Expert: Norman Solberg - 4/27/2011

Question
I had a Mirena IUD inserted 6 weeks after my daughter was born. I believe it was January of 09. After about 6 months, I stopped having periods completely. I had spotting every now and again, but barely at all. I had the Mirena removed on February 24th, 2011 because I decided I wanted another baby. My period still hasn't returned 8 1/2 weeks later. My question is how long should it take for my period to return? My doctor wouldn't give me an answer on what is normal, just "it's different with everyone". Thank you!

Answer
Your periods stopped while the Mirena was in place due to the local progesterone effect of the Mirena on the uterine lining.  That effect is gone almost as soon as the Mirena is removed.  Since you haven't had a period since removal, that means that you haven't ovulated since removal.  That's due to your endocrine system and not to the Mirena.  Most women will ovulate and have a period within 1-2 months of removal of the Mirena.  Your not ovulating may be due to the fact that you're older or some other change in your system.  If you don't have a period by 3 months after removal, I would see your doctor for evaluation and possibly to take Clomid, which will help induce ovulation.