My period lasts a full 7 days, which is undesirable for numerous reasons. Anything I can do to shorten it (I use a non-hormonal IUD)?

Evelyn Resh MPH,CNM (Certified Sexuality Counselor & Nurse-Midwife) answered (9/14/2012)

I know this answer may sound crazy, but you could use birth control pills. I have done this before with women who have your same complaint. If they have a very heavy cycle and their period lasts a full week, the hormones will curb both. I realize you have an IUD for contraception and the fact that you're using a Paragard tells me that you would rather not have any hormonal method for contraception. But, there isn't really any other way to shorten the length of your period. Also, keep in mind that sometimes, longer and heavier cycles are a side effect of the Paragard.

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Anonymous commented (9/14/2012)

I agree! I used to have a long (and very painful) period but when I went on the pill (Loestrin24) it really shortened it. Now I'm on one of those pills that's a 3 month cycle, so you only get your period once every 3 months. It's amazing!

Anonymous commented (9/14/2012)

Thank you for this response! But what if I can't take hormones? Is there anything else that can be done?

EXPERT

Melicia Escobar, MSN, CNM (Certified Nurse Midwife) answered (9/17/2012)

I agree with Evelyn. If you are unable to use or do not wish to use hormones, you can also try regular exercise. Exercise not only has the potential to decrease your flow, but may ease some of the other symptoms that women with heavy flows experience. As always, consult your doctor before taking up a new exercise routine, especially if you are currently pretty sedentary.