Hormonal coil (IUS) and acne

How our community feel hormonal coil (IUS) has affected their skin

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

No change

21%

Don't know

6%

Out of the 894 reviews for hormonal coil (IUS), 85 people (10%) reported acne.

Reviewers that reported acne as a side effect

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

Used for 1 - 3 mo
27 years old
🇬🇧 UK
  •  3 days ago

I got the Benilexa IUS to treat painful periods and PMS. However, within under two months, it severely exacerbated my PMS, causing sleep deprivation, frequent panic attacks, bouts of crying, and increased suicidal thoughts. This was also experienced during my period. Most importantly, it has completely disrupted my Psoriatic Arthritis management. Despite being on a biologic (adalimumab), the IUD has triggered a massive flare in my right foot that has now progressed to my left foot and ankle. I went from rarely needing NSAIDs to relying on daily ibuprofen. Regarding my psoriasis, I noticed a slight change in dryness/thickness in scales but not much else. My periods were even more awful than before and I had to call sick into work which l've never had to do. I further experienced fluctuating pelvic and ovary pain, with some days better than others. I expected side effects, but not to this extreme, system-wide level. I understand for some women the IUS is life changing in a positive way and a great treatment for endometriosis, etc. However, for other women, it may not be suitable for our body, especially if you have pre-existing conditions like myself. Whether that's due to the small amount of hormones released into the blood stream or the body reacting to a foreign object to the body. Or even both. Please do your research and consult with professionals if you have specific conditions or autoimmune diseases. Because most of the time, they won’t or care to understand your concerns. I've thankfully had it taken out today and was told by the GP it would take a few weeks to see a positive adjustment, flare reduction, and difference to body/mind, to my joints especially. You know your body best, any triggers and what helps. If you have a terrible experience like mine, don't let anyone tell you to put up with the lUS a few more months just to see if it "settles", etc. Advocate for yourself and try all avenues. I’m lucky my threads today were visible as they were not at the last GP appt. And I’m very grateful I had a caring and understanding GP who listened, affirmed my concerns (such as assessing my joints), and believed me.

Read more

Very negative mood

1 more effect

0 helpful

0 comments

Used for 6 - 12 mo
25 years old
🇬🇧 UK
  •  2 weeks ago

Super convenient; few side effects though not negligible.


Somewhat negative mood

1 more effect

0 helpful

0 comments

Used for 3 - 6 mo
42 years old
🇬🇧 UK
  •  1 month ago

I've had the mirena coil for four months, I'm still bleeding irregularly (period every 8 days) and lots of spotting. I've been dizzy for months, I'm feeling very low, I have water retention and a lot of lower back pain that feels like a pinched nerve so I'm battling to concentrate on work. I really want to have it removed but I'm terrified of going back to the alternative of extreme heavy periods that made me anemic.


Somewhat negative mood

2 more effects

0 helpful

0 comments

Hormonal coil (IUS) common side effects

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

62% of hormonal coil (IUS) reviewers reported period like cramps

44% of hormonal coil (IUS) reviewers reported tender breasts

39% of hormonal coil (IUS) reviewers reported vaginal discharge

29% of hormonal coil (IUS) reviewers reported lower back pain

27% of hormonal coil (IUS) reviewers reported breast enlargement


Possible hormonal coil (IUS) side effects

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

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 Footer

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

Our website uses affiliate links and we may earn a small commission if you click on them