The Intrauterine System (IUS) for
the treatment of period problems
An IUS is a T-shaped device which contains a manufactured progesterone (a hormone
normally found in the body), which is slowly released into the womb lining. It works for
approximately 5 years. It is also known as the Mirena coil.
How does it work?
The hormone released from the coil acts on the lining of the womb to make it thinner.
Therefore your periods will be lighter.
What should I expect?
At first, there is often irregular or longer bleeding, but most women find that after the first
few months, their periods become lighter than usual. Some women find that their periods
stop altogether. If this happens do not worry, as it is perfectly normal. When the IUS is
removed your periods will return.
What are the advantages?

Works very well for both heavy periods and as a form of contraception

Lasts for approximately 5 years

It does not interfere with your sex life

After you have used the IUS for approximately 3 - 6 months, your periods usually
become lighter and in some cases, stop completely

An IUS usually reduces or gets rid of period pain

Your fertility usually returns quickly when the IUS is removed

Any side-effects are usually minor
What are the disadvantages?
Most women have slight irregular bleeding between their periods for the first 3 - 6 months.
This can be inconvenient, but should soon settle.
Side-effects, such as headaches, acne and breast tenderness are uncommon and often
temporary. These side-effects usually stop after a few months.
Some women may have cysts on their ovaries in the first few months. These are not
dangerous and do not usually need to be treated and most disappear. Often there are no
symptoms, but some cysts cause pain.
The womb can push the IUS out (expulsion) or it can move (displacement). This is likely to
happen soon after it has been inserted. This is why you will be taught how to check for the
thread every month.
There is a small risk you may develop an infection that requires antibiotics.
In rare cases the IUS may go through (perforate) the womb or cervix when it is fitted. This
may cause some pain, but often there are no other symptoms. If this happens, the IUS will
have to be removed, occasionally by operation.
Can anyone use an IUS?
Not everyone can use an IUS. Your doctor will talk to you about your medical history.
Some of the conditions which may mean you should not use an IUS are:

If you think you may be pregnant or are pregnant

If you have fibroids
If you have now or in the past had:

Cancer of the womb

Active liver disease

Unexplained bleeding from your vagina (e.g. between periods or after sex)

A heart attack or stroke

An artificial heart valve - this will require specialist advice

Untreated sexually transmitted infections
If I haven’t had a child, can I use an IUS?
Yes. Having an IUS fitted may be slightly more uncomfortable if you have not had a child.
Are there any alternative options
Your consultant has recommended this procedure/treatment as being the best option.
However, the alternatives to this are hormonal and non-hormonal manipulation through oral
medications, minor invasive procedures that ablate the lining of the womb to ultimately a
major procedure such as a hysterectomy. If you would like more information about any of
these, please speak to your consultant or one of the nurses caring for you.
There is also the option of not receiving any treatment at all. The consequences of not
receiving any treatment depend on your symptoms. If you would like more information
please speak to your consultant or one of the nurses caring for you.
Where can I get an IUS?
Only specially trained doctors or nurses can fit an IUS. They can be fitted at a Family
Planning Clinic, by your own GP or a doctor at the hospital.
The treatment is confidential and free.
How is an IUS fitted?
An IUS is fitted and removed by a specially trained doctor/nurse.
The IUS is put in towards the end of your period or just after. The doctor needs to make
sure you are not already pregnant.
You will be examined internally to find out the size and position of your womb.
It can be uncomfortable having an IUS fitted. You may get a period type pain and some
bleeding for a few days. Painkillers can help with this e.g. Paracetamol. Follow the
manufacturer’s instructions and do not exceed the stated dose.
What if I feel unwell after the IUS is fitted?
If you feel unwell and have pain in your lower abdomen, together with a high temperature
or a smelly discharge from your vagina, see your GP as soon as possible as you may have
an infection.
How will I know that the IUS is still in place?
An IUS has threads attached to the end which will hang a little way down from your womb
into the top of your vagina.
The doctor or nurse will tell you how to feel for the threads. You should check this in the
first few months, after each period.
It is very unlikely that the IUS will fall out, but if you cannot feel the threads, or think you
can feel the IUS itself, you should contact your GP or practice nurse or the Outpatient
Clinic. In the meantime you should use an extra contraceptive method.
Rarely, your partner may say he can feel the threads during sex. This is not a reason for
removal, but the threads may need to be shortened.
Is it safe to use tampons?
For the first month it is advisable to use sanitary pads. After that you may use tampons or
sanitary pads during your period.
Do I need to see a doctor or nurse?
You will need to have your IUS checked by your GP or clinic 4 - 6 weeks after it has been
inserted.
What if I change my mind?
Any trained doctor or nurse can take out the IUS at any time.
Your normal periods and fertility return quickly after removing the IUS.
What if I get pregnant?
It is rare to get pregnant with the IUS. But if you miss a period or think you may be
pregnant, consult your GP.
Will I be able to get pregnant as soon as the IUS is removed?
Your usual fertility returns as soon as the IUS is removed and your periods recommence.
Remember, contact your GP if you are worried or unsure about anything.
If you have any queries, or require further information
please contact Ward 209 on 01332 787209.
P1012/1230/11.2012/VERSION3
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