IUD Insertion For Endometriosis: Things to Know

An intrauterine device (IUD) is an effective birth control method that can last up to 10 years, depending on the type of IUDs you use. This device is easy to insert into the uterus via a simple procedure and has no major complications. There are two types of IUDs available: hormonal IUD and copper IUD. You can choose a suitable IUD depending on the flow of your periods. Both IUDs have a diverse impact on your periods. For instance, menstrual bleeding with Mirena coil is lighter, while copper coil leads to heavy menstrual bleeding.

Below let’s look at how Mirena coil for endometriosis can help alleviate the pain and symptoms of endometriosis.

1. What is an Intrauterine Device (IUD)?

Intrauterine devices (IUD) are tiny devices fitted into the uterus to prevent the process of insemination. The two types of IUDs are copper and hormonal, which restricts sperms from reaching the egg. Always make sure to get an IUD fitted by an experienced healthcare professional to eliminate the risk of infections. The specialist will also help determine the best IUD for you. After preliminary check-ups to rule out pregnancy, the specialist will then insert the IUD.

The IUDs are 99% effective. Some of the benefits of an IUD are:

• It can be utilised while breastfeeding
• It is quickly reversible if you want to get pregnant
• It is a cost-effective birth control method
• It can also aid in relieving menstrual pain, heavy periods, and pain from endometriosis.

2. Coil Fitting Services in London

As mentioned above, coil fitting services is a quick process, which is also reversible. Most coils require to be removed after 5 or 10 years, depending on the type you choose. Some things to keep in mind while preparing for an IUD fitting are:

• Abstain from sexual intercourse prior to the day of the fitting
• If you are on pills, you can consume them as usual (till the day of the fitting)
• Before you arrive for coil fitting, eat a light meal/snack. Also, stay hydrated throughout to prevent dizziness
• To limit cramping during the procedure, some healthcare providers may also prescribe pain relieve medication
• The healthcare provider might also take a urine sample before putting in the IUD to determine whether or not you are

2.1 What to expect during an IUD fitting

During the coil fitting, the coil will be inserted through the vagina into the cervix. This may cause some cramping when the IUD is inserted. Next, the attached thread may be trimmed at the cervix to assist future removal. Post insertion, you may feel faint or dizzy while trying to stand up. In this case, you should lie down until you feel okay and ready to move.

Further reading: How to Know If Your IUD is Out of Place

2.2 What to expect during the removal of the IUD

You can remove the IUD at any point in time. If your IUD is expiring, you need to replace it. The removal process of the contraceptive coil is quite straightforward. The specialist will mildly pull on the string, which will cause the coil’s arms to fold up, and it will slip out. You might feel mild cramping during and right after the coil is pulled out. Post removal, you will feel completely normal, and any side-effects you had experienced when on the IUD will recede.

Further reading: Coil Fitting and Removal: Everything You Need To Know

3. What is Endometriosis?

In Endometriosis, tissues that generally line the inside of the uterus develops outside the uterus. This abnormal growth can be seen on the fallopian tubes and ovaries. In rare cases, abnormal tissue growth can be seen on other organs inside your body, including the intestines and pelvic area.

The endometrial tissue that grows outside of the uterus is called the endometrial implant. This tissue can be the cause of inflammation, pain, and scarring. An intrauterine device or IUD can help people manage the symptoms of endometriosis as there is no cure.

A few symptoms of endometriosis include severe menstrual cramps, heavy menstrual flow, longer periods, bowel or urinary disorders, nausea or vomiting and pain during sex.

3.1 What is a Mirena IUD?

A Mirena IUD is a long-term birth control option that’s placed in the uterus, mainly to prevent pregnancy. Mirena contains a hormone used in birth control pills known as levonorgestrel. The device has 52mg of levonorgestrel and releases roughly 20mcg/per day.

• A Mirena IUD must be inserted by an experienced healthcare provider. In general, it is ideal to get the coil fitted during your periods.
• The specialist will schedule a follow-up to check your device four to six weeks after it has been inserted, and once per year after that.
• Mirena is 90% effective after six months, and it can lessen menstrual bleeding by more than half.

