The Mirena IUD

Mirena

Mirena® is a hormone-releasing intrauterine contraceptive that provides up to five years of 99.9% effective birth control without the permanence of surgery. Mirena® is an Intrauterine System or IUS. It is a small T-shaped device like the IUD and is placed inside the uterus by a health care provider. It releases a small amount of a hormone each day to keep you from getting pregnant.

It does not protect against STDs or HIV. The Food and Drug Administration approved this method in December 2000. In clinical studies, the most common side effects with Mirena® included:

• Menstrual changes
• Lower abdominal pain (cramps)
• Acne or other skin problems
• Back pain
• Breast tenderness
• Headache
• Mood changes
• Nausea

Ovarian cysts have been diagnosed in about 12% of Mirena users. In most cases, these cysts disappeared spontaneously during 2 to 3 months' observation. Women who have, or have had, breast cancer should not use hormonal therapy.

Q. Should I be concerned about pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)?

A. Thorough review of the evidence suggests that although some risk of PID is associated with intrauterine contraception insertion, the risk of upper genital infection is small after the first 20 days

There is no evidence to suggest that women using Mirena have an increased risk of acquiring chlamydia or gonorrhea; however, women with preexisting chlamydia or gonorrhea without symptoms may have a higher risk of PID once an intrauterine contraceptive is placed.

Q. Who can use Mirena®?

A. Mirena is most appropriate for women who:
• Have had at least 1 child
• Are looking for an effective, reversible form of birth control that’s easy to use
• Are in a monogamous relationship

For more talk to your health care provider or visit the Mirena® website.

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