What are the side effects and disadvantages of IUDs?

IUDs: the basics

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a popular method of birth control, with around 10% of women of a fertile age in the US using one. IUDs are more than 99% effective, meaning fewer than 1 out of 100 women using an IUD will get pregnant each year. There are two types of IUD: the non-hormonal copper IUD and the hormonal IUD, which contains a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone. 

IUDs are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, and are long-lasting. Once inserted, an IUD can be left in place for several years, meaning it’s a great choice for women who don’t want to think about their birth control on a daily basis. So, why isn’t the IUD used by everyone? Well, all birth control methods have their pros and cons, so let’s take a look at some of the drawbacks of using this popular contraceptive method.

The disadvantages of using IUDs

• An IUD is an invasive birth control method: this means you can’t just decide to stop or start using it when you feel like it. You need a healthcare professional to insert and remove the device. 

• Getting an IUD fitted can be painful: IUD insertion can be an uncomfortable process. For most, it feels similar to period cramps. Luckily, the pain should only last a few minutes during the procedure, and while you may experience some discomfort afterward, this should go away after a short time.

• The IUD may move or fall out: In rare cases, the IUD can fall out or it may move inside your body. When it’s being inserted, your nurse will show you how to check it’s in place properly.

• There are also some rare risks: It is possible to get an infection if bacteria gets into your uterus while the IUD is being inserted – and if this isn’t treated, it may affect your fertility. For most people the IUD is safe, and these types of risks are very rare.

• IUDs don’t protect against STIs: If you want to protect against sexually transmitted infections you will also need to use a barrier method of birth control, like condoms.

Side effects of IUDs

As well as these disadvantages, there are some side effects you should be aware of. We’re all different, so it makes sense we react to various birth control methods differently, too. However, there are some side effects that are more common than others – the type of side effects you may experience will depend on whether you’re using a hormonal or copper IUD. 

What hormonal IUD side effects should I expect?

• Changes to cycle length and regularity: Many people using a hormonal IUD will notice changes to their menstrual cycle, as this method works by stopping ovulation. On the plus side, hormonal IUDs may reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

• Hormonal side effects: Some individuals may find that the hormonal IUD may induce some other unwanted symptoms, including mood swings and breast tenderness. For many, these symptoms will go away after a few weeks or months, but for others, they may linger for longer.

• Lighter bleeding or no bleeding: Some people find that their periods get lighter or stop altogether. In fact, this is such a common side effect that the hormonal IUD is often prescribed for conditions like heavy periods, endometriosis, and fibroids. Some people do prefer to keep their period every month, so it’s important to consider whether this is something that would bother you before having a hormonal IUD inserted.

• Irregular bleeding: Another common side effect of hormonal IUDs is spotting between periods or irregular periods – but again, this usually settles down after a few months (between three and six months) once your body gets used to the IUD.

• Skin changes: Some people will also develop acne related to the hormonal changes in their body when using a hormonal IUD. 

• Ovarian cysts: Although it is rare, others may develop cysts on their ovaries – in most cases these are harmless and will go away on their own.

What side effects should I expect from the copper IUD?

As the copper IUD doesn’t contain hormones, you don’t need to worry about any hormonal side effects, like tender breasts, mood swings, or acne.

However, the major side effect of copper IUDs is that they often cause periods to get longer and heavier. Other related side effects can include:

• Irregular periods
• Spotting between periods
• Increased period pain and cramps

For most women, these symptoms are at their worst for the first three to six months after the IUD is inserted. Many then experience less painful, heavy periods – but for some, these symptoms may continue as long as the IUD is in place.

Can an IUD cause weight gain?

There is a perception that hormonal birth can cause weight gain. The jury is out on whether the hormonal IUD can actually cause you to put on weight. One study found that the hormonal IUD may have a small effect on weight, but more research is needed.

It’s important to remember that weight gain can be caused by a variety of different factors, and it’s unlikely to be solely down to your chosen method of birth control. If you’re concerned, it’s best to speak to your healthcare provider to understand what the specific risks are for you.

Do you get spotting after sex when you have an IUD?

Bleeding after sex isn’t a common side effect for either type of IUD. If you are experiencing spotting after sex, it could indicate that your IUD has been displaced – in which case, it’s best to speak to your doctor or OB-GYN to discuss the cause and treatment options. Bleeding after sex can also be a symptom of infection, so it’s best to get the opinion of a medical professional if this happens to you. 

Can the IUD affect my sex drive?

As the copper IUD is non-hormonal, it shouldn’t impact sex drive. That said, if you struggle with heavier periods or increased cramping while using this method, it may have a knock-on effect on your desire for sex. 

When it comes to the hormonal IUD, research is limited when it comes to its effects on libido. More investigation into this area is definitely needed, but research suggests a loss of libido is a side effect of various forms of hormonal birth control. 

Are there IUD removal side effects?

There are usually minimal side effects associated with having your IUD removed, and in most cases, it should be a quick and easy process.

You may experience cramping and discomfort while it’s being removed, but this shouldn’t last long. Many women also experience light bleeding or spotting after their IUD is removed, but again, this shouldn’t last long. 

When it comes to getting pregnant after IUD removal, there’s a chance you may be fertile straight away, so it’s important to start using condoms or another method of birth control if you want to protect against pregnancy. If you want to start a family, research looking at return to fertility after IUD usage suggests the average time to get pregnant after IUD removal is around four months. 

If you are still concerned about how long it may take to get pregnant after getting your IUD removed, you can always consider switching to a natural birth control method until you are ready to start trying for a baby.

Choosing the right birth control method for you

Everyone is different. For some people, the IUD is the perfect method of birth control, while it’s unsuitable for others. It’s all about making the right choice for you when it comes to birth control. 

At Natural Cycles, we believe that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to birth control, and only you know which method is right for you. NC° Birth Control is the first and only FDA Cleared birth control app, so if you’re curious about trying a non-hormonal method that’s also free from side effects, why not find out if Natural Cycles is right for you?