3.2 Mirena Coil and Endometriosis: How does it work?

Understanding the relationship between endometriosis & hormones can help you understand how Mirena can treat endometriosis. The condition causes tissue to grow outside the uterus, causing painful periods, excessive menstrual bleeding, and other issues. It can also cause infertility.

Estrogen and progesterone (hormones) can assist in controlling the growth of endometrial tissue and prevent new tissues from developing. Hormones also ease the pain caused by endometriosis. Thus, being a hormonal contraceptive, Mirena can help alleviate the symptoms of endometriosis.

3.3 Benefits of Using Mirena IUD for Endometriosis

Mirena IUD is long-term contraception that can help suppress tissue growth, and inflammation, and reduce menstrual bleeding. There are various benefits of using Mirena IUD for endometriosis:

Mirena IUD is long-term contraception that can help suppress tissue growth, ease pelvic pain and inflammation, and reduce menstrual bleeding. There are various benefits of using Mirena IUD for endometriosis:

• There is no requirement for utilising the pill or shot daily
• Once inserted, it works for up to 5 years or longer
• The device also serves as a birth control method
• Mirena coil for endometriosis can help alleviate various symptoms of endometriosis.
• Reduces the blood flow during periods.
• Reduces menstrual cramps.
• Prevents endometriosis from returning after surgical treatment.
• To know if Mirena IUD is the right option to treat endometriosis, it is best to consult with a specialist. He will evaluate your condition to check its severity and guide you to make an informed treatment choice.

To know if Mirena IUD is the right option to treat endometriosis, it is best to consult with a specialist. He will evaluate your condition to check its severity and guide you to make an informed treatment choice.

3.4 Side-effects and Risks of Mirena IUD

Like with any IUDs, the Mirena IUD can also cause some side effects and risks. Some of these side effects can go away as your body gets used to the medication after the first couple of months. A few side-effects of Mirena IUD are:

• Pain, dizziness, menstrual bleeding during and after placement
• Low back pain, pelvic pain or cramping during periods
• Headache or migraine
• Acne and hair loss
• Tiredness and nausea
• Breast tenderness and soreness
• Vaginal pain
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Enlarged ovaries and cysts on the ovaries
• Expulsion: the IUD device could come out of your vagina by itself
• Decreased sexual desire
• Unwanted hair growth
• Weight gain
• Changes in menstrual bleeding patterns, menstrual bleeding between periods, or missed periods.

In rare cases, intrauterine device insertion can cause uterine perforation. If pregnancy transpires, the IUD could embed itself in the placenta. This could lead to foetal injury or loss of pregnancy.

3.5 Who Should Not Use an IUD for Endometriosis?

In some people with endometriosis, an intrauterine device (IUD) may not be a good treatment option. Listed below are conditions in which people with endometriosis shouldn’t use IUDs:

• If they are pregnant.
• If they are planning to have a child.
• If they have a pelvic or genital infection.
• If they have a history of cancer such as cervical or uterine cancer

Speaking with a healthcare professional is crucial to ascertain whether an IUD is secure and suitable for your particular endometriosis.

3.6 Other Treatment Options

Apart from using an IUD, there are other treatment options available for individuals with endometriosis to manage their pain and other symptoms. These may include:

• NSAIDs, short for Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
• OTC pain medications.
• Other hormone therapies like birth control pills, nasal sprays or injections.
• Surgery to remove the endometrial lesions or sever the nerves.
• Changes in lifestyle or diet can also be helpful to certain individuals.

Discuss these treatment options with your healthcare provider, they’ll help you make the right choice and determine if these treatment options are suitable for you.

To sum up

When it comes to the best IUD for endometriosis, Minera IUD is most commonly used. But, before you decide, it is best to consult with a specialist to choose an IUD treatment for endometriosis that is well-suited for you.

If you are looking for an Endometriosis Specialist in London, then get in touch with us today!

Neha Goel

Neha Goel, a Psychology alumna and MBA graduate from CASS Business School, London, brings together her expertise as a Reiki Practitioner and Practice Manager. She integrates psychology and business strategies to foster holistic well-being and personal development.