Content
Mirena is a type of IUD that releases the hormone progesterone and is indicated to prevent pregnancy, in addition to being able to be indicated for the treatment of excessive and exaggerated blood loss during the menstrual period or in cases of endometriosis.
This "T" shaped device must be inserted into the uterus, where it will gradually release the levonorgestrel hormone to the body. Read the instructions for this method of contraception in Levonorgestrel - Mirena.
As Mirena is a device to place in the uterus, it is normal to have some doubts about its use, so we answer some of the most common doubts:
1. How to put Mirena?
Mirena is a device that must be placed and removed by the gynecologist in the office, being inserted after a gynecological examination. In some cases this procedure can cause pain and mild discomfort at the time of clamping the cervix.
In addition, Mirena must be inserted 7 days after the first day of menstruation. It is possible that the device causes some pain or discomfort during the first weeks of use, and the doctor should be consulted in case of severe or persistent pain.
2. How to know if it is well placed?
Only the gynecologist can tell if Mirena is inserted correctly. During the specular examination performed in the office, the IUD wire present in the vagina is perceived. The woman herself cannot always feel the IUD wire in the vagina, but that does not mean that the IUD is not positioned correctly.
In some cases, by making a deeper touch in the vagina, the woman can feel the IUD wire and this means that she is well positioned.
3. How long can it be used for?
Mirena can be used for 5 consecutive years, and at the end of that period, the device must be removed by the doctor, with the possibility of always adding a new device.
After placing the device, it is recommended to go back to the gynecologist to verify that it is correctly inserted after 4 to 12 weeks.
4. Does Mirena change menstruation?
Mirena can change the menstrual period as it is a contraceptive method that affects the woman's cycle. During use, small amounts of blood (spotting), depending on the body of each woman. In some cases, bleeding may be absent and menstruation will stop.
When Mirena is removed from the uterus, as the hormone's effect no longer exists, menstruation should return to normal.
5. Does Mirena impair sexual intercourse?
While using the device, it is not expected to interfere with sexual intercourse. If this happens, because there is pain or because it is possible to feel the presence of the device, it is recommended to stop sexual contact and see a gynecologist to verify that the device is correctly positioned.
However, in a few cases, the Mirena IUD can also cause dryness in the vagina, which can make it difficult to penetrate during intercourse, and it is advisable to use water-based lubricants to try to solve the problem.
In addition, after placing Mirena, sexual intercourse is contraindicated in the first 24 hours, so that the body can adapt to the new contraceptive method.
6. Is it possible to use tampon?
When using Mirena, it is best to use tampons, but tampons or menstrual cups can also be used, as long as they are removed carefully so as not to pull the wires from the device.
7. Can Mirena go out alone?
Rarely. It may happen that Mirena is expelled from the body during the menstrual period. In these cases, it can be difficult to realize that this has happened, and you should therefore pay attention to the menstrual flow, which if increased, may be a sign that you are no longer under the effect of the hormone.
8. Is it possible to become pregnant after removing the device?
Mirena is a device that does not interfere with fertility and therefore after withdrawal there is a chance of becoming pregnant.
Therefore, after removing Mirena, it is recommended that you use other contraceptive methods to prevent pregnancy.
9. Does Mirena get fat?
As with other birth control pills, Mirena can lead to increased fluid retention, as it is a contraceptive method that works on the basis of progesterone.
10. Do I need to use other contraceptive methods?
Mirena works as a hormonal contraceptive method and only prevents pregnancy, not protecting the body against sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, when using Mirena it is recommended to use barrier contraceptive methods, such as condoms, which protect against diseases such as AIDS or gonorrhea.
In addition, it is important to remember that it is possible to become pregnant with a hormonal IUD like Mirena, but this is a rare event that happens when the device is out of position and can cause an ectopic pregnancy. Learn more at Is it possible to get pregnant with an IUD ?.