Birth Control Facts

Mirena Iud

The Benefits And Risks Of Using A Mirena IUD

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In many cases, IUD's, or intrauterine devices are selected by women who do not want to use oral birth control pills.  While an IUD may not be 100% effective at preventing conception, there is a new form of this device  that is much more reliable.  The Mirena IUD is designed to release levonorgestrel, a hormone, directly into the uterus.

Because the Mirena IUD does not utilize estrogen, it is much safer than oral forms of contraception.   Since the hormone is in direct contact with the tissue it is designed to effect, far less of it needs to be used.  This translates to less of an impact on the rest of your body.  Almost all of the effects from the Mirena IUD are located within the reproductive tract.  Among other things, the IUD helps produce a vaginal environment that prevents sperm from moving easily.

Because the Mirena IUD can remain in place for five years, you will not need to worry about taking a daily birth control pill.  As many as 8 out of 100 women who use oral contraceptives will wind up getting pregnant.  Irregardless of whether this occurs because of missed doses or irregular menstrual cycles, more and more women are seeking a more reliable method. When compared to oral contraceptives, the Mirena IUD has some other advantages.  As an example, if you want to get pregnant, all you will need to do is have your gynecologist remove the implant.  Unlike other hormones that stay in your system for long periods of time, levonorgestrel does not. 

Therefore, you will not need to worry about a waiting period to ensure that no harm is done to the fetus. Over the years, many women on oral birth control pills complain of weight gain and other side effects.  Women that choose the Mirena IUD tend to experience far less weight, emotional stress, and and acne.  In addition, if your periods tend to be very heavy, using the Mirena IUD can lead to them becoming much lighter.  Some women wind up  having no period at all. Despite all of the advantages associated with using a Mirena IUD, there are some potential complications.   As an example, if you have a history of pelvic inflammatory disease, diabetes, or a heart condition, you may not be a suitable candidate for this type of contraceptive.  The Mirena IUD is also not recommended for individuals that have not had at least one child, or at risk for tubal pregnancy.  It is also very important to note that the Mirena IUD will not prevent the transmission of STD's.

Over the years, women have learned that birth control pills can be more trouble than they are worth.  Aside from weight gain, acne, nausea, and emotional distress, many women also wind up getting pregnant.  In addition, as more research emerges about the role of estrogen in certain cancers, many women would prefer a method of contraception that does not use this hormone.  For many women, the Mirena IUD is a safe, reliable alternative.