Does a copper IUD cause pain during sexual intercourse?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had a copper IUD inserted about six months ago, and I am having some concerns. My periods have become much heavier and more painful than they were before, and I am also experiencing cramping even between periods. I chose the copper IUD because I wanted a hormone-free method of birth control, but now I am wondering if I made the right choice. Recently, I have also been feeling pain during sexual intercourse, which never happened before I had the IUD inserted.

How long does it usually take for the body to adjust to a copper IUD?
Should I be doing anything special to check if it is still positioned correctly?
Is this normal, or should I be worried?
Could the IUD be causing this pain during sex?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

As you may know, copper intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs) can lead to several complications. These include spontaneous expulsion, misplacement of the device, heavy and painful menstrual bleeding, and no protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Given your symptoms, a more suitable option for you might be a hormonal intrauterine device, such as a Mirena (Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system).

Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system is a hormonal intrauterine device used for both birth control and the management of heavy menstrual bleeding. It is a T-shaped plastic device that releases the hormone Levonorgestrel into the uterus. This not only helps prevent pregnancy but can also reduce the amount and pain of menstrual bleeding. Mirena is effective for up to eight years for contraception and up to five years for treating heavy periods. It contains Levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) 52 milligrams (mg) and releases a daily dose of 20 micrograms (mcg) into the uterine cavity. Many women find that Mirena results in shorter, lighter, and less painful periods compared to non-hormonal options.

There are other similar devices as well. Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system contains 13.5 mg (milligrams) of Levonorgestrel and releases 6 to 10 micrograms per day. Levonorgestrel contains 19.5 mg of Levonorgestrel and releases 17.5 micrograms per day. Levonorgestrel releases 18.6 micrograms per day of Levonorgestrel.

The mechanism of action of these devices includes thickening of the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from entering the uterus, inhibiting fertilization and ovulation, and preventing endometrial growth by causing endometrial atrophy. These hormonal intrauterine devices are indicated for contraception for up to five years, and they are also used in women who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), or premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

However, they are not suitable in some cases. Contraindications include known or suspected pregnancy, current or recurrent pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), lower genital tract infection, cervicitis, endometritis, cervical polyps, cervical cancer, and endometrial cancer.

Considering your current symptoms and concerns, I would recommend that you consider Mirena as a more comfortable and effective alternative to the copper intrauterine contraceptive device.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer.

For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.