Hormonal IUDs prevent pregnancy for 3 to 5 years, depending on which IUD is used.
How well does it work?
Most women have a significant decrease in uterine blood loss with the LNg IUD. Some studies report up to a 95% reduction in blood loss.footnote 1 Increased spotting during the first couple of months is common, followed by less bleeding thereafter.
What are common side effects?
The LNg IUD can reduce menstrual bleeding and cramps and, in many women, eventually cause menstrual periods to stop altogether. In this case, not menstruating is not harmful.
The LNg IUD may cause hormonal side effects similar to those caused by oral contraceptives.
Breast tenderness
Mood swings
Headaches
Acne
These side effects are not common. But if they do happen, they usually go away after the first few months.
Fritz MA, Speroff L (2011). Abnormal uterine bleeding. In Clinical Gynecologic Endocrinology and Infertility, 8th ed., pp. 591–620. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.
Information about Levonorgestrel (LNg) IUD
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Fritz MA, Speroff L (2011). Abnormal uterine bleeding. In Clinical Gynecologic Endocrinology and Infertility, 8th ed., pp. 591–620. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
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