Questions. Does it bleed after installing the IUD or does it smear? We answer why Why does the lower abdomen pull if there is a spiral

An intrauterine device is a contraceptive device installed directly into the uterine cavity. The drug mechanically prevents sperm from passing through and meeting the egg, and also prevents implantation of the fertilized egg if conception does occur. Today, hormonal intrauterine systems (Mirena) are very popular. This contraceptive, among other effects, partially suppresses ovulation, thereby significantly reducing the likelihood of an unwanted pregnancy.

So, here are the most frequently asked questions about - everything you wanted to know from the doctor, but still did not dare to ask.

Which IUD is better: hormonal or non-hormonal?

Today they are considered a much more effective and reliable remedy. The Pearl index of the Mirena intrauterine system is less than 1, while for copper-containing IUDs it is up to 3. The final choice of the device is made together with the attending physician, taking into account all possible indications and contraindications.

Advantages of hormonal IUDs:

• Provide reliable protection against unwanted pregnancy (Pearl index is less than 1, while for copper-containing IUDs it is up to 3).
• Change the menstrual cycle: periods become scanty and less painful. Amenorrhea may develop when menstruation stops completely. This improves the woman's general condition and reduces the risk of developing anemia.
• They have a healing effect and are used for some gynecological diseases.

Advantages of non-hormonal IUDs:

• They do not contain progesterone, which means that unwanted effects associated with its effect on the body are excluded.
• They are cheaper than hormonal intrauterine systems.

What is Mirena?

Does the intrauterine device have an abortifacient effect?

The main mechanism of protection against unwanted pregnancy is an obstacle to the movement of sperm (and inhibition of ovulation for the Mirena system). If conception does occur, the fertilized egg will most likely not be able to attach to the thinned endometrium, and a very early miscarriage will occur. In this situation, the intrauterine device can be considered an abortifacient system, but in practice such an outcome occurs extremely rarely. The effectiveness of the IUD is quite high, and in most cases, conception does not occur.

Is pregnancy possible with the IUD?

Yes, this happens. In rare cases, such a pregnancy goes well, and the woman manages to carry the child to term. The expectant mother should be observed by a gynecologist, monitor the condition of the fetus and monitor her own sensations. Quite often it ends in miscarriage in the first trimester. This statement is true for both Mirena and non-hormonal IUDs.

Can there be an ectopic pregnancy due to an IUD?

The IUD located in the uterine cavity increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy. The following symptoms indicate the location of the fertilized egg outside the uterus:

• delayed menstruation;
• pain in the lower abdomen (usually on the side of the affected tube);
• bloody discharge from the genital tract.

Ultrasound will help make an accurate diagnosis.

Does your partner feel the coil during sex?

When the intrauterine device is installed correctly, it is not felt at all during intimacy. In rare cases, the partner may notice the tendrils of the IUD. In this case, you need to see a doctor. The doctor will carefully trim the long mustache, and the problem will be solved.

How to check the spiral correctly?

After the end of menstruation, you should carefully insert two fingers into the vagina and try to feel the antennae of the spiral. Thin threads are found deep in the vagina, but usually a woman can detect them inside. If the antennae cannot be identified, you should consult a doctor.

What to do if the antennae of the spiral are not palpable or visible in the vagina?

The antennae of the spiral must be accessible to a woman for independent recognition. If the antennae cannot be felt with your fingers, you should immediately consult a doctor. At the appointment, the doctor will find out whether the IUD is in place and, if necessary, correct its location in the uterus.

Who should insert and remove the coil?

Only an obstetrician-gynecologist should insert and remove an intrauterine device. Self-insertion or removal of an IUD is prohibited!

The insertion of an intrauterine device is carried out in the first days of the cycle. At this time, the cervix is ​​slightly open, and the contraceptive easily passes into the uterine cavity. The IUD is removed after 5 years or more (depending on the type of IUD). If complications develop, the contraceptive can be removed at any time directly at the doctor's appointment.

Is it possible for nulliparous women to have the IUD?

Women who have not experienced the joy of motherhood are not given an intrauterine device. The exception is Mirena. The hormonal system can be installed only for therapeutic purposes and according to strict indications, when other methods are ineffective or unavailable. The fact is that the intrauterine device naturally leads to the development of aseptic inflammation, which is extremely undesirable before the first pregnancy.

Is it possible to use the Mirena hormonal device for diabetes?

