I've used a copper IUCD for about three years now, having never used hormonal contraception or implants etc before. I thought it might be useful for others to read my account and compare if they're considering a copper IUD or are concerned their symptoms are abnormal perhaps.
For reference, my periods prior to IUD insertion were often light /medium flow, lasted about 5 days, if they turned up, and included only occasional cramps (more of a dull ache), the occasional craving, acne or mood swing.
With a copper IUD I can pinpoint when a period will start to the day, near enough, they're that regular now (this is honestly the best thing!). About two weeks prior to the period I'll often get mild (ovulation?) cramp with some spotting. I can generally "feel" when a period is imminent too, like that heavy stuffiness before a thunder storm, I just kinda know, which is cool.
In the week leading up to a period I can get heavy cravings and low mood; anxiety, social withdrawal, negative self thoughts (kind of like mild depression), forgetfulness and generally feeling all over the place and not really on the ball, but these feelings ALWAYS brighten up a few days in to the period (I avoid alcohol at this time as this makes the low mood much worse).
Cramps are common place and vary in strength, so I keep a stock of pain relief just in case; cramps feel different at different cycle stages too I've noticed. They range from a squeezing, solid griping pain, a radiating ache or dry sharp scratching ((?) difficult to describe); sometimes accompanied by nausea, headaches and breast tenderness. A period typically lasts a full 7 days now.
I've had a few heavy flows and completely soaked through sanitary products, so now will check and change regularly to avoid disaster if that's the way things are headed. I've tried using a menstrual cup to accommodate the extra flow, which works well in practice, but if I've got heavy cramping I won't use it as putting it in with cramps going on is hardly appealing. I've filled a large cup in the space if an HOUR before; flow can be that heavy; light, light, mild, niagra falls... Blood clots are common too and can be quite large, with mild/moderate tiredness and fatigue.
These are just some of the changes I've noticed and thought to mention. However! Don't let this put you off if, like me you don't want to go down the hormonal contraceptive route. I like the copper IUD because it needs no maintenance and will last <10 years no trouble. My flow is as regular as clockwork. I have paid more attention to changes in body/mood and understand myself better, which is a nice confidence booster, like suddenly being slipped a cheat guide and you now know how it works and when to anticipate it!
Bleeding after sex with copper coil
