Mirena Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Mirena is an intrauterine contraceptive device (called an IUD for short) that emits low levels of the hormone levonorgestrel, a progestogen, into the uterus. The birth control device is made from a flexible plastic and placed directly into the uterus, where it may remain for up to five years. If the woman decides that she would like to have a baby before the five years are up, Mirena may be removed.[1]
There are a number of side effects associated with the Mirena IUD. Many users will experience irregular vaginal bleeding, such as spotting or heavy bleeding. Ovarian cysts are also common, as are nausea, headache, backache, weight gain, nervousness and acne. One-fifth of Mirena users stop having periods.[2]
 Flickr: twitchcraft | |
| Brand name for | Levonorgestrel |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Bayer Health Care |
| Phone number | 1-888-84-BAYER[3] |
| Uses | Birth control |
| Common side effects | Bleeding or pain during placement, product coming out accidentally, changes in menstruation, abdominal pain, depression, acne, weight gain[1] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
|
| |
Contents |
About Mirena
Mirena is the only hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) that is currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration. It sends low levels of hormones into the uterus, and works by causing the mucus of the cervix to thicken while at the same time causing the uterine lining to thin. This blocks sperm from entering the fallopian tubes, thus preventing pregnancy. Mirena can work for up to 5 years with no maintenance. Although the birth control device itself is hidden from sight, a string attached to it hangs down from the cervix.[2]
The Mirena IUD should only be placed by a professional. Once the procedure has been completed, the manufacturer recommends a check up in four to 12 weeks to make sure that it is positioned correctly. After that, it will only need to be checked once per year along with the regular gynecological exam.[4]
About Drug Side Effects
Side Effects of Mirena
Common side effects of Mirena can include dizziness or cramping while the device is being placed in the uterus. After it has been placed, over 10% of patients experience skipped periods or changes in blood flow, pain in the abdomen, and ovarian cysts (which can sometimes require surgery). Between 5 and 10% of patients can get acne, become depressed or have heavier periods. Fewer than 5% will experience weight gain, breast tenderness, upset stomach, back pain, decreased sex drive, bloating, swelling of extremities or anxiety.[1]
More serious side effects of Mirena can include prolonged vaginal bleeding, vaginal sores, irregular discharge, rash or intense itching in the face or throat, breathing problems or dizziness.[2]
Allergic Reactions to Mirena
Patients who are allergic to levonorgestrel are advised not to have Mirena inserted. In addition, those who have allergies to silicone or polyethylene, the materials used in the body of Mirena, are likely to have a reaction to this IUD. It is also possible to be allergic to the inactive ingredients of Mirena, which are dimethicone and barium sulfate.[2]
Mirena Precautions and Warnings
- Women who become pregnant on Mirena are at increased risk of ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, particularly when other risk factors exist.[2]
- In the case of pregnancy, Mirena must be removed; however, the removal process may result in miscarriage.[2]
- IUDs like Mirena increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Patients with history of PID are not good candidates for Mirena unless they have gone through a pregnancy in the interim.[2]
- Mirena can cause amenorrhea (loss of periods). If this happens, women are advised to get tested for pregnancy if six weeks pass without a period. No subsequent testing is typically necessary if the results are negative, even if the period does not return.[2]
Also See: Mirena, Birth Control Pills, Birth Control Coupons, Mirena Coupons, Plan B Coupons, Yasmin Coupons
|
|
|
|
