Mirena Insertion

What is Mirena?

Mirena is a small device that is fitted into the uterus, where it releases a hormone called progesterone.

It can be used:

to treat abnormal bleeding
to reduce pain associated with periods
to protect the uterine lining during hormone replacement therapy
for contraception
to manage endometrial symptoms
in the management of polycystic ovarian syndrome.

When it is used to treat abnormal bleeding, your doctor may first recommend some tests to ensure there is nothing wrong with the lining of your uterus.

How does it work?

Mirena is a thin plastic T-shaped device containing levonorgestrel which is a synthetic form of the female hormone known as progesterone. Progesterone is a hormone found in other preparations, including the oral contraceptive pill. This hormone reduces the monthly growth of the lining of the uterus (endometrium) and therefore reduces the heaviness of periods and may help with reducing period pain. It also affects sperm motility.

How is the Mirena inserted?

The procedure can be performed in the outpatient clinic without any anaesthesia. It is inserted in a process like performing a PAP smear (now called cervical screening test or CST). The procedure itself takes approximately five minutes. It can also be performed at the time of another gynaecological procedure under anaesthetic.

Following insertion, you will not be able to feel the device and it is not something you or your partner would normally feel during sex but you should be able to feel the threads of the device with your fingers. The device is removed in a procedure like the insertion.

All women who have a Mirena inserted will be reviewed 6 weeks post-insertion to ensure all is well. Should you have any concerns at other times, you may contact the doctor.

When should the Mirena be inserted?

Mirena is best inserted within seven days of the first day of your period. That way it is not inserted when a woman might be pregnant and it is also easier at the time as the cervix is open a little more.

How long does the Mirena last?

The device stays in the uterus and will remain effective for five years. If you feel your symptoms are returning before the five-year timeframe, please contact the clinic for an appointment. The Mirena may be removed sooner if desired. Fertility returns rapidly after removal. The device does not dissolve and must be removed at the five-year mark.

How effective is the Mirena?

Mirena is extremely effective in managing gynaecological conditions, such as heavy and/or painful periods, pelvic pain, endometriosis.

A recent audit showed that, when inserted for pelvic pain, up to 90 per cent of women had significant improvement of their symptoms. More than 70 per cent of women, who have it inserted to help with heavy periods, find their periods are significantly lighter. About 30 per cent of women find they stop having periods altogether after a few months, which is quite safe. While it is very effective at preventing pregnancy, no contraceptive method is 100 per cent reliable. Each year one to two women per thousand, using a Mirena, can expect to fall pregnant.

What are the complications of this procedure?

Risks, side effects and complications include the following, but are not limited to:

At the time of insertion: discomfort at the time of and immediately after insertion—we would recommend you take simple pain relief before leaving home, on the day of your procedure, to help reduce the discomfort of insertion.
Introduction of infection (less than 1 in 100 women)
Perforation of the uterus (less than 1 in 100 women).
Menstrual control– you can expect some change in your periods but—the exact effect is difficult to predict. Most women will stop having periods, and for the remainder, periods will become lighter or less regular. In some instances, periods may be very light, but prolonged.
Expulsion– rarely, the device may be expelled during the menstrual period (less than three per cent). Check for the threads of the device after each period or about once a month.
Other effects– very small amounts of this drug are absorbed into your circulation so hormonal symptoms are uncommon, minor, and self-limiting such as headaches, breast tenderness, and changes in libido.

Any other specific risks and complications will be discussed prior to the procedure.

Additional information about Mirena

It does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases. It does not suit women who have a uterus with an unusual shape as it is more likely to be expelled. After insertion bleeding irregularities are very common. Most women will experience spotting daily for the first six weeks. This is normal and settles soon after. However, please contact your General Practitioner (GP) or Emergency Department on 07 3163 8111 if you experience any of the following after insertion of the Mirena: a fever or are feeling unwell, offensive vaginal discharge or heavy bleeding, nausea and vomiting, severe pain which does not settle.

Warner Lakes Medical Precinct, Unit 1/ 1185B

07 3448 0163

Mirena Insertion

What is Mirena?

It can be used:

How does it work?

How is the Mirena inserted?

When should the Mirena be inserted?

How long does the Mirena last?

How effective is the Mirena?

What are the complications of this procedure?

Additional information about Mirena

Warner Lakes Family Practice

Quick Links

Our Services

Area We Served

Address

(07) 3448 0163

Opening Hours: Same Day Doctors Appointments

After Hours Services

Warner Lakes Family Practice

Our Services

Quick Links

(07) 3448 0163

Same Day Doctors Appointments

After Hours Services

Book appointment online