Medically Reviewed by Meghan Killilea Galli, APRN, FNP-BC
If you’ve recently had your intrauterine device (IUD) removed, you may be wondering what your first menstrual cycle will be like. Many Hartford women ask: “Is it normal to bleed after IUD removal?” or “How heavy will my first period be after Mirena removal?”
The truth: your 1st period after IUD removal can vary depending on whether you had a hormonal IUD (like Mirena, Kyleena, or Skyla) or a copper IUD (ParaGard). As a Family Nurse Practitioner, I’ll walk you through common symptoms, what’s normal, and when to call your provider.
IUD Removal: What Happens
IUD removal is usually a quick, in-office procedure. Your provider gently pulls on the IUD strings, and the device slides out. Most women feel only mild cramping.
Where can I get my IUD removed in Hartford?
These clinics handle both routine and complex removals.
IUD Removal Side Effects
After removal, you may notice:
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Cramping for a few hours
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Spotting or light bleeding
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Hormonal shifts (if using Mirena or other hormonal IUDs)
These side effects are short-term, but they can affect your first period after IUD removal.
When to Expect Your First Period After IUD Removal
Hormonal IUD (Mirena, Kyleena, Skyla, Liletta):
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Your period may return within 4–8 weeks.
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Some women experience a first period after Mirena removal that is heavier than usual.
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Hormonal changes can trigger temporary symptoms, sometimes called the Mirena crash (mood swings, acne, irregular bleeding).
Copper IUD (ParaGard):
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Periods often return almost immediately.
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Your period 2 days after IUD removal may actually just be withdrawal bleeding, not your true cycle.
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Your real period should return within 4–6 weeks.
Bleeding After IUD Removal: Is It Normal?
Yes. Many Hartford women ask: “Why am I bleeding after IUD removal?” Spotting or light bleeding is common for a few days.
Signs of normal bleeding:
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Light spotting for 1–2 days
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Mild cramping
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Brownish or pink discharge
Signs to call your provider:
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Heavy bleeding after IUD removal (soaking pads every 1–2 hours)
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Large blood clots
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Severe pain
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Fever or foul-smelling discharge (signs of infection)
First Period After Mirena Removal: What to Expect
Hormonal IUD users often report:
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Heavier first period after years of light or absent cycles
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More cramps than they remember
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Temporary irregular cycles as hormones rebalance
If you had minimal or no periods while using Mirena, your first period may feel intense. This is normal as your body resets.
Fertility After IUD Removal
One of the most common questions is: “How long after IUD removal can you get pregnant?”
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Fertility can return immediately after removal.
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Some women conceive 1 week after IUD removal.
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For others, it may take a few months for cycles to regulate.
Early signs of pregnancy after IUD removal:
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Missed period
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Breast tenderness
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Nausea
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Fatigue
If you’re not ready for pregnancy, use backup birth control right away.
Can You Have Sex After an IUD Removal?
Yes. You can typically resume sex once cramping and spotting resolve, usually within 24–48 hours.
However, unless you want to become pregnant, use another form of contraception immediately.
How to Prepare for IUD Removal
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Take an over-the-counter pain reliever beforehand to ease cramps.
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Plan for light bleeding after the procedure.
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Schedule the removal when it’s convenient to rest afterward, especially if you’ve had side effects in the past.
Weight Gain and Other Symptoms After IUD Removal
Some women worry about weight gain after IUD removal. Weight changes are usually due to hormonal shifts or fluid retention, not the removal itself.
Other temporary symptoms can include mood swings, acne, and irregular bleeding — especially after Mirena or other hormonal IUDs.
FAQs: First Period After IUD Removal
1. How long after IUD removal do you bleed?
Spotting is common for 1–2 days, but your real period usually comes in 4–6 weeks.
2. Is it normal to bleed after IUD removal?
Yes, light spotting or bleeding is expected. Heavy bleeding should be checked by your provider.
3. How soon can you get pregnant after IUD removal?
Immediately. Some women conceive within the first cycle.
4. What is the Mirena crash?
A term used to describe mood changes, acne, or irregular bleeding after Mirena removal as hormones adjust.
5. Can you have sex after IUD removal?
Yes, once you’re comfortable — but use contraception right away if you’re not trying to conceive.
Hartford Resources for IUD Care
Local providers offering IUD removal, follow-up, and fertility planning:
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Hartford HealthCare Women’s Health
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Saint Francis OB/GYN Clinic
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UConn Health Women’s Specialty Services
Final Thoughts
Your 1st period after IUD removal may be different than what you’re used to — heavier, lighter, earlier, or later. For most Hartford women, this is normal as the body resets. Fertility can return right away, so planning is key whether you’re trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy.
At HealthGardeners, I’m here to help Hartford women navigate IUD removal, menstrual changes, and fertility planning with clarity and confidence.
Disclaimer: This is informational content, not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Meghan Killilea Galli, APRN, FNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in Connecticut with over 5 years of clinical experience in urology, women’s pelvic health, and primary care. She currently practices with Hartford HealthCare and Griffin Faculty Practice Plan, where she provides evidence-based, patient-centered care. Meghan founded Health Gardeners to make reliable health information accessible for Hartford residents and beyond. Read More 