Mirena is a small device designed to prevent pregnancy and treat conditions such as abnormal bleeding and painful periods.
This small, T-shaped device works by being placed into the uterus and releases a hormone called progesterone. This is not a surgical procedure that only takes a few minutes and should only be placed by a professional healthcare provider.
If when you wish to fall pregnant, you can have the Mirena removed at any time and safely become pregnant straight away.
What are the advantages for choosing Mirena?
It’s effective! – Mirena is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. This is one of the highest rates for birth control.
Reversible – If you decide at any time to try and become pregnant, it can be removed at any time and safely become pregnant straight away.
FDA Approved – Mirena is approved by the highest authority (FDA) in treating heavy periods.
Low maintenance –Mirena lasts up to 5 years and you can remove it whenever you want. You do not need to remember a daily pill or get a new script. Once you have the Mirena placed, you should see your healthcare professional after 4 weeks to check it is in the right place.
How is it placed in the uterus? Will it hurt?
How it is placed:
- Antiseptic solution is applied to the area to ensure cleanliness
- A thin plastic tube carrying the Mirena is inserted into the vagina and into the uterus
- The Mirena is left in place and plastic tube removed
- Threads attached will be trimmed to the correct length
Any bleeding or discomfort felt should pass after 30 minutes after the procedure. If you are experiencing bleeding or discomfort after 30 minutes, the Mirena may need to be removed and placed again.
When should I not use Mirena?
You should not use Mirena if you:
- Are pregnant or are trying to become pregnant
- Have unexplained bleeding from the vagina
- May have cancer or cervix or uterus
- Have a pelvic infection or have experienced a pelvic infection in the past 3 months post pregnancy
- Have liver disease
- Have a liver tumour
- Have a cancer sensitive to progestin such as breast cancer
- Immune system issues
Is Mirena used as protection against STDs?
Having Mirena does not protect against STD or HIV. Use a condom if you or your partner are at risk of STD. You should speak with your healthcare provider about what birth control option would best suit you.
How does Mirena prevent pregnancy?
There is not just one way that Mirena works to prevent pregnancy. There are a few factors combined that contribute to the way Mirena prevents pregnancy.
- Inhibiting sperm being able to travel to eggs
- Making the lining of the uterus thinner
- Cervical mucus becomes thicker inhibiting sperm to enter uterus
Putting Mirena myths to rest!
- Mirena does not cause infertility
- Mirena does not have to be a long-term commitment
- Mirena does not work by miscarriage and abortions
- Your partner will not feel the Marina during intercourse
Side effects of Mirena.
Side effects are uncommon but are a possibility. Some side effects are:
Menstrual cycle changes – If you do not have a period for 6 or more weeks you should see your healthcare provider.
Mirena expulsion – This means that Mirena has come out by itself and will no longer be effective as birth control.
Cysts on ovaries – Approximately 12 in 100 women experience cyst development on their ovaries after Mirena placement. They can cause pain but often disappear on their own after 4-6 weeks.
How can we help?
At Wellcare Medical Centre Kingston we specialize in woman health.
Our experienced team of Gynaecology trained female GP, Registered Nurse, Dietitian and exercise physiologist will help you to receive the best treatment options.
Our Gynaecology clinic in Logan will help you about any queries you have about your health and wellbeing.
We are conveniently located in main road at 497 Kingston Road Kingston 4114
Please contact us 07 31334483 for a consult.
Please head to our website for more information about our services:
Obstetric & Gynecology Services