Yes it is possible. Diabetes mellitus is not a contraindication to the installation of an IUD. Before using an IUD, it would be a good idea to consult an endocrinologist and undergo the necessary examination.

Is it possible to install a spiral for uterine fibroids?

An intrauterine system can be installed for subserous tumors or interstitial fibroids that are entirely located in the muscle layer. In the case of a submucosal node that deforms the uterine cavity, its preliminary removal is indicated. Before installing an IUD, you must undergo an ultrasound and other examinations. The hormonal system Mirena is usually administered.

Is it possible to use Mirena for submucous fibroids?

Submucosal or submucosal fibroids are located close to the endometrium or even extend into the uterine cavity. With this localization of the node, the spiral is not inserted. Installation of Mirena is possible after removal of fibroids.

For how long is the IUD inserted and what happens if it is not removed on time?

The intrauterine device is usually placed for a period of 5 years. After this time, it is necessary to remove the IUD, otherwise complications may develop:

• inflammation of the uterus and appendages;
• cervical lesions;
• infertility.

If the IUD remains in the uterine cavity for a long time, it can grow into the walls of the organ, and the IUD can only be removed surgically.

Long-term use of Mirena is also not recommended. After the expiration date, the hormone levonorgestrel stops being released, and the contraceptive effect ends. An unwanted pregnancy may occur. All other risks associated with long-term use of the IUD also remain.

Can I use an intrauterine device for emergency contraception?

Yes it is possible. The IUD is inserted within 5 days after unprotected sexual intercourse according to the standard procedure. Since installation of the spiral requires a complete examination of the patient, this method has not found widespread use.Used as postcoital drugs .

The IUD is not used as an emergency contraceptive:

• in nulliparous women;
• for inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs;
• during unprotected sexual intercourse with a high risk of contracting an STI.

Is it possible to put the Mirena spiral on a nursing mother (during lactation)?

Yes it is possible. The spiral does not affect lactation; the hormone levonorgestrel does not pass into breast milk. The chosen method of contraception is not dangerous for the child. Before installing the spiral, you must consult a doctor.

When can an intrauterine device be inserted after childbirth, cesarean section, or abortion?

Time to install the IUD or Mirena hormonal system:

• After – after 6 weeks.
• After cesarean section - after 3-6 months.
• After an abortion - on the day of termination of pregnancy.

On what day of the cycle is the intrauterine device placed?

The IUD is inserted on days 5-7 of the menstrual cycle. At this time, the cervix is ​​slightly open, which makes insertion of the IUD easier. In addition, during this period the risk of unwanted pregnancy is minimal.

Is it painful to have an intrauterine device inserted?

When an IUD is inserted, there may be a slight nagging pain in the lower abdomen that goes away within half an hour. No special treatment is required. If the pain persists or intensifies, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Is it painful to remove an intrauterine device?

Removing an IUD from the uterus is a somewhat unpleasant, but not at all painful process. The procedure takes a few minutes and does not cause discomfort to the woman. No anesthesia is required. After removing the coil, you may feel moderate nagging pain in the lower abdomen, which goes away within 24 hours.

How does the menstrual cycle change after insertion of the IUD?

After insertion of a copper-containing IUD, the volume of discharge during menstruation may increase slightly. Conversely, the use of the Mirena hormonal system reduces the intensity of bleeding. Amenorrhea – a complete absence of menstruation – may occur, and this is a variant of the norm.

Is it possible to use tampons if there is a spiral?

In the first month after insertion of the IUD, it is better to use sanitary pads. In the future, you can safely insert tampons during menstruation. The IUD is in the uterus, the tampon is in the vagina, and these two devices do not touch. Even if the tampon touches the antennae of the contraceptive, this does not threaten the woman with anything dangerous.

What to do if your period does not come despite the spiral (Mirena)?

When using the Mirena system, some women experience amenorrhea - a complete absence of menstruation for a long time. This is normal, and after removing the device, the menstrual cycle will resume. No treatment required.

In certain cases, the absence of menstruation may indicate pregnancy. It is recommended to do a test or donate blood for hCG.

Is it possible to play sports with an IUD?

Yes, the intrauterine device does not interfere with physical activity, training in the gym, visiting the pool and playing sports. Restrictions are imposed only in the first month after the installation of the IUD. During this period, it is recommended to refrain from physical activity. In the future, you can lead your usual lifestyle without restrictions.

Can intrauterine contraception lead to cancer?

