Side Effects of the Coil – Golden Article

Side Effects of Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

The side effects associated with IUDs may include the following:

The copper IUD is coated with a layer of copper that eliminates sperm without releasing hormones. Key side effects of the copper IUD include:

Common side effects associated with hormonal IUDs include:

Vulvovaginitis (inflammation of the external vaginal area).
Pelvic pain.
Headaches.
Severe menstrual pain.
Breast tenderness.
Irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
Development of ovarian cysts.
Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy if conception occurs while the IUD is in place.

General side effects of IUDs may include:

Dizziness: This may occur immediately after the IUD insertion and typically resolves within a few minutes.
Cramping: Women may experience cramps similar to menstrual cramps in the days following insertion.
Ovarian cysts: One in ten women may develop ovarian cysts within the first year of IUD use. These cysts are usually harmless and typically resolve within three months.
Pelvic inflammatory disease: This is an infection affecting the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries, leading to abdominal pain, severe bleeding, chills, and fever.
Pain during insertion: Some women may experience discomfort during the IUD placement, which can be alleviated with pain relievers such as ibuprofen prior to the procedure.

Potential complications related to IUD use may include:

Uterine perforation: Incorrectly inserting the IUD can result in a perforation of the uterine wall. If this error occurs, the IUD may migrate to nearby pelvic organs, causing damage that may require surgical intervention.
Infection: Infections may arise during the first three weeks following IUD placement; however, infections occurring later are often related to pelvic inflammatory disease.
IUD expulsion: The IUD may slip partially or completely out of the uterus, particularly during the first few months post-insertion, during menstruation, in women who have never given birth, or in younger women. It is important to note that the likelihood of conception increases significantly if the IUD slips out, thus alternative contraceptive methods should be employed.
Pregnancy complications: Occasionally, a pregnancy may occur despite the presence of an IUD, leading to a higher risk of complications such as miscarriage, subsequent infections, preterm labor, or ectopic pregnancy.