No Period for Over 7 Years
Hello everyone! I'm a 25-year-old female and I haven't experienced a menstrual cycle in roughly nine years. For the last seven years, I've been using the Kyleena IUD for contraception. I’m not overly concerned about it being a problem; I'm just intrigued about why this occurs, especially since I know individuals with IUDs who have regular bleeding. My gynecologist typically responds with, "it's just something that happens," yet I do experience symptoms like cramps, lower back discomfort, and occasional brown spotting. So, I’m left wondering: why do some women experience this absence of periods while others do not? Or is it truly just a matter of, "these things happen sometimes"?
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 4:20:31 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be curious about the absence of your menstrual cycle, especially after such a long period. Your case isn’t uncommon; many women experience changes in their menstrual cycles due to various factors, including hormonal birth control like the Kyleena IUD. However, persistent amenorrhea (absence of periods) can have several underlying causes worth exploring.
Explanation
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Hormonal Influence: The Kyleena IUD contains levonorgestrel, a hormone that thins the uterine lining. Over time, this can prevent the buildup of tissue that typically leads to a menstrual bleed. This is often considered a normal effect of IUDs and is noticed more frequently with hormonal types.
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Individual Variation: Every woman's body reacts differently to hormonal changes. Some may still have regular periods, while others may not bleed at all. This variance can be influenced by factors like body weight, stress levels, genetics, and overall health.
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Other Conditions: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other hormonal imbalances can also cause amenorrhea. Lifestyle factors, such as significant weight loss or intense exercise, can contribute as well. Given your symptoms like cramps and back discomfort, it may be beneficial to ensure there are no other underlying issues.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Track your symptoms, including any spotting, cramping, or changes in discomfort. This information can be beneficial for your healthcare provider if further investigation is needed.
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Consider a Hormonal Assessment: If your symptoms continue or increase, checking hormone levels (such as thyroid hormones, testosterone, or estrogen) may help determine if there’s an underlying condition affecting your cycles.
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Stay Informed and Communicate: Don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns and experiences with your gynecologist, especially regarding symptoms like cramping and spotting that may not be typical for everyone using the IUD.
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Evaluate Lifestyle Factors: If applicable, assess factors like stress, diet, and exercise to ensure they aren’t contributing to hormonal imbalances.
While it's possible that your situation is simply how your body responds to the IUD, it’s always good to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare team to ensure that your reproductive health is appropriately managed. Let me know if you have more questions or if there's anything else I can assist you with!
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