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Contraceptive Coil & Menopause

An IUD (intra-uterine device or contraceptive coil) can be used by women of any age for contraception, and that includes women who are in perimenopause, which is the time leading up to full menopause--the complete cessation of periods when contraceptives are no longer necessary.

  1. Features

    • If an IUD (contraceptive coil) is inserted after a woman is 40 years old, it can remain in the uterus without being changed until menopause, according to Menopausematters.co.uk. GP-training.net concurs that a copper IUD can be left in the uterus until after menopause.

    Specific Type of IUD

    • The Mirena coil is different from the copper coil because only small amounts of hormone are absorbed into the woman’s bloodstream, which is much less than what would be absorbed if a woman were to take the pill.

    IUD and HRT

    • Furthermore, the Mirena coil is a source of progesterone and it combines well with estrogens that may be taken (hormone replacement therapy or HRT) by women who are nearing menopause, notes iVillage.co.uk. This method of contraceptive prevents undesirable effects of estrogen on the endometrium or uterine lining.

    Estrogen Risks

    • There are dangers related to too much estrogen, particularly when a woman is nearing menopause. It can increase the risk of breast cancer.

    Potential

    • IUDs can cause bleeding or longer than normal menstrual periods, particularly during the first three to six months of use, according to Patient.co.uk. However, the progestogen-only device, the Mirena coil, as discussed earlier, actually reduces menstrual bleeding.

    Recommendation

    • Womentowomen.com notes that the coil is a good option for a woman who is infection free; has had at least one pregnancy, which allows for easier insertion; who doesn’t have fibroids and who is in a monogamous relationship.

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