To date, there is no evidence that the IUD (including Mirena) provokes the development of malignant tumors of the uterus or appendages. For existing tumors of the reproductive organs, the IUD is not placed.

Is Mirena compatible with other medications?

It is known that some drugs (antibiotics, aspirin) reduce the contraceptive effect of the IUD. Consultation with your attending physician is necessary. If a long course of taking a potentially dangerous drug is required, it is recommended to additionally use condoms or spermicides during treatment.

Should I take a break from using an intrauterine device?

If it is well tolerated and there are no contraindications, a break is not taken. A new IUD can be inserted on the day the previous one is removed. According to indications, the doctor may recommend taking a break (for example, if inflammatory processes develop in the uterus or vagina).

When can you have sex after having an intrauterine device installed?

In the first seven days, it is recommended to abstain from intimacy or use a condom. Unprotected contact at this time can lead to unwanted pregnancy. There are no restrictions on sexual activity in the future.

How much does it cost to install a spiral?

The cost of an intrauterine device ranges from 500 to 10 thousand rubles (for Mirena).

In contact with

Women who have an intrauterine device installed sometimes notice spotting. This causes some discomfort and may be accompanied by an unpleasant odor and pain. Let us consider in more detail which symptoms are normal and in which cases pathology should be suspected.

Doctors warn that after installing an IUD, side effects are possible in the form of pain in the lower abdomen and blood after the installation of the IUD. As a rule, discharge can normally be present for 1-2 weeks. Usually this phenomenon occurs about 5 days after the procedure. Menstruation may be more abundant and longer; some women experience pain during this period, which has the nature of a spasm. In the periods between menstruation, bloody discharge sometimes appears during the spiral.

When does bleeding occur with an IUD?

The intrauterine device is usually placed in the last days of your period, so a few days after the procedure, spotting after insertion of the device is completely natural and should not be a cause for concern. If after installing the IUD you have heavy periods that last longer than usual and cause severe pain, it is better to seek advice from a specialist. Let us consider in more detail the situations in which you need to consult your doctor:

1. Heavy bloody or brown discharge that continues for more than a week after IUD insertion;
2. Severe pain in the lower abdomen;
3. Unpleasant odor from the vagina (may be caused by infection);
4. Delayed menstruation.

If the discharge is scanty and there is no pain, this situation is normal, and in some cases it can last for several months. The first menstruation after installation of the IUD sometimes begins later than usual; to normalize the cycle, it is recommended to take anti-inflammatory drugs, which will be prescribed by the gynecologist after the procedure. In some cases, after installing such contraceptives, a cycle failure is observed, this is not a pathology, the cycle is gradually restored. Inflammatory processes in such cases occur quite often, so taking medications is mandatory. The drugs will not only restore the monthly cycle, but will also help avoid possible complications.

In cases where prolonged spotting is observed during the coil, the doctor will refer the patient for tests to rule out gynecological pathologies. If test results do not show the presence of diseases, the IUD is recommended to be removed due to the fact that prolonged bleeding can cause anemia in a woman. For preventive purposes, an additional course of treatment with drugs containing iron is prescribed. It is also important to follow a diet and proper daily routine; increased exercise is not recommended. You should include more foods that contain iron in your diet.

It is important to know that sometimes there are cases when the intrauterine contraceptive is not installed correctly. This can usually happen within three months of the procedure. In this case, it can fall out unnoticed by the woman, which may lead to an unwanted pregnancy. If signs of possible pregnancy appear, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Bloody discharge after insertion of the IUD is a normal process that can take from several days to several months. If the discharge is not accompanied by pain and other signs, this phenomenon is considered normal. In some cases, there may be virtually no discharge, but this happens quite rarely.

When is it necessary to visit a gynecologist after installation?

If the brown discharge with a spiral is scanty, you should visit your doctor a month after the procedure. The next visit is scheduled by the gynecologist, usually after one and a half to two months. If you bleed profusely and with pain after installing the IUD, it is better not to delay going to the doctor. The sooner the pathology is identified, the faster the doctor will prescribe the necessary measures for treatment and prevention of complications. If the cycle is disrupted for more than six months, it is better to consult your gynecologist. Experts say that in the first months after the IUD was inserted, cycle failure is caused by disruption of the endometrium of the uterus. This is not dangerous to the woman’s health and the process gradually normalizes without the intervention of a doctor.

