What does a hormonal coil treat?

A hormonal coil, also called an intrauterine system, sits inside the womb and releases a progestogen locally. This thickens cervical mucus to help prevent pregnancy and makes the womb lining thinner. As a result, periods may become lighter, shorter, or less painful over time, though spotting and irregular bleeding can happen after fitting.

It may be considered for heavy bleeding associated with conditions such as adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia, or endometriosis, depending on the diagnosis and individual circumstances. It does not treat every cause of pelvic pain or bleeding, and it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Tell the clinician about your bleeding pattern, pelvic pain, pregnancy plans, medicines, previous infections, and any known womb or cervical problems. Ask how fitting is performed, what cramping or spotting to expect, how the strings are checked, and when review is needed. Discuss alternatives such as a contraceptive implant, copper coil, or a procedure if they better match your goals.

Contact a clinician promptly for worsening pelvic pain, fever, unusual-smelling discharge, suspected pregnancy, or bleeding that concerns you after insertion. Urgent care is needed for severe pain, fainting, or heavy bleeding with feeling unwell. If you cannot feel the strings or feel hard plastic, use another contraceptive method until you receive advice.

Is a hormonal coil suitable for my bleeding or diagnosed condition? What benefits and side effects should I expect? Which alternatives are available? How will we check its position and judge whether it is helping?