Can You Use Tampons with an IUD ?

April 16, 2025

Yes, you can use tampons with an IUD. There are no medical contraindications, according to healthcare professionals. 🧑⚕️
However, there are a few precautions to take to avoid discomfort, leaks, or accidental expulsion of your IUD.

What Is an IUD and How Does It Work?

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small T-shaped contraceptive that’s inserted into your uterus. It comes with two thin strings that extend from your cervix into the upper part of your vagina. These strings allow your healthcare provider to check that the IUD is in place and to remove it when needed.

There are two main types of IUDs:

Copper IUDs: These release copper, a natural spermicide that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. Copper IUDs may make your periods heavier or more painful.
Hormonal IUDs: These release hormones that thicken cervical mucus, which blocks sperm. They often reduce menstrual bleeding or stop it altogether. This is the case with hormonal IUDs like Kyleena.

Are Tampons Safe to Use with an IUD (Intrauterine Device)?

Yes, tampons are totally safe with an IUD!
These two products sit in different parts of your body: the IUD is placed in your uterus, while the tampon stays in your vaginal canal. That means they don’t come into direct contact. 😊

Precautions When Using Tampons with a Hormonal IUD

Hormonal IUDs like Mirena or Kyleena can reduce your menstrual flow and in some cases, stop your period entirely.

If your flow is lighter than before, your usual tampons might no longer be the right fit. Using highly absorbent tampons with a light flow can cause dryness, irritation, or discomfort. 😖

👉 Tip: If you have a light flow, go for smaller-size tampons or use panty liners, they’ll likely be enough.

Precautions When Using Tampons with a Copper IUD

Unlike hormonal IUDs, copper IUDs (like Paragard) tend to make your periods heavier.
This means your go-to tampon might not be absorbent enough and you may need to change it every 2 hours or deal with occasional leaks. 🩸

👉 Tip: Use higher absorbency tampons for heavier days.
Still not enough? Consider trying disposable menstrual discs, made for heavy flows and better for your vaginal health.

Can I Use a Tampon After IUD Insertion ?

It’s strongly recommended to avoid inserting anything into your vagina for at least 24 hours after getting an IUD. That means no tampons, no penetrative sex, and no baths.
Some healthcare professionals suggest waiting up to two weeks before using tampons or having sex again.
This waiting period helps reduce the risk of infection and allows your body time to adjust to the new device.

Can I Use a Tampon After IUD Removal?

You might experience light bleeding after your IUD is removed but it’s not your period, it’s just a reaction to the removal itself.
For the first 48 hours, it’s best to use an external product like a pad or period underwear to give your body time to heal.
After that, you can safely go back to using tampons or any other internal period product.

Why Should You Ask Your Doctor to Trim the IUD Strings?

It’s a good idea to ask your gynecologist or midwife to trim the IUD strings a bit shorter.
This helps reduce the risk of the strings getting tangled with your tampon during removal.
If you accidentally pull on the strings while removing your tampon, it could shift or even dislodge your IUD, so it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

IUD Expulsion

Instant IUD expulsion is rare. It typically happens within the first few weeks after insertion or several years later (around the 3-year mark).

Uterine contractions are often the main cause, but other factors can also contribute.

How to Check If Your IUD Is Still in Place

You can check the position of your IUD yourself using your finger:

Insert a clean finger into your vagina until you feel your cervix, this is where the IUD strings should be located.
Check the length of the strings:
- If the strings feel the same as usual → your IUD is likely in place. 👍
- If the strings feel longer, shorter, or you can’t feel them at all → your IUD may have shifted.

In that case, schedule an appointment with your gynecologist as soon as possible.

📅 Tip: It's a good idea to check your IUD’s position at the end of each menstrual cycle.