An IUD or an Intra Uterine device is one which is a T shaped device inserted into the uterus as and by way of a birth control method.
The mirena IUD or IUS (Intra uterine system) as it is also known is different from other copper based IUDs, some of which are also referred to as Copper T, which worked by presence of a device in the uterus, prompts the release of leukocytes and prostaglandins by the endometrium.
These substances are hostile to both sperm and eggs; the presence of copper increases the spermicidal effect.
The Mirena IUD is different in that is a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system and is said to nearly be as effective as sterilization as a form of birth control. This is the device that uses the release of the female hormone in much the same way as the pill; however this is inserted into the vagina and is therefore not required to be taken orally.
The device works by increasing the viscosity of the uterus area so that the sperm cannot enter and thereby reduces the possibility of fertilization of the egg. The nature of the endometrium is also altered so that the implantation of an egg is not possible.
The device itself is different from other IUDs in that it is made from flexible plastic. Antibiotics and pain relievers may be prescribed prior to insertion which is to be done by a specific aseptic technique. The device has to be inserted by a licensed practitioner and can be kept for up to 5 years for very effective contraception.
The very significant difference between Mirena and other IUDs is that whereas with traditional IUDs the side effect of increased menstrual bleeding is common, with Mirena the converse is true.
Bleeding is significantly reduced and after a few months the menstrual cycle may actually disappear. The frequency of ovulation is decreased to a very considerable extent.
Mirena is used not just as a contraceptive but also to treat other conditions such as endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and anemia as well as Menorrhagia.
The threads of the inserted Mirena device have to be checked once a month to see that they are in place which is to be done in accordance with the healthcare provider’s instructions. It can be removed anytime, before or at the end of the 5 years which is the recommended duration of insertion.
