Exploring and Discussing Mirena IUD: Key Points and Details
The Mirena IUD and the Copper IUD are two popular forms of long-term contraception, each offering unique benefits and drawbacks.
The Mirena IUD, a hormonal device, releases levonorgestrel hormone, which thickens cervical mucus and inhibits sperm movement, making it 99% effective at preventing pregnancy for up to 6 years. On the other hand, the Copper IUD is non-hormonal, releasing copper ions toxic to sperm, preventing fertilization, and lasting up to 10 years.
| Aspect | Mirena IUD (Hormonal) | Copper IUD (Non-Hormonal) | |----------------------|---------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------| | Mechanism | Releases levonorgestrel hormone | Releases copper ions | | Duration | Approved for 5 years (can be up to 10 years in some cases) | Approved for 10–12 years | | Menstrual Effects| Usually leads to lighter periods or amenorrhea after 3 months; some spotting initially | Often causes heavier menstrual flow and increased cramps; bleeding may worsen over time due to copper corrosion after 2–3 years | | Hormonal Effects | Releases hormones which may cause side effects such as ovarian cysts (often asymptomatic) | No hormones; no systemic hormonal side effects | | Side Effects | Risk of ovarian cysts; possible hormonal side effects (mood, acne, etc.); bleeding patterns vary | Increased menstrual bleeding, cramping, local inflammation, and systemic symptoms in some due to copper release | | Emergency Contraception| No | Yes, copper IUD can be used as emergency contraception | | Suitability | Good for those who want reduced or no periods and can tolerate hormones | Preferred for those who want hormone-free contraception or have hormone sensitivities | | Effectiveness | Equally effective in preventing pregnancy as copper IUD | Equally effective in preventing pregnancy as Mirena |
It's essential to consider individual health factors, tolerance to hormones, period preferences, and desired duration of contraception when choosing between the Mirena IUD and the Copper IUD.
Both devices have potential side effects. The Mirena IUD may cause bleeding, pain, dizziness, bleeding changes, missed periods, ovarian cysts, headaches or migraine episodes, vaginal discharge, vulvovaginitis, ectopic pregnancy, serious infection, pelvic inflammatory disease, perforation, and expulsion. The Copper IUD can lead to increased menstrual bleeding, cramping, local inflammation, and systemic symptoms in some users due to copper release.
Remember, the Mirena IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic device placed inside a person's uterus for up to 6 years. A doctor can insert an implant device under a person's skin in their arm, which releases hormones over 5 years. Both male and female condoms are also available for birth control.
For those seeking hormone-free options, a doctor can numb the uterus with local anaesthesia before placing the Mirena IUD, and ultrasound can help with placement. The Copper IUD can be used as emergency contraception if inserted within 5 days of sex without barrier birth control.
It's important to note that people can take oral birth control pills daily, use a diaphragm or cervical cap, which covers the cervix and blocks sperm from entering, or wear a vaginal ring for 3 weeks, which releases hormones. Additionally, a person can use spermicides, which are available in the form of tablets, creams, or suppositories, or receive injections of hormones into their arm or buttocks every 3 months.
Lastly, it's worth mentioning that after IUD removal, a person may experience a "Mirena crash" with symptoms including depression, anxiety, mood swings, insomnia, fatigue, hair loss, but there are no scientific studies on the symptoms, duration, or severity of the symptoms associated with a Mirena crash. A 2017 study found that those using copper IUDs were more likely to experience expulsion and pregnancy compared to the Mirena IUD.
In conclusion, understanding the Mirena IUD and Copper IUD, their benefits, and potential side effects, empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their long-term contraception options. Consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the best choice based on individual needs and circumstances.
[1] Mayo Clinic: Mirena IUD [2] Planned Parenthood: Copper IUD [3] American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Hormonal IUDs [5] NHS: IUDs and Implants
- In addition to the Mirena IUD and Copper IUD, other options available for health-and-wellness include oral birth control pills, diaphragms or cervical caps, vaginal rings, spermicides, and hormone injections for birth control.
- For those who prefer a hormone-free option, a doctor can provide a numbing agent before placing the Mirena IUD or use the Copper IUD as emergency contraception within 5 days of unprotected sex.
- A 2017 study suggested that those using copper IUDs were more likely to experience expulsion and pregnancy compared to the Mirena IUD, whereas there are no scientific studies on the symptoms associated with a post-Mirena IUD removal, often referred to as a "Mirena crash."
- When considering long-term contraception, factors such as tolerance to hormones, period preferences, and desired duration should be taken into account, as each method comes with its unique benefits and potential side effects.
