Talk to me about the coil?

[DorisShutt]

I have heavy periods and am borderline anaemic with low iron stores.

The GP has investigated for fibroids and PCOS to no avail - it just seems that I am unlucky. She has suggested putting in a coil to reduce the flow - type unspecified.

However, the Family Planning web pages seem to suggest that the coil will lead to increased bleeding - so now I'm confused.

So, do you have one, does it reduce periods and is it comfy?

I had one before DS. I reduced the flow only marginally tbh. You don't notice you've got in in though.

There are 2 kinds, hormonal and non hormonal and I think it's the hormonal one that is supposed to improve periods. My sil had one put in a few weeks ago for this reason so not sure if its worked yet.

Oh yep should have mentioned mine was non hormonal

I have a Mirena coil and no periods. Is good :)

I had a mirena for 6 yrs - periods stopped completely BUT had spotting and cramping on and off for first 2 years....

Did you know MN has a contraception forum?

There are quite a few recent coil threads, so you might find it helpful to have a read of what is in there.

I have a mirena. I spotted a lot for the first few months, but haven't had any other problems. No periods for the last 6 years, I don't know it's there (although you do have to check its there from time to time!). Insertion is quite uncomfortable- take painkillers before the appointment.