Menstrual cramps and an intrauterine device (IUD)

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Menstrual cramps and an intrauterine device (IUD)

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small object that is inserted into the uterus by a health professional. The IUD prevents pregnancy by interfering with the movement of sperm in the uterus and by causing changes in the lining of the uterus, which prevents implantation.

All IUDs have a plastic string that extends through the opening of the cervix into the vagina. The string allows a woman to check that the IUD is in place and is used for removal, when needed.

The IUD effectively prevents pregnancy. However, some women have their IUDs removed because of bothersome side effects, such as heavy periods and painful menstrual cramps.

Increased bleeding is the most common side effect of the copper IUD. Note: The levonorgestrel IUD (Mirena) causes less bleeding and cramping after insertion than other IUDs.
- Periods may increase in length or heaviness of flow, or bleeding may occur between periods.
- These side effects usually go away after the IUD has been in place for several months.
Increased menstrual cramping is another side effect of the IUD. This is especially true in women who have never been pregnant.
- Pelvic pain, including painful intercourse, may also be a sign of a pelvic infection.
- The risk of pelvic infection increases for women who have an IUD in place, have more than one sex partner, or have had a pelvic infection in the past.

Call your health professional if you have any of the following symptoms:

Unusually heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding that lasts longer than what is normal for you
Pelvic pain, unusually severe menstrual cramps, or painful intercourse
Exposure to sexually transmitted disease
A missed period
Any pelvic pain and fever

Credits

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Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated	July 11, 2007

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Last updated:	July 11, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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