Question:
I'm 52 and am, according to my GP currently in menopause, following some blood tests. I have the Mirena in place, the current one is in since December 2019. My last Mirena was removed due to it moving into the lining of the womb. I am experiencing a brown discharge for the past 2 days with cramping and I have pains in my legs. Should I be concerned? Thank you.
Answer:
In responce to your situation, it is important to know if you are indeed in menopause. In addition to blood tests, menopause is diagnosed when you have experienced a full year with no periods. That may be hard to know with a Mirena in place since bleeding is often absent with Mirena. The perimenopause time of life can last many years and irregular bleeding occurs.
Sometimes a Mirena is left in place after menopause as part of the therapy for hormone replacement with estrogen. Knowing if you are on estrogen is important to your evaluation of bleeding. In general brown discharge would be considered bleeding.
Since you were told you are in menopause then any vaginal bleeding requires an evaluation from your healthcare provider specializing in gynecological care. Please see the disclaimer below in that I cannot advise your personal situation beyond saying that "post-menopausal" bleeding should be evauated. Leg pain is a broad, nonspecific symptom that would be hard to comment on.
Wishing you good health,
– Dr. Z
See disclaimer below
DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended to guide individual therapy. Answers should never substitute for consultation with a healthcare provider or counselor who can make decisions based on an individual’s history, desires, and circumstances. Always seek the advice of a clinician for any questions regarding health, medical condition, birth control method or other family planning or social issues. Under no circumstances should an individual use this information in lieu of, or to override, the judgment of a treating clinician. Dr. Zieman, or SageMed LLC, is not responsible, or liable, for errors, omissions, or any damage or loss incurred as a result of use of any birth control method or use or reliance on any material or information provided through this website.