I Have An IUD In Place And Have Had It

Posted on Wed, 11 Dec 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : I have an IUD in place and have had it since February of 2013 and haven't had a period since it's placement. If I randomly start bleeding - like a super light and short period - should I be concerned?

Answered by Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
You need to remove the old device and place a new one.

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear, welcome Ask a doctor's service.
I read your query and here is my advice.

Usually an IUD can be used for 5 years then it should be removed.
Your IUD has been expired so you may need to remove it and place a new one.
The absence of periods may be caused by hormones because you may be having hormone device like Mirena and spotting may be caused since it has expired and causing hormone deficiency.
Also you should get examined for other issues such a pap smear and ultrasound to check for possible pathologies.
Go to your gynaecologist to remove it and place a new one.
Hope I have answered the question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (1 hour later)

The fact that I'm sexually active (without protection on his side) wouldn't contribute to the bleeding would it?

Answered by Dr. Olgeta Xhufka (15 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Pap smear is needed.

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear and thank you for asking again.
Being sexually active without protection would not cause bleeding.
You may need to do a pap smear also. Column uteri pathologies may make bleeding or spotting appear during or after intercourse.
Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad