Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This product is a small, flexible device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It offers a long-term reversible birth control option, with some variants lasting up to 5 or 8 years, depending on the specific product. This device can also manage heavy menstrual bleeding in individuals opting for this form of birth control. The device gradually releases a hormone called levonorgestrel, akin to one naturally produced by women, aiding in pregnancy prevention.
Uses and Dosage
This device is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider during an office visit.
A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled 4 to 6 weeks later to ensure it remains properly positioned. Depending on the specific product, it remains in place for up to 5 or 8 years.
Your doctor may advise using a backup form of birth control for the first 7 days after insertion to prevent pregnancy until the device becomes effective.
Occasionally, the device may shift or expel itself. Check its position after each menstrual period. Your healthcare provider or the Patient Information Leaflet can instruct you on how to perform these checks. If the device comes out or you can’t feel its threads, contact your doctor promptly and use a backup non-hormonal form of birth control (such as condoms or spermicide) until advised otherwise.
If you wish to continue using this method of birth control after 5 years (or 8 years with certain products), the current device may be removed and replaced with a new one. Regardless, the device should be removed after the specified time period. Your healthcare provider can remove the device whenever you decide to stop using it.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- headache
- acne
- breast tenderness
- nausea
- weight gain
- cramps or pain during menstruation
- depression
- changes in mood
- hair loss
- unwanted hair growth
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- foul-smelling or unusual vaginal discharge
- vaginal pain
- pain during sex
- sores on the genital area
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- sudden weakness of an arm or leg
- drooping of one side of the face
- difficulty speaking or understanding
- crushing chest or shoulder pain
- swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, arms, hands, legs, or feet
- rash
- hives
Caution
- Before using this medication device, it’s important to disclose any allergies to levonorgestrel or other progestins, as well as any other allergies you may have. Inactive ingredients in the product could also cause allergic reactions.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, especially if you have recently been pregnant or are currently breastfeeding, have bleeding or blood disorders, high blood pressure, abnormal breast exams, cancer, depression, diabetes, severe headaches or migraines, heart problems, liver disease, previous ectopic pregnancy, stroke, unexplained vaginal bleeding, uterus problems, or conditions that weaken the immune system or increase the risk of infection.
- If you or your partner have multiple sexual partners, this device may not be the most suitable birth control method. If you or your partner contract a sexually transmitted disease (including HIV, gonorrhea, or chlamydia), contact your doctor immediately. Ask your doctor whether you should continue using this device for birth control.
- If you are scheduled for an MRI test, inform the testing personnel that you are using this device, as it may need to be adjusted for the MRI.
- This device should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.
- Levonorgestrel can pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using this device.
Form and Strength
Mirena IUD Device is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Mirena IUD Device IUD:
- 52 mg
FAQ
Does Mirena IUD stop periods?
Mirena IUD can stop your menstrual periods, though it typically happens later on during treatment. When you first start Mirena IUD, you’re more likely to experience spotting or breakthrough bleeding, especially within the first 3 to 6 months.
Does Mirena IUD cause weight gain?
While not common, some people reported weight gain while using Mirena IUD. Research suggests that the progestin hormone causes your body to hold onto more water, which might make you feel bloated.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/mirena/what-is#faqs
- https://www.rxlist.com/mirena-drug.htm
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mirena/about/pac-20391354
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-20420/mirena-intrauterine/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a613047.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mirena.html
