Get to know the Mirena IUD
Choosing birth control is personal, and for women who want to prevent pregnancy—while also needing help with heavy periods—it’s important to know there is an option that does both. If you’re considering an IUD (intrauterine device) but also struggle with heavy periods, get to know Mirena:
Over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy for up to 8 years
FDA-approved to treat heavy periods—also known as heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB)—for up to 5 years in women who choose an IUD for birth control
Can be used whether or not you’ve had a baby
Can be removed by your healthcare provider anytime in case your plans change
Who should not use Mirena?
Mirena is not right for everyone. Do not use Mirena if you:
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are or might be pregnant; Mirena cannot be used as an emergency contraceptive
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have a serious pelvic infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or have had PID in the past unless you have had a normal pregnancy after the infection went away
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have an untreated genital infection now
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have had a serious pelvic infection in the past 3 months after a pregnancy
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can get infections easily. For example, if you:
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have multiple sexual partners or your partner has multiple sexual partners
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have problems with your immune system
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use or abuse intravenous drugs
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have or suspect you might have cancer of the uterus or cervix
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have bleeding from the vagina that has not been explained
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have liver disease or a liver tumor
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have breast cancer or any other cancer that is sensitive to progestin (a female hormone), now or in the past
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have an intrauterine device in your uterus already
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have a condition of the uterus that changes the shape of the uterine cavity, such as large fibroid tumors
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are allergic to levonorgestrel, silicone, polyethylene, silica, barium sulfate or iron oxide
DID YOU KNOW?
Mirena is the #1 prescribed IUD in the U.S.*
*Supported by 2019–2021 SHS data.
How much does Mirena cost?
Find out if your insurance covers Mirena, and what to do if you don’t have insurance.
INDICATIONS FOR MIRENA
Mirena® (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) is a hormone-releasing IUD that prevents pregnancy for up to 8 years. Mirena also treats heavy periods for up to 5 years in women who choose intrauterine contraception.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
- If you have a pelvic or genital infection, get infections easily, or have certain cancers, don't use Mirena. Less than 1% of users get a serious pelvic infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
- If you have persistent pelvic or stomach pain, or excessive bleeding after placement, tell your healthcare provider (HCP). If Mirena comes out, call your HCP and avoid intercourse or use non-hormonal back-up birth control (such as condoms or spermicide). Mirena may go into or through the wall of the uterus and cause other problems.
Pregnancy while using Mirena is uncommon but can be life threatening and may result in loss of pregnancy or fertility.
- Ovarian cysts may occur but usually disappear.
- Bleeding and spotting may increase in the first 3 to 6 months and remain irregular. Periods over time usually become shorter, lighter, or may stop.
Mirena does not protect against HIV or STIs.
Only you and your HCP can decide if Mirena is right for you. Mirena is available by prescription only.
For important risk and use information about Mirena, please see Full Prescribing Information.