Definition
The Mirena IUD is a hormone IUD and therefore a contraceptive. The coil is inserted into the uterus where it constantly releases a hormone to prevent pregnancy. This is a so-called progestin, levonorgestrel, also known as corpus luteum hormone. The Mirena hormone coil is effective for about five years and is therefore one of the long-term contraceptive methods.
Effect of the Mirena Spiral
The Mirena spiral is a T-shaped plastic body. Its vertical part contains a cylinder filled with gestagens (levonorgestrel), which are similar to the body’s own corpus luteum hormone. The hormone coil is inserted into the uterus by a gynecologist.
Two plastic retrieval threads are attached to the spiral, which are used for later removal. They can be felt by the woman. The coil acts in the uterus via a local effect of the hormone levonorgestrel.
This hormone is released evenly in small doses. At the beginning of contraception this is twenty micrograms in twenty-four hours and after five years only ten micrograms per twenty-four hours. The hormone is responsible for the contraceptive effect.
It inhibits the build-up of the lining of the uterus and leads to a thickening of the mucus in the cervix. The thickened mucus prevents sperm from entering the uterus. Women who carry the IUS continue to ovulate.
Pregnancy is prevented by preventing sperm and egg from combining and preventing implantation. In addition, the Mirena IUD has a positive effect on accompanying symptoms during menstruation. In addition to contraception, it is also used in cases of excessive menstrual bleeding (hypermennorhea) and menopausal symptoms as part of hormone replacement therapy.
How safe is the Mirena Spiral?
The Mirena IUD is considered one of the safest contraceptive methods and is used by about ten percent of all women capable of giving birth. Out of one hundred women who use the Mirena IUD, less than one woman becomes pregnant. This makes the IUS more safe than the pill and condoms. The only contraceptive method that is even safer than the IUS is sterilization of the woman. You will find a good summary on our contraceptive methods at a glance page
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