Mirena IUD

Mirena is 99% effective birth control. The Mirena IUD is a device inserted into the uterus which can be worn for up to 5 years. Unlike the Paragard IUD, Mirena contains hormones (progestin). A woman choosing this method wants long-term birth control. However, if that changes and pregnancy is desired, the IUD can be removed at any time before the 5 year limit. The IUD is inserted by a healthcare professional during a woman’s menstrual period. Most women experience little or no pain/discomfort during the insertion process.

Mirena FAQs

How safe is the Mirena IUD?

The first several menstrual periods a woman has with an IUD inserted may be heavier, and cramping may be experienced. However, because of the hormone in the Mirena IUD, after approximately 9-12 months a woman’s menstrual periods will lighten considerably and may even stop.

IUDs carry a small risk of ectopic pregnancy, PID, bleeding between periods, uterine cramping and unwanted pregnancy. Mirena’s risks also include ovarian cysts, deep vein thrombosis and a decrease/loss of menstrual flow. The risks of an IUD include expulsion (the IUD falls out of the uterus) or perforation (the IUD punctures the uterine muscle). Mirena does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.

Who is the Mirena IUD appropriate for?

Mirena IUD is for women who desire a long-term method of contraception. A woman who uses Mirena is often in a monogamous relationship, and has never had an ectopic (tubal) pregnancy or a history of pelvic inflammatory disease. She is able to use hormonal forms of contraception. She enjoys spontaneity and is looking for a birth control method that she does not have to think about.