Skyla and Spotting: What Users Say (Page 2)
Reviews for Skyla
- mnd...
- February 12, 2016
For Birth Control "Absolutely amazing! I was on BC pills for years but discontinued due to chronic UTIs associated with the estrogen in the pills. I've had Skyla in for over 2 months now and have almost no symptoms. No UTIs (YAY!). Insertion was a bit 'crampy,' but I get horrible cramps anyway, however, measuring the cervix was awful! It was a painful pinch but only lasted a few seconds, and it was over with. I had no spotting the first week (except after initial insertion). Spotting (very, very light) continuously for weeks 2-3, then nothing. My periods are almost nonexistent, but I'll get a few painful cramps as a reminder. My boyfriend cannot feel it during sex, and it has not moved. I am very, very, very happy with my Skyla! 21 years old, no kids."
- Sta...
- July 6, 2015
For Birth Control "I had my SKYLA IUD put in in August of 2014. It was the best decision I ever made. The cramps were not bad at first. It took a few days for the cramps to happen, then it was just slightly worse than normal period cramps. They only lasted for a couple of days. It took me about 8 months until my period completely disappeared. From September and onward, my periods were lighter. I did experience some in-between spotting, but it wasn't anything major and happened maybe 3 times tops, and the spotting lasted for 2-4 days. Again, not major and not unusual. Now, I did have a weird smell down there that my OB-GYN said was a buildup of bad bacteria. I was prescribed a vaginal cream which was similar to a yeast infection, it went away in 1 week."
See also:
Mirena
Mirena (levonorgestrel) is a plastic intrauterine device placed in the uterus and is used to ...
Provera
Provera is used for abnormal uterine bleeding, amenorrhea, birth control, endometrial cancer ...
Ozempic
Learn about Ozempic (semaglutide) for type 2 diabetes treatment, weight management, cardiovascular ...
Depo Provera
Depo-Provera is used as contraception to prevent pregnancy. It is also used to reduce pain cause by ...
Nexplanon
Nexplanon is a long-term, reversible birth control implant that lasts for three years. Learn about ...
Sprintec
Sprintec is used for abnormal uterine bleeding, birth control, endometriosis, gonadotropin ...
Yaz
Yaz (drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol) is used as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy. Includes ...
Slynd
Slynd (drospirenone) is a birth control pill used for the prevention of pregnancy. Includes Slynd ...
Lo Loestrin Fe
Lo Loestrin Fe (ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone acetate) birth control tablets are used to ...
Frequently asked questions
- What are the side effects of IUDs?
- Can antibiotics affect IUDs like Kyleena, Mirena, or Skyla?
- What are my birth control options and how effective are they?
- Mirena, Kyleena, Skyla & Liletta - What's the difference?
- Pet...
- Taken for 1 to 2 years
- November 24, 2016
For Birth Control "I've had Skyla for a year and three months; the insertion was painful and uncomfortable. I had some VERY light spotting, cramping, and a bit of nausea the first day, but by the following day, I was absolutely fine. All in all, this has been the BEST decision I've ever made in terms of birth control. Prior to Skyla, I took pills, and they wreaked havoc on my body and libido. After almost three years, I was fed up with the side effects, so I opted to try something new. I would recommend this IUD to anyone reconsidering their current method of BC. The simplicity and joy of not having to remember a pill every night, emergency prescription runs, and the improvement in the overall feeling of my body is incredible and well worth one day of discomfort."
- Ivy...
- April 30, 2015
For Birth Control "I got my Skyla inserted last Thursday, April 23, 2015. Today, it's been a week after insertion. Placing the Skyla was intense pain for me. Lots of cramping and pressure, which was very uncomfortable. After the insertion, I had cramps-very mild, but cramps-for the first few days. Three days after insertion, I had really bad cramps, and I had to take medication to relieve the pain. Today marks a week I've been spotting nonstop, which is annoying, but w/e that's a common side effect. The only thing I can say is that as soon as they inserted Skyla, I've lost my appetite completely. I spend hours without eating, and I don't get nauseous or dizzy, which is very uncharacteristic for me. I force myself to eat because I know I have to."
Are you taking this medicine?
Your review helps others make informed decisions.- MAR...
