We asked Johannesburg gynaecologist Peter Koll what you need to know about this intrauterine system (IUS).
Q: What is the Mirena?
A: It’s a t-shaped plastic frame with a small cylinder containing the hormone levonorgestrel (LNG). Small amounts of this hormone are released into the uterus, causing thickening of the cervical mucus and a reduction of sperm motility in the uterus.
Q: Why is it becoming so popular
A: The device lasts for up to five years, and reduces menstrual bleeding (in many cases your periods stop altogether). It’s as safe as sterilisation, but can be removed at any time without impact on fertility. It does contain hormones, but these are localised to the area and hormone levels in the blood stream are lower than those associated with oral contraceptives.
Q: What does it costc
A: It costs around R1 800 (over 5 years this works out to R30 per month). This excludes the cost of having it inserted, however, which will depend on your gynae’s rates. Insertion is done in your gynae’s rooms and is a simple procedure with no anaesthetic required. Medical aids vary when it comes to covering this cost, so check with yours first.
Q: I’ve heard that you can only use an IUS such as the Mirena once you’ve had children. Is this trueI
A: “This is a very common old-wives tale, but as long as your uterus size is big enough, you can use the Mirena,” says Koll. Uterus size might be a problem for some women who haven’t had children, but your gynae will be able to assess this for you.
Q: Will the Mirena cause weight gain
A: This is a common complaint amongst women who have had it removed, but according to findings presented at a recent international conference on the Mirena , the metabolic effects of this device are virtually non-existent.
Q: Are there any other advantages of using the Mirenaf
A: It significantly reduces menstrual blood loss and is registered as a treatment option in patients with heavy menstrual bleeding. In many patients with heavy menstrual bleeding, this can be used as an alternative to hysterectomy or endometrial ablation (destroying the lining of the womb). “The big advantage here is that it is inserted in the doctor’s rooms and does not require admission to hospital or a general anaesthetic, thus avoiding risk and cost,” says Koll.
*However, it is important to know that all contraception methods must be discussed with your doctor before choosing a method to suit you. What works for one woman may not work for others. Ask questions, get as much information as you can. If you’re not satisfied with the answers, get a second opinion. Your body is your temple. Treat it with the respect it deserves – Shape editor
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