Side Effects of IUC

The discussion about contraception should include disclosure of potential risks, and side effects. Risks of placement are discussed in detail here.

For more information concerning bleeding patterns, see section on Menstrual Changes.

• Progestin side effect of LNG-IUS may occur, but tend to decrease over time. These are the most common reasons for elective LNG-IUS (LNG-20) removal.
• Reduced menstrual flow volume is also an effect associated with all LNG-IUS’.

‡Ovarian Cysts

• In clinical trials, ovarian cysts were reported as adverse reactions if they were abnormal, non-functional cysts and/or had a diameter >3 cm on ultrasound examination, regardless of presence/absence of symptoms.
• Most ovarian cysts are related to anovulation and do not require a follow-up.

*Commonly reported side effects based on product monographs.
‡In a randomized-control trial comparing Cu-IUD to LNG-20, acne was reported in 3% of CU-IUD vs. 5% LNG-20 users.

Black D. and Waddington A. et al. Build Your Expertise: IUC slide deck: 37-39, 42, 61.
Costescu D. and Guilbert E. et al. Preceptorship Program on IUC insertion - Module 2
SOGC Clinical Practice Guideline, Canadian Contraception Consensus (part 3): Chapter 7 – Intrauterine Contraception