What is Mirena?
Mirena is a hormone spiral (Intrauterine Inpessar/IUP) from Bayer, which directs the gestagen Levonorgestrel directly into the uterus. It offers a very reliable prevention protection for up to 5 years.
Unlike the pill, Mirena mainly works locally in the uterus. The hormone dose is significantly lower than in oral contraceptives, since the hormone is released directly at the site of action.
Mirena is also used for the treatment of severe period bleeding and can significantly reduce it.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Levonorgestrel 52 mg (Freisetzung: ca. 20 µg/Tag initial)
Mirena works through several mechanisms:
Local effect:
- Thickening of the cervical mucus (barrier for sperm)
- Inhibition of sperm
- Change in cervical mucosa
Additional: In some women, ovulation is also suppressed, especially in the first year.
The Pearl Index is 0.16 – Mirena is therefore one of the safest prevention methods ever.
Who is it suitable for?
Mirena is suitable for:
- Women wishing long-term prevention without daily use
- Women with severe period bleeding
- Breastfeeding mothers (from 6 weeks after birth)
- Women who do not use estrogens
- Women with completed family planning
Also suitable for women who have not yet received children.
Available Dosages
- 52 mg Levonorgestrel in the reservoir
- Initial release: approx. 20 μg/day
- After 5 years: approx. 10 μg/day
- duration of action: 5 years
How to Take
Use:
- By a doctor
- During or shortly after menstruation
- The procedure takes only a few minutes
- check after 4-12 weeks
Removal:
- Anytime possible by the doctor
- The fertility returns immediately
Contraindications
Mirena should not be used at:
- Pregnancy
- Acute inflammation in the pelvic area
- cervical cancer or cervical cancer
- Unclear vaginal bleeding
- Missing the uterus
- Acute liver disease
- breast cancer (currently or within the last 5 years)
Possible Side Effects
Family (especially at the beginning):
- Irregular bleeding or lubrication bleeding
- No period (at ~20% after 1 year)
- Headaches
- stomach pain
- Acne
Occasionally:
- Ovarial cysts (usually harmless)
- Breast tensions
- mood swings
Selten:
- Expulsion of the spiral
- Perforation on insert
The risk of thrombosis is not increased.
Interactions
Interactions are rare because Mirena acts locally. Enzyme-inducing drugs could theoretically influence the effectiveness, but this is not clearly proven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Mirena right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.