUD is out of place:
- You cannot feel the string of IUD.
- The length of your IUD string is different from what you usually feel.
- The hard, plastic part pokes through your vagina or cervix.
- Your partner will feel the hard plastic part during the intercourse.
- Difficulty in having sex.
- Feeling pregnant (morning sickness, sore breasts, vomiting)
- You may have severe pain, cramping, and a fever.
- Pain that won’t go away with NSAIDs.
- If vaginal bleeding is heavy and abnormal, you likely have an IUD that has triggered uterine perforation.
Immediately call your doctor and use an alternative form of birth control if you notice any of the above-listed symptoms.
What Are The Signs of IUD Infection?
Typically, IUDs don’t cause any infection. However, if you are already infected, an IUD may spread the disease. Among the most common STD concerns are gonorrhea and chlamydia.
Also, you are more susceptible to pelvic inflammatory disease after placing an IUD. PID is the infection of the upper reproductive organs.
Following are a few signs if your IUD causes infection:
- Vaginal discharge with a foul-smelling odor
- Pelvic and lower abdominal pain
- A burning sensation when urinating
- Fever
- Painful intercourse
IUD or IUS: Which is Better?
It is pretty similar to how an IUD and IUS work. Nevertheless, they differ principally in preventing pregnancies and releasing chemicals to avoid conception.
After getting an IUD, some women feel fine and go on with their lives. Others may find it uncomfortable and irritating. Indeed, in it the cervical mucus is altered to kill sperm, as well as the lining of the womb to prevent conception.
It works as an emergency contraceptive and can last up to 3 to 10 years. Moreover, you can remove it if you’re planning to have a baby.
Conversely, IUS is a hormonal contraceptive similar to the mini-contraceptive pill. It is also a T-shaped device placed in the womb of a female. In contrast to IUDs, it releases progesterone, which prevents you from becoming pregnant.
Unlike IUDs, it won’t offer immediate protection. Its protection period varies with your menstrual cycle. Suppose if you fitted the device during the 1st week of your cycle, the device would work instantly. If you put it in the 2nd or 3rd week, it would start working after the first week.
It typically lasts 3 to 5 years. Moreover, removing an IUS can restore your fertility.
Women can choose either option, so it comes down to a matter of preference. IUDs are an excellent option if you are not interested in hormonal contraception, and IUS may be the most suitable if you have painful or heavy periods.
FAQs
What is the Mirena crash?
After the Mirena IUD is removed, a Mirena crash occurs when one or more of the following symptoms persist for weeks or months.
- Nausea
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Low libido
- Mood swing
- Passing blood clots
An imbalance in hormones may contribute to these symptoms. In particular, when the body is not receiving enough progestin.
Can an IUD damage your uterus?
Perforation and infection of the uterus are the most common risks associated with IUDs. In fact, IUDs can cause severe damage to the uterus if they are inserted incorrectly.
Is it normal to bleed for a month after getting an IUD?
Some breakthrough bleeding may occur during the first few days and weeks after IUD insertion. Such bleeding is normal after IUD placement. Also, there may be some spotting and heavier bleeding periodically. But, if you bleed more than average, you should consult your doctor.
How much is bleeding too much after IUD?
It is considered heavy menstrual bleeding if you regularly bleed more than 80 mL, if your period lasts more than 8 days, or if you have to change your tampon or pad every two hours. You should consult a healthcare provider about your condition.
How long does it take to heal after IUD insertion?
It usually takes your body six months to adjust to the IUD. Some women may take up to a year to completely recover from their symptoms.
Can I wear a tampon with an IUD?
It is safe to use tampons with an IUD. The IUD is guided through your vagina and cervix to be placed in your uterus. Since an IUD is placed in the uterus, it does not go into the vagina where a tampon would go.
Finally, It May Be Concluded
Indeed, you may get terrified by internet IUD horrifying stories. According to ACOG, IUDs are the safest and most effective contraception device with the fewest complications.
However, if you still get cramps or pain, you can use OTC medicines, heat pads that can help reduce your symptoms’ intensity.
It must be irregular if it is your first period after IUD insertion. However, it will be lighter and less painful if you have a hormonal IUD. During copper IUD insertion, you will experience a heavy flow and more extended discharge periods.
Despite this, it is a budget-friendly, safe, and effective way to prevent conception.