In some cases, periods disappear for a long period of time, sometimes up to six months or more. In such cases, it is necessary to exclude pregnancy and do a test. If the result is positive, you should definitely see a gynecologist to rule out possible complications.

Brown discharge with a spiral appears most often during an inflammatory process. If they do not disappear after a few days, a course of anti-inflammatory drugs is prescribed, which should be taken according to a clear regimen prescribed by the doctor. With proper and timely treatment, such discharge disappears within a few weeks.

Spiraling and spotting are normal if they are not accompanied by pain and the amount of discharge is small. If a woman notices that after installing the IUD there is bleeding, but not profusely and not for a long time, this process is normal and should not cause concern.

Possible consequences from the IUD

In some cases, an intrauterine contraceptive may cause discomfort in the abdominal area. It should be understood that it is a foreign body, the body must adapt to it, get used to it. Therefore, such pains are quite common; painkillers will help get rid of them. Aching pain may accompany several months, but does not appear in all cases.

Sometimes women experience mastalgia - an increase in the size of the mammary glands, which can be accompanied by pain and fever. Typically, such symptoms go away quickly without drug treatment.

In rare cases, the intrauterine device provokes bleeding, which persists for a long time. Some experts argue that the IUD is not suitable for all women and can be rejected by the body. In such a situation, it is better to remove it and choose another method of contraception. This is caused by individual intolerance to the spiral or to the material from which it is made. Modern medicine offers many methods of contraception, the intrauterine device is only one of them.

What is an IUD?

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small plastic device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Modern models are made of plastic and contain metal or a drug (copper, silver, gold or progestin).

What types of intrauterine devices are there?

Modern intrauterine devices are small plastic or plastic-metal devices. Their dimensions reach approximately 3x4 cm. Typically, copper, silver or gold are used to make spirals.

The appearance of most spirals resembles the shape of the letter “T”. The T-shaped shape of the spirals is the most physiological, as it corresponds to the shape of the uterine cavity.

1-27 — variants of spiral shapes. One thing in common is that they all act as a “foreign body”.

28 - Lipps loop. Spirals of this exact shape were common in the USSR. They were produced in three sizes. It was very inconvenient to insert them, since the disposable conductor, which is now attached to each spiral and is made of transparent polymer, was missing; they used a metal conductor, with which it was difficult to control the insertion process. Therefore, complications such as perforation (perforation) of the uterus occurred more often than at present.

29-32 — T-shaped spirals or “teshki” are modern modifications of metal-containing spirals. 33 - also “teshka”. An extremely convenient option for insertion and removal. Due to the fact that the “shoulders” are pulled into the conductor, the manipulation is almost painless.

34-36 - multi-loud or umbrella coils. They perform their function perfectly, but when inserting and removing them, the cervical canal is often injured. There are also cases of defragmentation (when the “hangers” come off the rod).

Which spirals are better?

There is no ideal spiral that would suit everyone without exception. This issue is decided by the gynecologist individually for each woman.

How does the IUD work?

The effect of the IUD consists of several factors:

• thickening of cervical mucus (i.e. mucus of the cervical canal), which makes it difficult for sperm to penetrate into the uterine cavity;
• a change in the properties of the endometrium (the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity), which makes it unsuitable for the implantation (of) an egg;
• due to the effect of a foreign body, the peristalsis of the fallopian tubes increases, which accelerates the passage of the egg through them, during which time it does not have time to reach the degree of maturity required for implantation.

How to use an IUD?

During a short, simple procedure, the doctor inserts an IUD into the uterine cavity.

If you want to make sure that the IUD is in the uterus, you can insert your fingers into the vagina and feel the plastic strings attached to the IUD.

If pregnancy is desired, you can ask your doctor to remove the IUD. Your fertility will be restored immediately.

What are the advantages of this method of contraception?

• High efficiency, comparable to the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. To some extent, IUDs are safer than hormonal pills because there is no danger of missing pills. When using the IUD, absolutely no action is required on the part of the woman to maintain the contraceptive effect, and, therefore, any possibility of error or accident is eliminated.
• Provides protection from pregnancy for a long time (from 5 to 7 years depending on the type of IUD).
• Use is not associated with sexual intercourse.
• Compared to all other contraceptive methods, the intrauterine device is the cheapest contraceptive method. Despite the fact that the cost of one IUD is many times higher than the cost of one package of birth control pills or one regular package of condoms, recalculating its cost over 5 years (the usual period of wearing one IUD) shows its undeniable superiority in economic terms.
• Unlike birth control pills, metal or plastic IUDs, which do not contain hormones, have absolutely no overall “hormonal” effect on the body, which many women (in some cases justifiably) fear. For this reason, IUDs, which do not contain hormones, are recommended as the primary method of birth control for women over 35 years of age who are active smokers or have other conditions that make the use of birth control pills impossible but require a very high level of protection against unwanted pregnancy.
• The spiral is not felt at all during sexual intercourse and does not interfere with partners.