- August 26, 2019
For Birth Control "Well, I’ve had this product for over a month now. The insertion wasn’t so bad as I thought it would be. I took some ibuprofen an hour before, and it was uncomfortable, like a bad period cramp. I was a bit dizzy afterward, but that was it. I did get some cramping for the first 2 days, but I took some ibuprofen, and that was it. I did get it like a day before my period, so it did kickstart it as soon as I got it inserted, but this period lasted longer, about 12 days, or then I was spotting off and on. I did have sex with it, but I don’t think I’m pregnant. The week of my expected period, I got cramping, and then I started spotting lightly for about 2 days, and now I’m having darker red blood still, a steady flow, but it’s light, I don’t have to wear really heavy pads. I’ve had a couple of breakouts, but nothing that my skin routine can’t fix. I’ve actually lost 2 pounds ever since I got it. Other than that, I don’t have any problems as of now. Would recommend."
- Ang...
- October 4, 2016
For Birth Control "I'm a 23-year-old female with no children. So far, I had my Skyla for 6 weeks. One of the best decisions of my life! The insertion was painless during my period, and I have a low tolerance for pain, but I did take ibuprofen and Tylenol at least 30 minutes before the procedure. I did experience deep cramps for an hour, and my period vanished. I do spot on occasion, nothing a thin panty liner can't take care of...but I did notice I was very emotional this week than usual...I'm not a crier, but I found myself shedding tears 4 out of 7 days this week, and my sex drive is through the roof sometimes, and sometimes it's very low (I've always had a low sex drive), plus I've been sleeping a lot this week. I have my 6-week check-up this week, so wish me luck!"
More FAQ
- Can Plan B make your period late or cause bleeding?
- Can you drink alcohol after taking Plan B?
- How effective is Plan B and how late can you take it?
- How many times can you take Plan B?
- Ame...
- April 21, 2015
For Birth Control "Overall, I've had an amazing experience with this so far. It's been effective, and I haven't experienced any body changes like I did with the pill. Insertion was uncomfortable, and the cramping lasted for the rest of that day (worst cramps I've ever had). Bled a lot in the first 3 weeks, now I just occasionally spot throughout the month (I've had it in for 2 months now). I highly recommend."
- Cou...
- June 20, 2015
For Birth Control "DON'T LET THESE STORIES SCARE YOU!!! I am 20 years old and have never been pregnant. I read all of these reviews about how terrible the insertion process is, and I'll tell you my fear of this procedure was far worse than the actual procedure. It literally took about a minute, and it felt like my normal period cramps but just a bit intensified. It was SO QUICK and so easy. Pain was minimal. I'm on day two, and I have slight cramping and light spotting. No big deal. I'm happy I made this choice."
- haz...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- November 14, 2016
For Birth Control "I did not think the insertion was painful. I took 800 mg of ibuprofen beforehand and chugged a beer before I went in, didn't feel a thing. Some spotting afterwards, nothing much. Been in for 5 months and no issues yet. I get some pain in my right ovary. I think it's when I would be having my period, but I don't get them anymore. Just mood swings, sore breasts, and ovary pain, but no bleeding."
- amr...
- Taken for less than 1 month
- March 6, 2019
For Birth Control "I am a type 1 diabetic, so finding a birth control that wouldn't give me terrible side effects was necessary. I have previously been on 4 different BC pills, and each time ended up terrible. So I went to my gyno, and we discussed the IUD. I even discussed it with my endo (diabetes doctor), and both recommended I try this. I LOVE IT! I have only had it for a week, but it's enough time to see how my blood sugar levels are doing. My 'procedure' didn't hurt AT ALL (I have a high pain tolerance). I talked the entire time I was getting it done. There were mild cramps afterwards, but it felt like regular period cramps. I haven't had any spotting, which I was nervous about. Overall, don't let people's negative reviews stop you from trying different methods. Some do well, and others don't, but you will never know until you try it out."
- Tin...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- February 18, 2015
For Birth Control "I am 24 and have no kids. I have had Skyla in for 4 months now. I took an Aleve an hour before the IUD was inserted and had some pain right after the insertion for 5 seconds. Afterwards, I had two days of cramps and spotting, but nothing unbearable. Since that day, I have had no issues. I have more intense cramps around the time of my period, but my period lasts less than 3 days. The second month, I missed my period altogether, which made me nervous, but my doctor said it was normal, and I had my period the following month. I have no spotting between periods. I also do not have any mood swings, depression, or weight gain, which were side effects for me with oral birth control pills and the NuvaRing. I would definitely recommend Skyla."
