When is hormonal coil recommended for uterine fibroids?

The coil releases progestogen inside the uterus and can make the womb lining thinner, which may reduce menstrual blood loss. It does not shrink fibroids or reliably relieve pressure, bulk symptoms or pain caused by a fibroid outside the cavity.

A fibroid that changes the shape of the uterine cavity can make insertion difficult or increase the chance that the device will move. An examination and ultrasound can help identify the number, size and location of fibroids before choosing this option.

Bring details of bleeding volume and duration, pelvic pressure, pain, anaemia symptoms, previous pregnancies and pregnancy plans. Ask whether the cavity is suitable, what alternatives could address the fibroid itself, and how bleeding will be monitored after fitting. Unexplained bleeding should be assessed before insertion.

Seek urgent care for bleeding that causes faintness or marked weakness, severe pelvic pain, fever, or a positive pregnancy test with pain. Contact your clinician if bleeding remains troublesome, you feel hard plastic, cannot feel the threads, or develop persistent pain or unusual discharge.

Ask whether the fibroid distorts the cavity, whether the coil is intended for bleeding control or contraception, what other treatments are available, and when imaging or review is needed.