Random bleeding with mirena after 3 years

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are the most commonly used long-acting reversible contraception method worldwide. The device is a T-shaped plastic frame that's inserted into the uterus, where it either releases a type of the hormone progestin (hormonal IUD) or produces an inflammatory reaction that is toxic to sperm and eggs, preventing pregnancy (copper IUD).

They provide a nonsurgical option for pregnancy prevention that is almost as effective as surgical sterilization. Today's IUDs are highly efficient, safe, easy to use and cost-effective.

1. What if the IUD moves?

It is uncommon for an IUD to move. If an IUD moves, it could result in some increased menstrual cramping or change in menstrual bleeding. There also is a small possibility that it could result in some discomfort during intercourse. If these symptoms occur, you should be evaluated by your health care provider.

2. What if the IUD comes out?

The risk of IUD expulsion is 3–6% for levonorgestrel IUD and 3–10% for copper IUD. If your IUD comes out, you should see your health care provider to discuss replacement versus changing to another form of contraception.

3. What if I do not have my period for a long time and then suddenly I have my period again?

Approximately half of women with a hormonal IUD will stop having their menstrual cycles. It is common for some women to have irregular, light menstruation with a hormonal IUD. If you have not had a menses for a prolonged period of time and then suddenly you resume your menses, you should see your health care provider.

4. What if I can't find the IUD strings?

You should check your IUD strings regularly. It is common for IUD strings to get pulled up inside the uterine cavity, and this is the most common cause for not being able to feel the IUD strings. If you cannot feel the IUD strings after several attempts, you should be evaluated by your health care provider.

5. Can I remove the IUD by myself?

You are unlikely to cause harm if you try to remove an IUD by yourself, but only about 20% of women who try to remove their IUDs at home are successful. The biggest factor in success is the length of the IUD strings with longer strings making the process easier and shorter making it more difficult. If you are unable to feel the strings or get traction, you are unlikely to successfully remove your IUD. Talk with your health care provider if you have questions or are considering removing your IUD.

Remember that IUDs are intended to remain in place up to five years, so it is unlikely that you need to remove it yourself unless you want to become pregnant.

Okey Osuebi, M.B.B.S., is an OB-GYN in Fairmont, Minnesota.

An intrauterine device is a reversible way to prevent pregnancy in the long term. A person with an intrauterine device may experience irregular bleeding and other side effects.

Different kinds of intrauterine devices (IUDs) can cause different side effects. A person usually experiences irregular bleeding as their body is first adjusting to the device. If they continue to experience unusual bleeding, particularly after sex, the IUD may not be responsible.

In this article, we explore some common causes of bleeding after sex. We also describe side effects of an IUD and when to see a doctor.

It may take the body several months to get used to an IUD. During this time, a person is more likely to experience breakthrough bleeding, or bleeding between periods. This is also called spotting.

When a person experiences this spotting just after sex, it may seem as though the sex has caused the bleeding.

A doctor places an IUD through the vagina, then through the cervix and into the uterus. The IUD has stiff plastic strings on one end so that a doctor can remove it at a later date.

A person can sometimes feel the strings of an IUD in the vagina, but they should not cause discomfort or bleeding after sex. If a sexual partner can feel the strings during sex, and if this is bothersome, a doctor may be able to shorten the strings.

An IUD can sometimes become displaced. If this happens, and the IUD moves partially out of the cervix or into the vagina, a person could experience some bleeding after sex. Displacement also usually causes cramping and discomfort.

Pain and bleeding after sex are not typical side effects of an IUD. If a person experiences either, they should see a doctor to ensure that the device is in place and that no other condition, such as a cervical infection, is responsible.

The following groups are more likely to have displaced IUDs:

  • people in their teens
  • people who receive IUDs immediately after childbirth
  • people with heavy periods

Anyone who suspects that their IUD is dislodged should contact a doctor right away. Displaced IUDs cannot protect against pregnancy.

Share on PinterestPostcoital bleeding can be worrisome and may result from inadequate lubrication or infections.

In a scientific review published in 2014, researchers estimated that 0.7–9.0 percent of women who menstruate experience bleeding after sex, which is also called postcoital bleeding.

Postcoital bleeding can be painful and worrisome. Some common causes include:

  • inadequate lubrication during sex
  • infections, such as cervical infections or pelvic inflammatory disease
  • lesions on the genitals or vulva caused by sexually transmitted infections, such as genital herpes or syphilis
  • cervical or endometrial polyps
  • one or many tears in the vagina
  • thinning of vaginal tissues, which is also known as vaginal atrophy

Rarely, cervical cancer can also cause postcoital bleeding.

Bleeding after sex once is not usually a cause for concern, but see a doctor if it happens frequently.

The doctor may perform a physical exam and check whether the IUD is in place. They may also screen for infections and perform a Pap smear, to check for abnormal cells on the cervix.

In addition, a doctor can use pelvic ultrasound imaging to check whether the uterine lining looks healthy and to confirm the correct placement of the IUD.

Some people experience pain when the doctor inserts the IUD. Within the first few months of having the device, a person may also experience side effects, such as:

  • cramps
  • backaches
  • heavier periods
  • irregular periods
  • spotting between periods

If a person with an IUD experiences any of the following symptoms, they should see a doctor:

  • feeling faint
  • severe cramping, pain, or soreness that gets worse over time
  • significant blood loss or bleeding that does slow down
  • signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or difficulty breathing
  • unusual vaginal discharge, which may be thick, blood-tinged, or foul-smelling

An IUD is usually a safe and effective method of preventing pregnancy. However, if a person with an IUD suspects that they have become pregnant, or if they are experiencing any side effects, they should seek medical care.

Why am I bleeding with the Mirena after 4 years?

Mirena bleeding may be associated with the continuous release of hormone medication but it may also be caused by other device complications including: Inflammation. Infection. Device migration into the abdomen.

Is it normal to spot with an IUD after 3 years?

About 20 percent of women using a hormonal IUD have periods that last longer than 8 days. Spotting is also common at the beginning. After the 6-month mark, your period should become less frequent and lighter, or it could stop altogether.

Why am I suddenly bleeding on IUD?

It may take the body several months to get used to an IUD. During this time, a person is more likely to experience breakthrough bleeding, or bleeding between periods. This is also called spotting. When a person experiences this spotting just after sex, it may seem as though the sex has caused the bleeding.

Can Mirena stop working after 3 years?

It can stay in place for up to 5 years. Some people use the Mirena IUD for long-term birth control or as a treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding. After 5 years, the Mirena IUD stops working. At this point, a doctor will remove or replace it.