Mirena Facts

Mirena intrauterine device is a small contraceptive device in the shape of a ‘T’. it is normally made of flexible plastic. It is advisable that the Mirena IUD contraceptive device be inserted by a qualified health-care professional. Mirena prevents pregnancy by releasing a low amount of progestin levonorgestral continuously for a period of 5 years.

The Mirena IUD contraceptive affects the movement of the sperm and thus helps prevent the sperm from joining with an egg. It is more effective than the ParaGard IUD because of its hormonal component. Mirena IUD makes it difficult for the sperm to swim through the uterus by thickening the cervical mucus and also educes the likelihood of implantation by changing the lining of the uterus.

If Mirena IUD contraceptive is inserted within 7 days after the start of your period then it becomes effective immediately. Use another method of birth control during the first week after insertion if you inserted Mirena at any other time during your menstrual cycle.

Mirena IUD contraceptive offers various benefits. One of the most important benefits is that it provides continuous pregnancy prevention for 5 years and can also be removed during this period. It is extremely convenient and does not involve any hassles. It is one of the most inexpensive long-term reversible method of contraception. Also unlike ParaGard, Mirena IUD contraceptive helps protect against pelvic inflammatory disease as it decreases menstrual flow and thickens cervical mucus. This method is extremely private and discreet way of birth control. Menstrual cramps and the amount of bleeding that accompanies a woman’s period can be reduced by Mirena IUD contraceptive. This has been experienced by various women who have claimed that their menstrual flow reduced by approximately 90%.

Though Mirena IUD contraceptive has many advantages it also has many disadvantages. Some women using this contraceptive have complained about heavy bleeding and cramping during the first few weeks or months after insertion. However, this problem can be taken care of by prescribed medications. Also it is very normal for spotting to occur between periods during the first few months of Mirena IUD contraceptive use. The unpredictable bleeding between periods for some women continues for the first few months. It is the most common reason for the removal of Mirena IUD contraceptive removal.

Mirena IUD contraceptive also has various side effects which normally recede after the first few weeks. These side effects are acne, nausea, changes in menstrual flow and spotting between first periods, mood changes, lower abdominal and back pain, breast tenderness etc. 12% of Mirena IUD contraceptive users have also been diagnosed with ovarian cysts.

Usage of Mirena IUD contraceptive very rarely results in serious problems. Though, it is advised that the users immediately consult their doctor if any problem occurs so as to avoid further complications. The various problems that can take place are infection, perforation and expulsion.

Mirena IUD contraceptive is appropriate for women who are in a stable mutually monogamous relationship and have had at least one child and also have no risk or history of pelvic inflammatory disease or ectopic pregnancy. But it is not recommended for women who may be pregnant, have or may have an STD or breast cancer ormay have cancer of the cervix or uterus. Also women who are allergic to levonogestrel, silicone or polythene should stay away from this contraceptive.

Mirena IUD contraceptive is 99.9% effective and hence is termed as one of the most effective, reversible methods of birth control available. It is convenient and hassle free and does not embarrass women in any way and thus is opted by many women across the world.