What are the disadvantages of the method?

• Unlike, for example, a condom, an IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
• Installation and removal of the IUD should only be performed by a doctor.
• After installation of the IUD, side effects are possible.

What side effects might there be?

Installation of an intrauterine device can lead to some complications, but not all women wearing the device develop complications. Modern research shows that more than 95% of women wearing IUDs consider them to be a very good and convenient method of contraception and are satisfied with their choice.

During or immediately after installation (for all types of spirals):

• Perforation of the uterus (extremely rare);
• Development of endometritis (very rare).

During the entire period of use of the spiral (for metal-containing or plastic spirals without hormones):

• Menstruation may become heavier and more painful.
• There may be bloody vaginal discharge between periods.
• Women with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are at greater risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease.
• In some cases, expulsion (complete or incomplete loss) of the IUD from the uterus is possible.

When should an IUD not be installed?

Contraindications for installing the IUD are determined by a gynecologist. Only a specialist can determine exactly how safe it is to install a spiral in your case.

An IUD cannot be installed if:

• You think you might be pregnant.
• You have more than one sexual partner.
• There is an acute form of inflammatory diseases of the cervix or pelvic organs, including STIs.
• Over the past three months, inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs have been observed.
• Vaginal bleeding of unknown origin is observed.
• There is a fast-growing one, also if the myomatous node deforms the uterine cavity.
• There is cancer of the genital organs.
• There is a severe form of anemia (hemoglobin<90 г/л).

• There is a high risk of contracting an STI.

How to prepare for installing a spiral?

The procedure for inserting an intrauterine device cannot be performed in the presence of any sexually transmitted infections or other gynecological diseases, therefore, before installing the device, the gynecologist conducts a general gynecological examination, taking smears to determine the degree of cleanliness of the vagina and a smear for oncocytology, in some cases an ultrasound is necessary. research. If any infections or gynecological diseases are detected, the insertion of the IUD is postponed until cured.

Before installing the spiral:

How to behave after inserting the IUD?

Within 7-10 days after installing the spiral, you cannot:

• Have sex;
• Do douching;

After 7-10 days it is necessary to undergo a follow-up examination.

Be sure to see your doctor sooner if:

• Within a few days of having the IUD installed, you have a fever, very heavy vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, or an unusual vaginal discharge with a foul odor.
• Any time after inserting the IUD, you feel the IUD in your vagina, notice that the IUD has moved or fallen out, or if you notice your period is 3-4 weeks late.

What is the follow-up?

If menstruation does not occur within 4-6 weeks after insertion of the IUD, seek advice. You should contact us for a preventive examination at least once a year, and at any time if you have questions or problems.

What symptoms should you see a doctor for?

Application is necessary if:

• You suspect pregnancy.
• You have heavy vaginal bleeding (heavier or longer than usual).
• You experience severe abdominal pain;
• pain is felt and bleeding occurs during sexual intercourse.
• There are signs of infection, unusual vaginal discharge, chills, and fever.
• You cannot feel the IUD strings or feel that they are shorter or longer than before.

Will there be any changes in how you feel and the nature of your menstruation after the insertion of an IUD?

After installing IUDs without hormones, the following changes are possible:

• Your periods become more painful, slightly longer, and more abundant than before the IUD was installed.
• Spotting bloody discharge from the vagina may be observed, before or after menstruation, sometimes (less often) and in the interval between two menstruation.
• In some cases, due to increased pain during menstruation and irregular bleeding, women are forced to stop using the IUD and remove it before the end of the period.

