by Rachel Burt, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner at Roswell OB/GYN………………………………….
The Mirena intrauterine device (IUD) is placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. The progesterone effects are local to the uterus. It is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. The Mirena contains progesterone that is slowly released over a 5 year period. The progesterone helps to thicken the cervical mucous and thin the uterine lining. Some women choose to use a Mirena to help lighten their periods. The majority of women with Mirena IUDs have very light periods or no periods at all.
We insert the IUD into the uterus during an office procedure. It takes about 15 minutes to complete the insertion process. You should expect to feel some uterine cramping during the procedure. You may have cramping like a period for 24 to 48 hours after insertion which should be controlled by motrin. Many women have irregular spotting after insertion for up to three months. After this adjustment time period, your periods should be very light.
When you are ready for another child, the IUD is removed easily in the office. You have an immediate return to fertility after removal.
Please contact your healthcare provider to discuss if this is an option for you. Please schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider
at 770 751 3600.
