Bleeding, cramping, and mild clotting are common after IUD removal, especially in the first few days. Some people also notice heavier bleeding or a heavier first period. Most symptoms are temporary, but certain signs—like large clots or excessive bleeding—may require medical care. Here’s what to expect after removing an IUD.
If you recently had your IUD removed in Hartford, you might be wondering whether the bleeding you’re experiencing is normal. Some patients message me asking questions like:
“Why am I passing blood clots after Mirena removal?”
“Is heavy bleeding after IUD removal normal?”
“What about clotting after IUD removal?”
“What is the first period like after IUD removal?”
The truth is: bleeding patterns vary depending on the type of IUD you had, how long you used it, and whether you are replacing it the same day. As a women’s health clinician, I help patients understand what’s normal, what’s concerning, and how to manage symptoms safely.
Below is a complete guide to bleeding after IUD removal, with clear answers, local medical expertise, and information you can trust.
Is Bleeding Normal After IUD Removal?
Yes. Light to moderate bleeding is very common in the first 24–72 hours following IUD removal. The cervix is gently opened during removal, and hormonal shifts can begin immediately—both of which can cause temporary bleeding.
Normal post-removal bleeding may include:
• Light spotting
• Brown discharge
• Mild bleeding similar to a light period
• Light cramps
• Small clots during the first day or two
This is your body adjusting to no longer having the IUD in place, especially if you previously used a hormonal device like Mirena or Kyleena.
Heavy Bleeding After IUD Removal: What’s Typical?
Some patients experience heavier bleeding after IUD removal, especially if:
• They had a hormonal IUD and are transitioning back to their natural cycle
• They had irregular periods before using an IUD
• The lining of the uterus builds up quickly after hormonal removal
• The cervix was more sensitive during removal
• They had the IUD for several years
Hormonal IUDs thin the uterine lining. Once removed, the lining thickens again, which can lead to a heavier first bleed.
How long does heavy bleeding last?
Typically:
• 1–3 days of light to moderate bleeding
• Up to 5–7 days for your first full period after removal
• Heavy bleeding beyond 7 days is less common and should be evaluated
If you are soaking a pad every hour for more than 2 hours, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Blood Clots After IUD Removal: Are They Normal?
Small blood clots can be normal after IUD removal. These clots usually look like:
• Small jelly-like pieces
• Dark red or maroon in color
• The size of a dime or quarter
Passing these clots often happens because the cervix briefly opens during removal, allowing built-up blood to pass more easily.
Why am I passing blood clots after Mirena removal?
Mirena contains levonorgestrel, a hormone that thins the uterine lining. Once removed:
• Your natural hormones restart
• The lining may shed more quickly
• Blood may pool slightly and clot as it exits
This combination can result in noticeable clotting after IUD removal.
When is clotting NOT normal?
Seek care if blood clots are:
• Larger than a golf ball
• Occurring with dizziness or weakness
• Passing continuously for several hours
• Bright red and accompanied by heavy bleeding
These may signal excessive bleeding or another issue that requires medical evaluation.
Excessive Bleeding After IUD Removal: Warning Signs
While most bleeding after removal is normal, some symptoms require attention.
Call your provider if you experience:
• Bleeding that soaks through a pad in less than 1 hour
• Severe cramps that do not improve
• Fever or chills
• Foul-smelling discharge
• Persistent bleeding for more than 10–14 days
• Severe dizziness
• Large, frequent blood clots
These signs could indicate infection, retained tissue, or an underlying bleeding issue that needs medical care.
IUD Removal and Replacement on the Same Day: Side Effects
Same-day IUD removal and replacement is very common. Many Hartford patients choose this option to maintain reliable contraception without interruption.
However, same-day replacement can cause:
• Cramping
• Spotting for several days
• Light bleeding
• A heavier first cycle
• Temporary discomfort from cervical dilation
What side effects are common after same-day replacement?
These include:
• Mild pelvic pressure
• Spotting for 3–7 days
• A few small clots
• Lightheadedness immediately after placement (rare)
If bleeding becomes heavy or you pass large clots, contact a clinician.
First Period After IUD Removal: What to Expect
The first period after IUD removal can vary widely.
If you had a hormonal IUD (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla):
You may experience:
• A heavier first period
• More cramping
• Irregular timing (period may arrive early or late)
• More clotting than you’re used to
• A cycle that takes 1–3 months to normalize
If you had a copper IUD (Paragard):
Your cycle usually returns quickly, but many notice:
• Heavier periods
• More clotting
• More cramps
• Longer bleeding days
The copper IUD can increase flow, so these symptoms may gradually ease over several months.
How Long Does Bleeding Last After IUD Removal?
Bleeding varies, but typical ranges include:
• Spotting: 1–3 days
• Light bleeding: 2–5 days
• First period: 4–7 days
• Irregular spotting: up to 1–2 weeks as hormones rebalance
Prolonged bleeding is uncommon but possible for hormonal IUD users transitioning back to natural cycles.
Does Fertility Return Quickly After Removal?
Yes. Fertility can return immediately. This surprises many patients—especially those who assumed bleeding meant they weren’t ovulating. If pregnancy is not desired, use backup contraception.
When to Seek Medical Care in Hartford
Schedule a visit if you experience:
• No period after 6–8 weeks
• Persistent pelvic pain
• Heavy bleeding that does not slow
• Foul-smelling discharge
• Large clots continuing for several days
• Severe pain during intercourse after removal
Your provider can evaluate for infection, retained tissue, or hormonal imbalance.
Tips to Manage Bleeding and Cramping After Removal
Many patients ease their symptoms with:
• Ibuprofen (if approved by your clinician)
• A warm heating pad
• Staying hydrated
• Wearing comfortable clothing
• Avoiding very intense exercise for 24 hours
• Tracking symptoms to identify patterns
For heavy periods or recurrent clotting, your clinician may discuss:
• Hormonal birth control
• Iron supplementation
• Ultrasound evaluation
• Underlying condition screening (fibroids, adenomyosis, etc.)
Final Thoughts: Most Bleeding After IUD Removal Is Normal
Bleeding, small clots, and cramping are all common after IUD removal—and your first period may be heavier than expected. But excessive bleeding, large clots, or prolonged symptoms deserve medical attention.
With the right care, most patients recover quickly and transition smoothly into their natural cycles or their next contraceptive option.
If you’re in Hartford and have concerns about bleeding after IUD removal, connect with a qualified healthcare provider who can evaluate your symptoms and guide you safely.
Disclaimer: This is informational content, not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Meghan Killilea Galli, APRN, FNP-BC, is a Connecticut-based board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 5 years of experience in urology, women’s pelvic health, and primary care. She practices with Hartford HealthCare and Griffin Faculty Practice Plan and founded Health Gardeners to share reliable, evidence-based health information.
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