After installing the IUD with hormones (in particular):

• There may be a significant shortening of menstruation and a decrease in the total amount of bleeding during menstruation.
• Approximately 20% of women using Mirena experience complete disappearance of menstruation (amenorrhea). The restoration of menstruation in this case occurs only after the IUD expires and is removed from the uterus. It is reliably known that the disappearance of menstruation in women using Mirena is not associated with inhibition of the ovaries (as with the use of oral contraceptives), but with the suppression of the development of the uterine mucosa by small doses of hormones.
• Despite the fact that many women are afraid of the disappearance of their periods, there is no reason to consider it dangerous to health. Moreover, this effect of hormonal IUDs can even be beneficial, since it significantly improves a woman’s quality of life and is an effective method of treating anemia, which many women with long and heavy periods have. The Mirena IUD is used to treat severe uterine bleeding.

How is the intrauterine device removed?

Removal is usually done after 5-7 years (depending on the modification of the spiral). But if the woman wishes, this can be done at any time. The reason may be the desire to become pregnant or the occurrence of any complications.

Before removal, the same examination is carried out as before insertion of the spiral. If necessary, vaginal sanitation (improvement) is prescribed.

Removal is done by pulling the spiral tendrils at a certain angle. In some cases, for example, in the case of wearing a spiral beyond the prescribed period, removal must be carried out in a hospital setting, with anesthesia, by curettage of the uterine cavity.

Within 4-5 days after removing the IUD you cannot:

• Have sex;
• Use vaginal tampons (you can use regular pads);
• Do douching;
• Take a bath, visit a sauna or steam bath (you can take a shower);
• Engage in heavy physical labor or intense exercise.

Removing the IUD does not cause changes in the menstrual cycle. The exception is the Mirena IUD, when worn, there is an absence of menstruation or scanty cyclic bleeding. After Mirena removal, the menstrual cycle usually returns in about 3-6 months.

Be sure to consult a doctor if, within a few days after removing the IUD, you have a fever, very strong vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, or unusual vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor.

Is it possible to remove the spiral yourself?

Do not under any circumstances try to do this!

The spiral is removed by pulling on the tendrils, which may break before it is removed. After this, the IUD can only be removed instrumentally and only by penetrating the uterine cavity. In addition, the mustache may break as the spiral passes through the cervical canal and it will get stuck there. Take my word for it, it is very painful.

To remove the IUD, be sure to consult a gynecologist.

How often should the coil be changed?

Metal-containing spirals (for example, copper or gold) can be used for 5-7 years without replacement. IUDs with hormones (for example, Mirena) require replacement every 5 years.

Can I get pregnant if I wear an intrauterine device?

Pregnancy in women wearing an intrauterine device is extremely rare. The probability of pregnancy when using copper coils is no more than 8 chances out of 1000 during the year. When using IUDs with hormones, the chance of getting pregnant is reduced to 1 in 1000 within a year.

In this case, the course of pregnancy is no different from the course of a normal pregnancy, the spiral is located behind the membranes, and during childbirth it is born along with the placenta. Many women are afraid that the IUD may grow into the child’s body. These fears are unfounded, since the child’s body is surrounded by and. Pregnant women who have the IUD are observed to be at risk.

The risk of pregnancy increases significantly if the IUD becomes dislodged or falls out of the uterus. This happens especially often after menstruation, when the IUD can be thrown out of the uterine cavity along with the rejected tissue.

In this regard, all women who wear the IUD are recommended to check the presence of the IUD in the uterus at least once a month by feeling the antennae of the IUD deep in the vagina. If you previously felt the antennae of the spiral well, but can no longer find them, contact your gynecologist, as the spiral may have fallen out and you did not notice it.

How do I know if I am pregnant while wearing the IUD?

If While wearing a non-hormonal intrauterine device, your period is delayed by more than 2-3 weeks, you need to take a home pregnancy test and consult a doctor.

Could the IUD interfere with my ability to get pregnant in the future?

The contraceptive effect of intrauterine devices is easily reversible and disappears soon after their removal from the uterine cavity. The probability of pregnancy occurring within 1 year after removal of the IUD reaches 96%.

Planning a pregnancy is possible as early as the next month after removal of the intrauterine device.

Intrauterine devices are an effective means of preventing unwanted pregnancy, but, like other methods of contraception, they have a number of possible side effects and complications.

Side effects

The occurrence of side effects is usually associated with the type of intrauterine device used. They do not occur often and are most evident in the first three months, after which, in most cases, they disappear completely. Let's talk in more detail about copper-containing intrauterine device. Side effects are:

Heavy and prolonged menstruation;

Pain in the lower abdomen.