- Anonymous
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- April 9, 2019
For Birth Control "I had Skyla inserted on March 6, 2019, and this is a follow-up post. My cramps have subsided, and I have had my first period with Skyla. My period was definitely lighter than ever, and I barely had any cramps, it was amazing! I only had to use a panty liner. I have been spotting every day since insertion, but it seems to have slowed down now. I do not feel any of the hormones messing with me. I have PCOS, and I am also on metformin to help with my PCOS, and I am still losing weight. I did not do well with the pill in the past. I’m 27, and I have never been pregnant before, so insertion was very painful. I also have a high pain tolerance. My obgyn even said that my body did not like that at all, and I did have pretty decent cramps for a month after. So far, I am happy with the device, especially since I do not have to worry about birth control now. Make sure you have a good doctor who has done a lot of insertions if you choose to get one. I would never trust my old doctor to put one in."
- Gre...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- September 9, 2016
For Birth Control "I was a little skeptical at first, given the fact that I went in for a regular Pap smear and walked out with an IUD. Overall, the insertion was painful, but tolerable. It was really fast. I never cramped before Skyla, so the cramps are my only complaint; but nothing Tylenol can't fix. After the insertion, I cramped for a good 12 hours. I got it a week before my period, so I got my period a week later; everything was normal except the bad cramps for about 10 minutes the day I started my period. After that, everything was normal. No spotting, no emotional moods, no weight gain. It is as if I am not on anything. No babies! Which is the ultimate goal. So far, I am happy. Periods are lighter, and sex drive is through the roof."
- how...
- September 5, 2016
For Birth Control "Before my procedure, I had researched IUDs extensively. Basically, all I was seeing was negative reviews. If you're the same, seeing if this is for you, this is a positive review for you to read! First off, the insertion. The worst part, by far, is when they clamp your cervix. I screamed Bloody Mary and cursed. The pain stopped once it was inserted. However, I did almost pass out after the procedure. I got VERY hot during the insertion and started sweating like a whore in church. After laying down for a while, I was alright to drive myself home. Two days post insertion, I've had little to few cramps and only some spotting. If you can get your head past the insertion, GO FOR IT! So far, I love it."
- Bel...
- November 8, 2015
For Birth Control "I've been on Skyla for about 3 months now. I wrote a review earlier within the first week I had Skyla inserted, describing how it all went. Now I get very light cramps every once in a while. I also get my 'period' regularly because of my two female roommates, when they get theirs, I get mine. But it's not a real period, just light spotting for about 2 to 4 days. I've also lost weight on Skyla (the pills made me gain weight and drove me crazy). Now I'm back to normal, but the only downside is I've been breaking out, bad, on my jaw area especially. Never had acne before until now, very frustrating. Trying to come up with a solution to the acne, if all goes well, I really won't have anything else to complain about Skyla. I'm 20, by the way."
- Anonymous
- Taken for 6 months to 1 year
- January 14, 2020
For Birth Control "I was very nervous to get any sort of IUD because I’m 23 and have never been pregnant. I went with Skyla because I am pretty sensitive to estrogen-based birth controls, and every pill I tried made my anxiety/depression unbearable. The insertion was overwhelming and painful-worst cramps of my life on ibuprofen 800. The first month or so, I was very bloated and crampy. After that, my body started to adjust. No issues with spotting, my period is a bit longer but much lighter (5-6 days). My anxiety seems back to the way it was before any type of BC, and I’m pretty pleased. The only downside is the cramps, they’re horrible the first day of my period, but I’ll take it over being a crazy anxious person. I also was getting bad acne the first 4 months, but that seems to have subsided. Everyone is different, but definitely need to let your body adjust. Hopefully, this impression stays the same for me for the next 2 years."
- All...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- August 1, 2017
For Birth Control "I've had my IUD for about 2 months, and I love it. The only negative thing for myself is the spotting. I'm 21 and do not have children. This is also my first form of birth control. I had Skyla inserted on the 5th day of my period, and the pain was very minimal. I did cramp slightly, but I was able to drive myself home. A few days after insertion, I had a slight breakout, which is odd for me because I generally have very clear skin, but my skin went back to normal a couple of days later. I have noticed some slight mood swings, but nothing too extreme. I also have been spotting a lot, but I know it's normal and will probably stop within the next few months. My boyfriend says he can't feel it either. I definitely recommend this IUD."
- She...
- Taken for 6 months to 1 year
- September 11, 2018
For Birth Control "So I have had an interesting experience so far. I had Skyla placed about 7-8 months ago. I use birth control for obvious reasons, however, also for heavy, long periods. Skyla caused lots of spotting for me. Periods have gotten lighter, however, spotting did not ease up. Going in again in a month to look into other options because I bleed more days out of the month than not. Wouldn’t be my first choice in birth control."
