When is a hormonal coil recommended for iron deficiency anaemia?

A hormonal coil is placed inside the uterus and releases a progestogen locally. For some people, menstrual bleeding becomes lighter over time, which may reduce ongoing iron loss. It does not replace finding the reason for anaemia or treating low iron already present. A clinician may review your blood results, bleeding pattern, pregnancy plans, pelvic symptoms, and medical history before recommending it.

Keep a record of bleeding, including flooding, clots, changing protection at night, and missed activities. Discuss iron treatment and evaluation for other causes of anaemia with your clinician. Ask about insertion, expected bleeding changes, contraception, and alternatives. A pelvic examination and pregnancy assessment may be needed, and some uterine or pelvic conditions can affect whether insertion is suitable.

Seek prompt care for bleeding that makes you faint or breathless, severe pelvic pain, fever, or a positive pregnancy test with pain or bleeding. After insertion, worsening pain, unusual discharge, or concern that the coil has moved also needs assessment. Severe tiredness, paleness, fast heartbeat, or breathlessness can reflect anaemia requiring medical review rather than contraceptive advice alone.

Ask: Is heavy menstrual bleeding causing my iron deficiency? Should I have further tests? Is a hormonal coil suitable with my history? How will we monitor iron levels and bleeding? What alternatives are available?