Copper coil and discharge (also can I really get pregnant at my age!)

[cashmerecardigans]

I have had a copper coil for 3 years now, fitted after many years on the pill, as I wanted to move to something without hormones. I've suffered on and off with bleeding between periods, sometimes the day after sex and have been to my GP severeral times. He's been great and I've been referred for scans etc as well as swabs for infection, to make sure there is nothing serious. It's often a browny discharge, rather than bright red.
One thing that has changed is that I now suffer from a heavy discharge for the majority of the time, that has a slight smell. It's bad enough that I wear a liner every day and I'm not sure if this is related to the coil?
A couple of weeks ago I had awful lower abdominal cramps, most likely linked to 2nd day of period, but a bit odd as I've never ever had period pain.
I really want it removed as I'd like to be know if the symptoms are related to the coil or more to do with my age (48). I guess I want to rule the coil out as a problem and I can then decide if I think I need to be referred to a consultant.
So, could anyone advise if this type of problems could be the coil and if the discharge would ease if I had it out? It's really annoying and I'm conscious of the damp feeling (sorry tmi!) and I worry that I smell.
We have discuused DP having vasectomy, but it seems a bit mad at my age - surely I couldnt get pregnant at nearly 49???

[chantico]

If you are under 50 and still menstruating, then yes you still need contraception. It is fairly rare to conceive spontaneously in your very late 40s, but it can happen. Standard advice is to continue contraception until period/free for a full year (over 50) or two years (under 50).

Yes, going thought the menopause can lead to all sorts of changes in bleeding (scantier, heavier, less regular), but you should never ignore new symptoms. So perhaps you need a gynae referral to establish what is going on?

Mirena coil is often recommended as it can ease menopausal symptoms. The dose of hormones is much lower than taking the pill. Is it something you might consider?

[beccajoh]

I had a copper coil put in about three months ago and I've had heavy discharge ever since. It's definitely not an infection. It's bothering me and I don't really want hubby going near me like this, although not an option at the moment for various reasons. I'm considering having it taken out because of the discharge but I really don't know what else to you. I don't want to use anything hormonal for several reasons, but mainly cancer related.

[beccajoh]

P.s I knew someone who fell preg with twins at 48 so take care!!!

[cashmerecardigans]

Thanks for your responses. I guess I knew I was being optimistic to think I could go without any contraception at all. I'm wary of the mirena as I've heard such conflicting reports about it, but its worth a discussion with the GP.
Becca, I agree, I'm not sure what else to do. The irony is I was really happy with the pill but stopped as I thought at 45 I ought to know what my body was actually doing, but I sort of regret it now.
Thnaks Chantico, I will get a referral. My GP has been great and investigated all options, including sending me for a follow up scan for peace of mind, but he's told me to come back if the mid cycle bleeding continues, so I'll go back.
Thanks for the comment re twins - what a terrifying thought. Our children are off our hands at last so the most I am condering is a dog!