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Why it's done
By Mayo Clinic staffMirena offers effective, long-term contraception. Among various benefits, Mirena:
- Eliminates the need to interrupt sex for contraception or seek partner compliance
- Can remain in place for up to five years
- Can be removed at any time, followed by a quick return to baseline fertility
- Decreases menstrual bleeding after three to six months of use
- Decreases severe menstrual pain and pain related to endometriosis
- Decreases the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Decreases the risk of endometrial cancer and possibly cervical cancer
- Can be used while breast-feeding — though there may be an increased risk of uterine perforation if inserted immediately after childbirth
- Doesn't carry the risk of side effects related to birth control methods containing estrogen
Mirena isn't appropriate for everyone, however. Your health care provider may discourage use of Mirena if you:
- Had or have breast cancer
- Have uterine or cervical cancer
- Have liver disease
- Have uterine abnormalities, such as fibroids, that interfere with the placement or retention of Mirena
- Have a pelvic infection or have a history of pelvic inflammatory disease
- Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Have inflammation of the vagina or cervix or a lower genital tract infection
- Are allergic to any component of Mirena
- Have or are at high risk of a sexually transmitted infection
- Had previous problems with an IUD
In addition, tell your health care provider if you:
- Take any medications, including nonprescription and herbal products
- Have diabetes or high blood pressure
- Have a heart condition or have had a heart attack
- Have migraines
- Have blood-clotting problems or have had a stroke
- Recently gave birth or are breast-feeding
References
- Dean G, et al. Approach to intrauterine contraception. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 3, 2011.
- Kottke M. Nondaily contraceptive options: User benefits, potential for high continuation and counseling issues. Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey. 2008;63:661.
- Dean G, et al. Management of problems related to intrauterine contraception. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 3, 2011.
- Carusi DA, et al. Insertion and removal of an intrauterine contraceptive device. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 3, 2011.
- Mirena (prescribing information). Wayne, N.J.: Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Inc.; 2009. http://mirena-us.com/hcp/index.jsp?WT.mc_id=MIS119497&WT.srch=1. Accessed Nov. 8, 2011.
- Castellsague X, et al. Intrauterine device use, cervical infection with human papillomavirus, and risk of cervical cancer: A pooled analysis of 26 epidemiological studies. The Lancet Oncology. 2011;12:1023.
- Zieman M, et al. A Pocket Guide to Managing Contraception. Tiger, Ga.: Bridging the Gap Communications; 2010:82.
- Birth control methods fact sheet. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/birth-control-methods.cfm. Accessed Nov. 3, 2011.
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