LoginCertificatesPrescriptionsPathology/Blood testsGP appointmentsReferralsAction Plans
Login
Mirena® Coil (IUS)

Mirena® Coil (IUS)

99.8% effective

The Mirena Coil or Intra-uterine System (IUS) is a small T-shaped plastic device that is fitted inside the uterus and slowly releases a progesterone hormone. It causes thickening of the mucus in the cervix, so sperm cannot get through. It also prevents a pregnancy attaching to the wall of the uterus. A doctor or nurse must fit it, in a procedure similar to having a pap smear.

Contraceptive Pill

Pros

  • Once it’s inserted, there is no need to remember to take any doses of contraceptives- it’s taken care of
  • For many women, it makes periods very light or stop altogether
  • It lasts for 5 years, though you can have it removed sooner if you need to
  • If you decide you wish to become pregnant, there is little or no delay to return to fertility when you have the Mirena coil removed
  • It does not interfere with sex
  • It is not affected by any other medications

Cons

  • There can be irregular vaginal bleeding in the first few months after getting it inserted
  • The risk of pregnancy is very low indeed (in fact it’s one of the most effective methods of contraception), but in the rare case that pregnancy does occur, it more likely it will be an ectopic pregnancy, i.e outside the uterus- which can be a serious condition.
  • It does not prevent sexually transmitted infections
Click here if you need a referral to a gynaecologist to discuss having a Mirena Coil inserted
For more detailed information about the Mirena Coil, click here
See more contraception options on our hub page

Title