Does copper coil (IUD) cause period like cramps?

How our community feel they have been impacted by period like cramps on copper coil (IUD)

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

A great deal

28%

None or not sure

23%

A bit

18%

Quite a bit

16%

A lot

15%

Out of the 529 reviews for copper coil (IUD), 0 people (0%) reported period like cramps.

Reviewers that reported period like cramps as a side effect

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

Used for 6 - 12 mo
38 years old
🇬🇧 UK
  •  1 month ago

  •  Stopped using

I didn't have a problem with the insertion/ removal process. It was a bit uncomfortable but not painful. The first night I had the worst period cramps I've ever had, on and off for several hours, which was not fun but also not unexpected. During the 10 months I had the coil in, I experienced painful cramps before and during periods, which i'd never had before. My periods weren't heavier but they did last longer (7-9 days). Alongside this my cycle got shorter, so the amount of time I was on my period each month went up significantly. I felt that I was prepared for heavier and more painful periods, but not for longer ones. The final straw for me was having 2 periods in the same month, each lasting a week or more. Personally, that wasn't manageable for me so I had the coil removed. Looking back, I did experience more social anxiety than is normal for me during the time the coil was in, but I can't say how much the coil was the cause.

Read more

Top side effects not reported

0 helpful

0 comments

Used for 1 - 3 mo
28 years old
🇬🇧 UK
  •  1 month ago

  •  Still using

After 10+ years of having the implant, I decided to go for the copper coil as was keen to be hormone free! With the implant, I experienced hormonal acne around my jawline, tender breasts, low mood & anxiety, irregular periods and spotting. The procedure was unpleasant - a short sharp poking feeling when going through the cervix,it was really uncomfortable but it was bearable as was over quickly. I had intense cramps that evening. I then had around 3 weeks of consistent bleeding, but this was possibly a mixture Of having a period and bleeding from the procedure, it was hard to tell because of how irregular my previous periods were. Within a few weeks, I had more energy, improved moods, hormonal acne had cleared and my skin was amazing. My periods now last 5 days, but I have spotting for a few days before period starts. Periods are heavier in terms of having to use super absorbancy tampons for a few days, rather than regular absorbancy. But this is bearable. My periods are still a bit irregular as expected when coming off hormonal contraception. Overall 100% worth the discomfort for the feeling of being "normal"


Top side effects not reported

0 helpful

0 comments

Used for 1 - 3 mo
25 years old
🇬🇧 UK
  •  19th Mar 24

  •  Still using

I only had the copper coil fitted 6 days ago. At the appointment I was shown how to feel for the strings and how the insertion was going to go and although I know they need to tell you that I would have rather not known about hoe they insert it! I can’t lie the insertion hurt but the doctor was amazing making sure I tried to stay calm and offered me local anaesthetic, I think everyone is different I went with my friend the other day to get hers and she didn’t bat an eyelid so don’t let that put you off! I had quite severe cramps on the first day felt like sharp pains and painful period cramps. Since then I have had a dull aching pain, bloating and spotting that lasted 4-5 days the spotting has only just stopped but the dull pains and bloating remain. The dull pain and bloating has me worried however, I will try and ride it out in hopes it is just “settling in”. Overall, if this works it is 5 years covered without a worry and it will be totally worth it. I would recommend going with someone and them driving you to the appointment so you can find a more comfortable position to sit in on the way home after the fitting as I found sitting up straight quite unbearable the first day. It is still early days for me and compared to the mini pill it is already better as it has no hormones which made me depressed, gave me mood swings and made me gain weight. Just the dull pain and bloating which I hope will sort itself out in time.


Top side effects not reported

0 helpful

0 comments

Copper coil (IUD) common side effects

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

77% of copper coil (IUD) reviewers reported period like cramps

43% of copper coil (IUD) reviewers reported vaginal discharge

40% of copper coil (IUD) reviewers reported lower back pain

34% of copper coil (IUD) reviewers reported tender breasts

20% of copper coil (IUD) reviewers reported thrush


Possible copper coil (IUD) side effects

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

Best selling products in the UK

Levonorgestrel pill reviews


Top contraceptives for sale in the UK


Top 5 types of contraception for women

Order online

Order online now

Use our online prescription in under 5 mins

  • No GP appointment needed

  • Free standard delivery

Speak to a doctor

Not sure yet? Speak to a doctor

Schedule an appointment now

87% of women are happier with their contraceptive choice after speaking with one of The Lowdown's doctors

The Lowdown

Women's health, reviewed.

Get the best women’s health info in your inbox

You are signing up to receive The Lowdown's latest findings and news in women's health. Your data will be used in accordance with our Privacy & Cookie policy

Built by doctors and experts

Our tools are made by medical professionals for your peace of mind

Pharmacy services provided by Phlo Technologies Ltd. GPhC reg number: 9011171

When you click on some links on this site, we may get a small affiliate commission