When using copper-containing IUDs in the first months, heavy, prolonged menstruation is possible; usually they do not require special medical care and go away on their own, but you should definitely consult a doctor, as these symptoms may indicate complications (ectopic pregnancy, uterine perforation, interrupted pregnancy, etc. ). Pain in the lower abdomen, similar to contractions, more often appears in nulliparous (not pregnant) women before the installation of the IUD. If you experience severe pain, you should consult a doctor to rule out complications (infections, uterine perforation, etc.). So if you have installed intrauterine device, side effects may be like this:

Lack of menstruation;

Bloody discharge not associated with menstruation;

Roughness and pain in the breasts;

Acne;

Headache;

Nausea and vomiting;

Backache;

Decreased sexual desire;

Irritability, depression.

Often, the absence of menstruation (amenorrhea) is a natural reaction of the body to hormonal therapy and does not affect reproductive function or overall health. After removing the hormonal device, the menstrual cycle is completely restored. However, if amenorrhea occurs, you still need to consult a doctor to rule out a possible pregnancy (including ectopic). Normally, cycle disturbances and the appearance of slight bleeding after the installation of the IUD are possible, which disappear after a few weeks and do not require treatment. If spotting is observed regardless of menstruation for a long time, you should consult a doctor to rule out pathology.

Acne, breast swelling, headache, nausea, chest pain and a disturbed emotional state can be a consequence of poor tolerance to hormonal drugs. If these possible symptoms do not go away within three months, it is advisable to remove the IUD and use other methods of contraception.

Complications

Complications are rare and occur for the following reasons:

Use of the IUD by women at risk (relative contraindications should be taken into account);

Installation of the spiral by an inexperienced doctor;

Poor quality spiral.

All complications are usually classified according to the moment of their occurrence:

IUDs that appeared during installation (uterine perforation, cervical rupture, vasovagal reaction);

Associated with the presence of the IUD (nausea, vomiting, pain in the lower abdomen, frequent painful urination, purulent discharge, possible rejection and loss of the IUD);

Associated with the removal of the IUD (ectopic pregnancy, infertility, chronic pelvic pain).

The most common complications are:

Infections;

Bleeding;

Intense pain;

Spiral rejection.

You can get advice, conduct an accurate diagnosis, install an intrauterine device in a high-quality manner, or use other types of medical services by visiting our medical center in Moscow.

Hello! When installed correctly, the intrauterine device is located in the body of the uterus, and special “whiskers” hang from the cervical canal into the vagina, which are necessary for subsequent removal of the device from the uterus. Apparently, you feel them. It is believed that these antennae retract over time. But perhaps your doctor really left the mustache too long. In any case, to avoid unnecessary stress, you should go and see a doctor. And also ask in detail about what sensations you should or should not have after installing the spiral you are using. Should the antennae and hard parts of this spiral be felt? I personally think that you can wait a little to more accurately determine whether this is a loss of the IUD or just a period of adaptation of it to your body, and your body to the IUD. After all, you were probably told that it is not recommended to have sex in the coming days after installing the IUD. So, even if it falls out, you should not be in danger of becoming pregnant, unless, of course, you follow the doctor’s recommendations.

In general, the general recommendation is that if you cannot feel the threads or, if, on the contrary, you can feel the hard part of the IUD, consult a doctor. Under these circumstances, additional means of preventing pregnancy, such as condoms, should be used before consulting a doctor.

As for other sensations, after installing the spiral you can feel

minor cramping or aching pain in the lower abdomen. These pains should stop within 1-2 days. If this does not happen, you need to see your doctor again.

If the IUD is inserted correctly, neither you nor your partner will feel its presence during sexual intercourse. In rare cases, the partner may experience discomfort. In this case, the woman should consult a doctor. Sometimes severe discomfort may be due to the fact that the IUD has fallen out into the vagina. If this happens, you need to urgently consult a doctor to check the IUD and rule out pregnancy.

The first 2-3 menstruation after insertion of the IUD may be more abundant. It is possible to experience bleeding between periods. This means that within 2-3 months the uterus seems to adapt to the IUD. During this time, you should always check that the IUD is in place.

In some cases, the IUD may be pushed out of the uterus and into the vagina (expulsion). The uterus is slightly open during the menstrual cycle, so the risk of expulsion is higher during this period. At the end of each menstrual cycle, you should check whether the thread is in place and whether the hard part of the IUD can be felt in the vagina. You should always wash your hands thoroughly before and after this examination. You should also always check your tampon or pad during your period before throwing it away.