Mirena and bleeding

[user781]

I had a coil fitted for heavy periods about 2 years ago and haven't had a period for approx 18 months. In the last 2 days I've started bleeding with low abdominal pain. Any idea what should I do - do I go the the GP? I'm worried because my Mum died of ovarian cancer - I know it is highly unlikely to be this but I can't help worrying that it is something sinister.

[Bluenose51]

I originally had a Mirena for heavy periods and it lasted about 4 years, the second coil was the same but the third only lasted 18 months. I started to bleed and was referred by my gp for an ultrasound scan, as the bleeding was unusual for me. They found that my uterine lining is thickened. I am 51 and peri-menopausal and the specialist thinks this is the reason. I had a hysteroscopy last Friday and now waiting for the results but he was very reassuring and doesn’t think there is anything serious going on. He has also replaced the Mirena.

[AskEveTeam]

Hi there,

Thanks for posting your question, and we're sorry that you're having a worrying time over some bleeding at the moment. It's perfectly normal to feel stressed, and as though something serious is going on, especially after what you've been through with your lovely Mum and her ovarian cancer. It's very unlikely that this bleeding is a sign of ovarian cancer, and only about 20-25% of ovarian cancers are hereditary, so the chances of you going through the same as Mum are low.

That being said, it's still important to get this bleed investigated, just to be extra safe. It could well be that your coil needs changing a bit sooner than normal. It's not uncommon for them to stop working/become less effective at the 2 year mark, hence the bleed which isn't your normal. We suggest going to see your GP and explaining the situation, then he/she can make the appropriate referral if needed or change your coil a bit earlier than normal.

Wishing you all the best,

Ask Eve