Post-IUD Removal Bleeding: What to Expect & When to Worry

Question
Hi.  I have used a Mirena IUD for three years and had a regular 28 day cycle during this time.  I had the IUD removed on May 22, 2007.  My last period was May 20 (it was very light until after the IUD was removed, at which time it was rather heavy and long).  My husband and I are trying to conceive and had sex on the days around when I should have been ovulating (which according to an online calendar was June 3).  On June 8, I began spotting and hoped that it was due to implantation.  It started very light, became slightly heavier, and then ended on June 16.  It was mostly light pink but some dark red blood was also present.  My period was supposed to start on June 17.  It is now June 19 and my period has yet to begin.  Two home pregnancy tests have been negative but the second showed a faint positive which then faded to nothing.  Did I experience an abnormal period due to the removal of the IUD or was it implantation bleeding?  Online research suggests that generally implantation bleeding doesn't last as long as did mine.  Thanks!

Answer
Dear Christie,

Typically implantation bleeding does not last that long. It usually only lasts 1-3 days. It can be pink, brown or red in color and is is lighter in volume and shorter in duration than a normal period. It typically occurs 6-12 days after conception and can often be mistaken for a period that is a bit early and light/short.

The Mirena IUD works with hormones in addition to the actual device itself. Sometimes the removal of the hormone can make the next few cycles a bit irregular until your body adjusts. This may or may not be what is going on with you.

You also need to allow ample time for a test to have an accurate result. hCG can rise slowly in very early pregnancy sometimes. I usually recommend that women wait until the week after a missed or spotty period before testing. I would suggest that you wait for this week and see what happens. If you still do not have a period, then go ahead and test again on or about 6/24. Make sure to use 1st morning urine to get a concentrated sample for the most accurate results.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda