Mirena

Mirena is a T-shaped hormonal Intra Uterine Device (IUD) that provides long-term contraception (birth control). It continuously releases a small amount of the hormone progestin in the uterus for about 5 years. Progestin thickens the cervical mucus making it difficult for the sperm to swim towards the egg and also suppresses ovulation (release of an egg from an ovary) preventing pregnancy.

Indications to use Mirena

Mirena is used to prevent pregnancy. It is also prescribed for women with severe menstrual pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, anaemia, fibroids, endometriosis, risk of endometrial cancer or pelvic infection, etc.

How is Mirena Inserted?

Mirena is inserted by a qualified gynaecologist or health care provider. Insertion of Mirena is performed within 7 days of when you start your period. The procedure involves the following steps:

Your vagina and cervix are cleaned with a mild antiseptic solution.
Your gynaecologist or healthcare provider may use special instruments to measure the depth and position of the uterus.
Mirena is carefully placed into the uterus with the help of an applicator tube.
Your health care provider trims the strings of the Mirena and may measure the length.

After the Procedure

You will need to spend some time in the recovery room under observation if you experience dizziness, cramping, etc.

Care for your Mirena

There is no special care needed. Mirena may sometimes fall out or move out of place. Check for the Mirena strings regularly to confirm its presence in the right place.

Complications

Complications are rare, however, during the first few weeks, you may experience cramping, bleeding, mood changes, breast tenderness, headache, acne, etc. It is normal to stop getting your periods after a few months.

Removal of Mirena

Mirena must be removed before you complete your 5-year term. You must discontinue using Mirena if your doctor suspects:

Pregnancy
Cervical cancer
Severe migraine
Endometrial cancer
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Heart attack
High blood pressure
Pain during sex

Advantages of Mirena

The advantages of using Mirena include:

Mirena is low in cost with minimum complications
Mirena can be reversed within 5 years
Does not interfere with your normal sex life or breastfeeding
Minimises the risk of pelvic infection and endometrial cancer
Effective in women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, endometrial hyperplasia, fibroids, and anaemia