An I.U.D., also known as an Intrauterine Device, is a type of birth control that is inserted into the uterus and will last without replacement for several years. As of 2009, the FDA has approved two types of I.U.D.s: Paragard and Mirena. Paragard is a plastic device that is shaped like a "T" and is wrapped with thin copper wire. This device will last up to 10 years and contains no hormones. The Mirena is a plastic device that contains hormones and will last up to 5 years. Although both types of I.U.D.s are different, they do share a few common side effects.
Amenorrhea
Amenorrhea is the absence of vaginal bleeding. Some women believe that the blood is held within the uterus, although that is not true, according to Johns Hopkins University's ReproLine website. When using an I.U.D., the lining of the uterus is often thinner than it would be without the device. This is more common with the Mirena and can be associated with the birth control hormones that it releases. Without a thick lining to shed, the menstrual period will be light. Sometimes the lining can be so thin that a menstrual period will not occur.
Bleeding or Spotting
It is common within the first three months to have intermittent spotting and bleeding, according to the University of Washington. The human body is adjusting to the I.U.D. and uses the shedding of the lining of the uterus as a method to clean the uterus of any foreign matter. Bleeding and spotting may also occur due to irritation from the I.U.D.
Cramping
Cramping is a regular side effect of an I.U.D. With the Paragard, the cramping can be related to irritation from the copper wire that wraps around the plastic device. For those using Mirena, cramping is often associated with the birth control hormones that are being released. The best method, according to the University of Washington, is to take ibuprofen at the start of the menstrual period in order to minimize cramps.
Backache and Ovarian Cysts
With the Paragard, backache is a common side effect that can occur during the menstrual cycle, the University of Washington reports. This is mostly related to the uterus being irritated by the copper located on the I.U.D.
The Mirena may also cause backache, but is more likely to cause small ovarian cysts, the University of Washington reports. These cysts are caused by ovulation and may be painful. The cysts normally disappear within a few months.
