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Mirena IUD
The Mirena® IUD (intrauterine device)is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
What is the Mirena IUD?
Mirena is a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD - intrauterine device) inserted into the uterus for long-term birth control and/or reduction of heavy menstrual bleeding.
The device features a T-shaped plastic frame that releases a type of progestin hormone which thickens the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching or fertilizing an egg. It also thins the lining of the uterus.
The IUD is effective for up to eight years after insertion.
What are the benefits of the Mirena IUD?
- Can remain in place and prevent pregnancy for up to eight years
- Can be removed at any time, and fertility returns quickly
- Often reduces menstrual bleeding after several months of use
- Often reduces severe menstrual pain and pain from endometriosis
- Doesn’t carry some of the side effect risks of estrogen-containing birth control
What are the side effects of the Mirena IUD?
Your daughter may experience side effects, such as:
- Irregular bleeding
- Absence of periods
- Cramping or pelvic pain
- Mood changes
- Acne
- Breast tenderness
What are the risks of Mirena IUD?
During the procedure, your daughter may experience cramping, dizziness, fainting, nausea, low blood pressure, or a slower-than-normal heartbeat. These should return to normal after the procedure is complete.
Your daughter should not use the Mirena IUD if she:
- Has unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Has liver disease
- Has uterine abnormalities, like fibroids, that can interfere with placement
- Has an abnormally shaped uterus, such as a septate uterus
- Has an active pelvic infection
- Is allergic to any component of Mirena
What can I expect with the Mirena IUD insertion?
About 1-2 months after Mirena is inserted, your daughter’s doctor may re-examine her to make sure Mirena hasn't moved and check for signs and symptoms of infection and any bleeding abnormalities.
To remove Mirena, your daughter’s doctor will insert a speculum into the vagina and use an instrument to grasp the device’s strings and pull the device gently out of the uterus. Light bleeding and cramping is common during removal.
What can I expect before the Mirena IUD Insertion?
The doctor will order a pregnancy test and sexual transmitted infection STI screening before inserting Mirena. Your daughter can take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (such as Advil® or Motrin®) one to two hours before the procedure to reduce cramping.
What can I expect during the Mirena IUD Insertion?
During the procedure, the doctor will:
- Insert a speculum and clean the vagina and cervix with an antiseptic solution
- Place the device inside an applicator tube and insert the Mirena IUD through the cervical canal and into the uterus
- Trim the device strings
What can I expect after the Mirena IUD insertion?
About 1-2 months after Mirena is inserted, your daughter’s doctor may re-examine her to make sure Mirena hasn't moved and check for signs and symptoms of infection and any bleeding abnormalities.
To remove Mirena, your daughter’s doctor will Insert a speculum into the vagina and use an instrument to grasp the device’s strings and pull the device gently out of the uterus. Light bleeding and cramping is common during removal.
Mirena IUD doctors and providers
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May Lau, MD Adolescent Medicine Specialist -
Nirupama De Silva, MD Pediatric Gynecologist -
Jenny Francis, MD Adolescent Medicine Specialist -
Michele Gifford, MD Pediatric Gynecology -
Jason Jarin, MD Pediatric Gynecologist