Do you have periods on the coil?

Yes—most people still have periods on the coil, but what those periods look like depends on the type of coil. With a hormonal coil (hormonal IUD), periods usually become lighter and may stop altogether over time, which is normal and safe. With a copper coil (copper IUD), periods typically continue and may be heavier and crampier at first before settling.

What “the coil” means and how it affects bleeding

In the UK and many other places, “the coil” refers to intrauterine devices (IUDs). There are two main types: hormonal IUDs, which release a small amount of levonorgestrel (a progestogen), and the non-hormonal copper IUD. Both are highly effective contraception, but they influence menstrual bleeding differently because of how they work inside the uterus.

Hormonal coils (IUDs) and your period

Hormonal IUDs (such as Mirena, Kyleena, Jaydess/Skyla, and Liletta) thin the lining of the uterus and thicken cervical mucus. They don’t usually stop ovulation entirely, but they often reduce overall bleeding.

Here’s what to expect with bleeding patterns on hormonal IUDs, based on clinical data and real-world experience:

• First 3–6 months: irregular spotting and unpredictable light bleeding are common.
• Beyond 6 months: many users see much lighter, shorter periods or only occasional spotting.
• Amenorrhea (no bleeding): occurs in roughly 20% of Mirena/Liletta users after 1 year and can rise to about 30–40% over several years; around 10–12% with Kyleena and about 6% with Jaydess/Skyla after 1 year.
• Cramping: often improves over time; some people notice minimal cramps after the initial months.

In short, lighter or absent periods are expected on the hormonal coil and are not harmful. The lack of bleeding is due to a thin uterine lining, not a buildup of blood.

Copper coils (IUDs) and your period

The copper IUD contains no hormones. It prevents pregnancy by creating a local inflammatory environment toxic to sperm and eggs, without suppressing ovulation. Because it doesn’t thin the uterine lining, menstrual bleeding typically continues as usual—often increased at first.

Common bleeding changes with copper IUDs include:

• Heavier and longer periods in the first 3–6 months, sometimes with more noticeable cramps.
• Gradual improvement after several cycles, though some users continue to have somewhat heavier periods than before insertion.
• Spotting between periods may occur early on but usually settles.
• If bleeding remains very heavy or prolonged, discuss evaluation for anemia and options to manage flow.

While heavier bleeding is a known side effect, it often improves with time and can be managed. If it does not, speak with a clinician about treatments or alternative contraception.

Is it safe not to have periods on the hormonal coil?

Yes. Not having periods on a hormonal IUD is common and medically safe. The hormone keeps the uterine lining thin, so there’s no “buildup” that needs to shed. However, changes in bleeding patterns should still be interpreted in context.

Consider a pregnancy test or contacting a healthcare professional if any of the following apply:

• You suddenly stop bleeding after a previously regular pattern on a copper IUD.
• You have pregnancy symptoms (breast tenderness, nausea, increased urination), especially with new pelvic pain.
• You cannot feel the IUD strings and also have symptoms such as pain, abnormal bleeding, or positive test.
• You have a positive pregnancy test at any time with an IUD in place.

Pregnancy with an IUD is rare, but if it happens, there’s a higher chance it could be ectopic compared with pregnancies without an IUD; urgent assessment is important.

Managing heavy bleeding or cramps on the coil

Most early side effects improve after a few cycles. If bleeding or cramps interfere with daily life, there are effective, evidence-based options.

These approaches can help, especially for copper IUD–related heavy periods:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or mefenamic acid, taken during menses can reduce flow and cramps; ask a pharmacist or clinician about what’s appropriate for you.
• Tranexamic acid (prescription) can significantly reduce menstrual blood loss on days of heavy bleeding.
• Heat therapy, rest, and gentle movement can ease cramps.
• If iron deficiency is suspected (fatigue, dizziness, pale skin), consider a hemoglobin/ferritin check and iron supplementation if advised.
• For persistent symptoms, discuss switching IUD types or alternative contraception.

If symptoms remain severe, a clinician can check IUD position, screen for conditions like fibroids or infection, and tailor treatment.

When to seek urgent care

Certain symptoms with an IUD warrant immediate attention to rule out complications such as infection or ectopic pregnancy.

• Severe, one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, or dizziness (possible ectopic pregnancy).
• Soaking through one or more pads or tampons an hour for two hours or more, passing large clots, or feeling lightheaded (possible hemorrhage).
• Fever, chills, or foul-smelling discharge (possible infection).
• Positive pregnancy test with an IUD in place.
• Sudden severe pain after insertion or the IUD partly coming out.

Prompt assessment can prevent complications and help preserve fertility.

Fertility and your cycle after IUD removal

Fertility typically returns quickly after both hormonal and copper IUD removal—often within the first cycle. Periods usually revert to your personal baseline over the next one to three months, though timing varies.

How long different coils last

Duration depends on the device and local regulatory guidance. Always confirm with your clinician based on your region and health needs.

• Hormonal IUDs: Mirena and Liletta are approved for up to 8 years for contraception in several countries; Kyleena up to 5 years; Jaydess/Skyla up to 3 years.
• Copper IUDs: Most are approved for 10 years (for example, Paragard) and may be effective longer; some models have 5–10 year approvals depending on type.

If you’re using a hormonal IUD for heavy periods (menorrhagia), the approved duration for that indication may differ from its contraceptive duration; check with your provider.

Summary

On the coil, periods depend on the type: hormonal coils often lead to lighter or absent periods over time and that’s safe; copper coils usually maintain periods, which may be heavier and crampier at first. Irregular bleeding in the first few months is common for both types. Seek advice if you have pregnancy symptoms, severe pain, very heavy bleeding, fever, or sudden changes that concern you. Most side effects improve, and effective treatments are available if they don’t.

Can you get pregnant on the coil with no periods?

While extremely rare, it’s still possible to get pregnant if you have an IUD. If your IUD is nonhormonal, then a missed period could be the earliest signifier of this. If you don’t have a period, as you have a hormonal IUD, this can be a little tougher.

How often do you get your period on the coil?

In most people this settles within three months, but occasionally it can continue for up to six months. After this, your periods are usually lighter than normal and can vary from monthly to every few months, or your periods may also stop altogether (which is also normal).

Do you still have a period on the Mirena?

It’s normal to still have periods when using Mirena, especially during the first 3 to 6 months, as your body adjusts to the hormonal IUD. You can expect your periods to become lighter and more irregular over time, and in about 20% of users, they may stop completely after a year. However, contact your doctor if you have heavy or ongoing bleeding, suspect you might be pregnant, or experience other concerning symptoms. 
What to Expect with Mirena

• Initial Adjustment Period: For the first few months, your periods might become irregular, or you may experience spotting between periods. 
• Lightening of Periods: Over time, your periods are expected to become significantly lighter and less frequent. 
• Amenorrhea (No Periods): A common side effect is that your periods may stop altogether, which is called amenorrhea. 
• Irregularity: Even after the initial adjustment, some people continue to have unpredictable bleeding or spotting. 

When to See a Doctor
It’s important to see a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following:

• You suspect you might be pregnant. 
• Your bleeding is unusually heavy or lasts longer than expected after the first 6 months. 
• You can no longer feel the Mirena strings or think the IUD might have moved. 
• You have any signs of infection, such as fever, unusual vaginal discharge, or sores. 
• You’re concerned about the continued effects of your IUD or if your symptoms change significantly. 

What does a period look like on the coil?

Hormonal IUDs may make your periods lighter. Some people don’t get periods at all while on them. Copper IUDs often make periods heavier and crampier. However, this may not be a permanent change.