In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R’ Avraham

In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

Increased staining on Mirena after 4 years
May 15, 2024

Question

I’m 44 and have had a mirena IUD for about 4.5 years. The first 4 years I only had some very light spotting or stains but didn’t even require a pantyliner.
Over the last 6 months I’ve noticed that I’m spotting sooner after mikveh. I feel like it lasts a bit longer too. I can stain like this for 7 days …it’s only 12 days after mikveh and I have a dark brown stain on a panty liner. It’s probably the size of a penny. I do not need to change the pantyliner at all.
I was considering this my new “niddah,” but am I considered niddah? Or am I never actually niddah if that’s all that happens monthly?
Tysm for this website.

Answer

Thank you for reaching out to us.
Though Mirena can provide effective contraception for much longer, its hormonal effects tend to wane at around the five-year mark. If you find that the spotting continues and is disruptive, then you may wish to consult your physician about whether you should replace the Mirena.
We view staining such as you describe on a disposable pantyliner as a stain on a surface not susceptible to ritual impurity, and thus as not making a woman niddah.
This is the case even if the staining continues for days and even if this happens on a roughly monthly basis. Learn more here.
Please be in touch with any further questions.

 

Yoatzot Halacha: Answering Women’s Halachic Questions

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