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What Is Mirena?

Mirena is one of the most effective forms of birth control short of having a sterilization procedure. This type of birth control uses a plastic component that is inserted into a woman's uterus in order to release hormones for the prevention of pregnancy. This kind of birth control is cost effective over time because it can be used for as many as five years without being replaced.

  1. Function

    • Mirena was designed to provide women with a highly effective form of birth control. Pregnancy results in less than 1 percent of women who are using the Mirena intra-uterine device (IUD). This birth control method functions by releasing a progestin hormone into a woman's uterus throughout the duration of her use of Mirena. Unlike other birth control methods, hormones are not released directly to the blood system and estrogen is not used at all.

    Time Frame

    • There is no other birth control method that can function for up to five years at a time. A women only needs to have her Mirena IUD checked during her regular gynecological exams each year.

    Misconceptions

    • Some women believe that they are safe from the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases if they use Mirena. Mirena does not prevent a man's bodily fluids from entering a woman's body during intercourse. Mirena is designed for use by women who are in a long-term relationship and who have a single sexual partner. This birth control should not be used if you or your partner have a sexually transmitted disease.

    Side Effects

    • There are some potential side effects reported by women who use Mirena. Although rare, some women experiences perforation of the uterus if the IUD moves out of place. Mirena can sometimes cause an infection or even lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. There have been cases of ovarian cysts forming in some women when they are using Mirena. An increased risk of an ectopic pregnancy is present for couples that use Mirena birth control. Discuss all potential risks factors and their symptoms with your health care provider.

    Considerations

    • Mirena is not recommended for all women. Your doctor will not want to prescribe Mirena if you have not yet had a child or if you are not in a committed relationship. You should not use Mirena if you have a history of pelvic infections or abnormal uterine bleeding. Most women who have or have had female cancers including breast cancer, will not be able to use Mirena.

    Warning

    • If there is any chance that you might be pregnant, you must be tested before receiving Mirena. If at any time while using Mirena you believe you are pregnant, you must contact your health care provider immediately. Mirena poses serious and potentially life threatening risks to a developing baby.

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