Missed period and I have cramps but also have the coil

[Kayla24]

So I have the coil, I can't remember what coil I have. I've had it for nearly 3 years now and I haven't missed a period yet. My periods did however start becoming shorter, but I have missed my last period. I took a pregnancy test but it is negative. I am feeling stomach cramps like I'm going to come on but I have not as yet. What do I do? Also how long does the coil last I can't remember

[Hidden]

Dear Kayla,

I can only comment in general terms because I don't know what type of contraception you're using, either a copper IUD or IUS (hormonal device e.g. Mirena, Kyleena or Jaydess):

Important question- can you feel the thread/s?

If you can't, then you should get checked by your local sexual health/family planning clinic.

Assuming you can feel the threads, then here's what you should expect:

IUD- If you have the copper coil, it should last at least 5 years and periods generally tend to be heavier, not lighter than normal. Some copper coils are effective for 10 years.

IUS- A hormonal device will be effective for between 3-5 years and can be associated with no periods or light periods. It sounds like you've got one of these devices, but I'm just guessing. If you have a Jaydess device then it's probably time to get it replaced, as they generally last 3 years. Mirena and Kyleena last up to 5 years.

Here's the official information from the manufacturer, Bayer: hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedoc...

Here's what I think you should do:

1. Check for coil threads.

2. No threads- avoid sex or use condoms; arrange clinic appt.

3. If threads present but maybe you have a Jaydess device that's expired- avoid sex or use condoms; arrange appt for IUS replacement; start oral contraception in the interim

Rgds,

Adhari.

[Kayla24 in reply to Hidden]

Hi

Thank you for your help, the same day after my post I started spotting. But my periods have definitely got lighter and less over time. I'm guessing I have the hormonal coil. Because at the time of choosing what coil to go for i was breastfeeding. Maybe my coil last for 5 years I'm not sure. It's going to be a bit hard to try and get an appointment now with everything that is going on. That's why I thought I could get some advice on here.