- Anonymous
- Taken for 6 months to 1 year
- July 21, 2017
For Birth Control "I LOVE MY SKYLA!!! Got Skyla in Feb. 2017 (no kids) and had one period and then no periods since. The insertion was crampy pain (bearable but uncomfortable), but quick, and I had no side effects immediately after and got up and left normally. I had some light spotting the next week, and now when my period is supposed to come, I may have a little extra discharge, but nothing else. I am a person who has struggled with horrible mood swings, cystic acne, heavy crampy periods, and no luck with any other BC, and I have tried nearly all of them in the 11 years I have been on BC. Skyla is the first time in my 27 years that I am acne-free, without mood swings, and the happiest and healthiest I have ever been using any form of hormonal birth control!"
- sav...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- December 4, 2016
For Birth Control "I chose Skyla over the pills because I have a horrible memory and I would forget to take one every night around the same time. Skyla's insertion isn't as bad as I read about it. I was terrified because of what online said about it. The insertion is about 10 seconds long of period cramps on steroids. I took two 800 mg of Advil beforehand, like my gyno suggested. I had cramps the first few days, spotting since I want to say October 3, 2016, to mid-November. My periods have been a day or two long with minimal to barely any blood. Highly recommended. No cramps, no headaches, tiny mood swings, a little acne, but nothing a face wash can't fix. I have had a loss of appetite, though, not sure if it is the Skyla, though."
- Anonymous
- May 7, 2015
For Birth Control "So I received the Skyla around Feb 3, 2015. It hasn't been that long, but it is very relieving knowing it's pretty impossible to have a child right now. The insertion was EXTREMELY painful. May have been worth it for that time, but I won't be doing it again. I have tattoos and a high pain tolerance, and it was horribly painful. It felt like someone was scraping my cervix with a knife. Anyway, everything seemed good. I started off with some spotting here and there, but it was so little that it didn't bother me. Now this last period is never-ending. Like I said, it hasn't been months or anything of straight bleeding, but I can tell that something isn't right. Skyla is new, so do your research."
- Sky...
- May 16, 2016
For Birth Control "I got Skyla thinking it would be the best birth control. Not so much. The insertion was painful and went home with slight cramps. Spotting only lasted for six weeks, but within the last four months, I have gained fifteen pounds, which is very bad. But not having to worry about taking a pill is good. But before you make the decision on this birth control, use some other options first because this should be the last option. Will be getting this removed very soon. Not liking my weight gain."
- don...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- October 4, 2016
For Birth Control "23 y/o, never pregnant; got Skyla put in Aug 22. Before Skyla, tried the pill - wasn't for me. Went in on the 1st day of period, wasn't too bad, did hurt for a quick sec when they put it in. Post-insertion cramps were probably the worst part. No Advil beforehand (mistake), so those hurt, nothing too crucial (I'd say I have high pain tolerance tho). Only had about 4 big cramps that day. Up until 4 days ago, I was spotting, so had to wear a pad, liner/light tampon. I'd cramp worse than usual around ovulation. 1st period was normal. Was pretty moody at the 2nd week, cried really easily. I've gained a few lbs, but diet and lifestyle also come into play there. Sex drive and acne haven't been affected. I recommend!! Everyone is different! Will update later again."
- whe...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- March 25, 2015
For Birth Control "I got Skyla in December 2014, and so far have had a great experience. I am an extremely busy 20-year-old college student, with previous negative experiences with the pill, and Skyla has been perfect. The insertion was quite painful, and I had cramps for a few days and then spotting for about a month afterward, but since then my periods have been getting lighter and seemingly a bit farther apart. My partner is a bit of a worrier, so having something that's close to 100% effective has been a real load off his mind, and since we both got tested, we don't have to use condoms anymore. ;) Not having to worry about birth control anymore has been fantastic. I would recommend Skyla to anyone looking for a low-maintenance form of birth control."
Are you taking this medicine?
Your review helps others make informed decisions.More about Skyla (levonorgestrel)
- Skyla consumer information
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Pricing & coupons
- Reviews (1,537)
- Latest FDA alerts (1)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- FDA approval history
- Drug class: contraceptives
- En español
For Birth Control "I got Skyla inserted a little over a week ago. I'm 22 and haven't had any kids. The insertion was rough. My legs and hands went totally numb, which was weird, but apparently not uncommon. However, it was all over within about 3 minutes. The pain was completely gone before the feeling in my legs and hands had even come back, and I drove home with no issues. I actually didn't even feel any cramping until today (9 days after insertion). Did anyone else have a delay in the onset of cramping, or is that just me? Anyways, I've had a little spotting, but it all happened exactly the way that my doctor said it would. I'm fine, and this seems worth it. I have a low pain tolerance and the worst imaginable anxiety. If I can do it, then you can too."