Does the IUD Cause Hormone Imbalance? Signs, Symptoms, and What to Do About It
- Liz Riesen, RD
- Jul 23
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 12
If you’ve ever thought, “I haven’t had a period in months, but I still feel hormonal…” — you’re not imagining it.
Whether you have a hormonal IUD like Mirena or Kyleena, or a non-hormonal copper IUD, many women start noticing shifts in their bodies after getting one inserted.
If you’ve Googled questions like:
🔹 “Can an IUD cause weight gain?”
🔹 “Why am I moody on the IUD?”
🔹 “Is my IUD messing up my hormones?”
You’re definitely not alone.
Let’s clear this up: Does the IUD cause hormone imbalance?
Short answer: Yes — but how the IUD can contribute to hormone imbalance depends on the type of IUD you have. Hormonal IUDs (like Mirena, Liletta, Skyla, Kyleena) release synthetic progestin into the uterus. This can:
Suppress ovulation (in some but not all women)
Thin your uterine lining (which often leads to no bleeding)
Impact your body’s natural hormone rhythms
👉 Copper IUDs don’t release hormones, but they can still trigger inflammation in some women and may alter mineral balance (especially copper/zinc ratios).
Over the past ten years, working with women, I have observed common symptoms that develop after the placement of an IUD. These include:
Low energy
Brain fog
Bloating or digestive issues (IBS flares)
Anxiety, irritability, or mood swings
Low libido
Weight gain
These symptoms are often dismissed as “normal” or not linked to the IUD. However, it's important for women to know that their experiences with the IUD can absolutely differ from those of friends or relatives.
No period doesn’t mean no hormones.
Many women think, “I don’t bleed anymore, so I must not need to worry about hormone balance.” But here’s the truth: Your body still produces estrogen, cortisol, insulin, and other key hormones. These hormones still influence your mood, metabolism, energy, and more.
Common symptoms women report with an IUD include:
Fatigue and low energy
Mood swings or anxiety
Bloating or weight changes
Skin issues (acne, dryness)
Brain fog or feeling “off”
Low libido
These are not just in your head. Even without a monthly period, your body’s internal systems are still cycling and reacting to the IUD.
So what can you do? Support your hormone health with food and lifestyle.
Even if your period is gone, your hormones still need support. Here’s where to start:
✔️ Balance your blood sugar – Hormonal shifts are harder on the body when blood sugar fluctuates throughout the day.
✔️ Nourish your liver – It’s key for detoxing excess hormones (or synthetic ones). Focus on cruciferous veggies, fiber, and hydration.
✔️ Support your gut – Your microbiome influences hormone metabolism and inflammation.
✔️ Manage stress – Chronic stress leads to elevated cortisol, which can disrupt everything else.
✔️ Eat enough! – Undereating, especially fats or protein, can worsen hormonal symptoms.
Feeling out of sync since getting an IUD? You're not alone.
I work with women every day who are navigating symptoms after birth control, even those they were told were “low-hormone” or “local only.” If your IUD has you feeling off, there are real, evidence-based ways to get back in tune with your body.
💛 Want support rebalancing your hormones with food and functional nutrition?
You deserve to feel good in your body — with or without a period.
👉 Ready to Take the Next Step?
I created my Foundations of Hormone Balance Method™ and have been using it for years to help women like you support your body and hormones at any stage—on or off birth control. If you’re tired of guessing and want to feel energized, clear, and in sync with your body again:
You can click here to learn about my program or get in touch with me, and let's chat to determine the best option for us to work together.
Let’s build your hormone foundation together.
Liz Riesen, RD, CD
Registered dietitian and hormone health coach helping women address hormone imbalances, increase energy, and lose weight naturally. As a busy mom, I know that you need a clear and realistic approach you can fit into a hectic lifestyle. I developed my Foundations of Hormone Balance Method to meet this need. Helping women feel confident and comfortable in their bodies and with food is my passion.
Follow me @lizriesen
Want to Go Deeper?
If you suspect your hormones are out of sync, personalized nutrition and functional hormone testing can uncover what’s really going on. I offer 1:1 consultations and a comprehensive hormone testing package that dives into cortisol, estrogen, progesterone, organic acids, inflammatory markers, and more.
Tags: #HormoneHealth #IUD #IUDHormones #IUDSymptoms #BirthControlRecovery #WomensWellness #FunctionalNutrition #HormoneSupport #GutHealth
Understanding the Impact of IUDs on Hormones
The Role of Hormonal IUDs
Hormonal IUDs, such as Mirena and Kyleena, are designed to release progestin. This synthetic hormone can significantly alter your hormonal balance. It’s essential to understand how these changes can affect your overall health.
The Effects of Copper IUDs
Copper IUDs do not release hormones but can still impact your body. They may cause inflammation and affect mineral balance. Understanding these effects is crucial for managing your health.
Recognizing Symptoms
Many women experience symptoms after getting an IUD. These can include mood swings, fatigue, and digestive issues. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step toward addressing them.
Taking Control of Your Hormonal Health
You can take proactive steps to manage your hormonal health. Nutrition, lifestyle changes, and stress management are key components. By focusing on these areas, you can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with IUDs.
The Importance of Support
Navigating hormonal changes can be challenging. Seeking support from professionals can provide you with the guidance you need. Whether through nutrition counseling or hormone testing, there are resources available to help you feel your best.
Final Thoughts
Your health matters. Understanding how an IUD affects your hormones is vital for your well-being. With the right support and knowledge, you can take charge of your hormonal health and feel your best.