Copper coil (IUD) and heavier periods
Reviewers that reported heavier periods as a side effect
Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews
Used for 1 - 3 mo
37 years old
🇬🇧 UK
• 2 weeks ago
I may have only had mine for 6 weeks but am currently very happy with my decision. Decided to get it to prevent a potential pregnancy as the morning after pill was potentially not going to be effective for where I was in my cycle. The insertion was uncomfortable as expected but the nurses were phenomenal, i was given a lidocaine gel and they talked me through every step. Had 24hrs of quite hefty cramps and light bleeding post insertion and it triggered my period early a few days later which was longer and heavier than my usual, but since then things have got back to normal in terms of my cycle length and symptoms I usually experience throughout and my next period came on time. Yes it’s heavier, a bit longer and the cramps are sometimes tough, but with a good regimen of painkillers, hot water bottles and being kinder to myself, i would take that over the risk of pregnancy any day. My partner doesn’t feel the strings when we have sex either. Will update in a few months 😊
Top side effects not reported
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Used for 18 mo - 3 yr
37 years old
🇬🇧 UK
• 21st Dec 25
Changed from mini-pill after 16 years as I wanted to know my body without hormones and start to understand my cycle better. No issues with the copper IUD. My periods are a bit heavier but they are more predictable and regular. I do have more cramps but they are manageable. Insertion was fine, just uncomfortable. I was surprised how quickly the cramping started after though. I was in quite a bit of pain for an about a week as it settled in.
Top side effects not reported
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Used for 18 mo - 3 yr
26 years old
🇬🇧 UK
• 3rd Nov 25
I genuinely love my copper coil (IUD) that lasts 10 years, and I wanted to write this review as I used to hear horror stories about it and it almost put me off, but I didn't experience this and I want to reassure others that may be considering this. I got my copper coil in March 2023 after an unwanted pregnancy as a last resort. No hormonal contraception worked for me and I often experienced negative side effects, so I felt my last attempt was the copper coil. What a GREAT choice! Yes, the insertion is uncomfortable, but I asked for cervical numbing cream and it was mildly uncomfortable for two minutes. Definitely bearable with numbing cream. Since then, my periods are still regular a little bit heavier. and I do get a few more cramps. Very easily managed with a menstrual cup and painkillers. I love not having to think about my contraception, and I don't need to think about getting it replaced for TEN years. What a dream! It's a life saver for those of us that struggle with hormonal contraceptives.
Top side effects not reported
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Copper coil (IUD) common side effects
Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews
75% of copper coil (IUD) reviewers reported period like cramps
41% of copper coil (IUD) reviewers reported vaginal discharge
40% of copper coil (IUD) reviewers reported lower back pain
32% of copper coil (IUD) reviewers reported tender breasts
19% of copper coil (IUD) reviewers reported thrush
