An Overview On IUS

Hormonal contraception has proven to be quite an effective method for preventing women from becoming pregnant. The three most common hormonal contraceptives are the contraceptive rings, patches and pills. Another type of hormonal contraception method used by women for contraceptive purposes is the long-term reversible contraception method, of which some types are the IUS, IUD, progestogen-only injection and progestogen-only implant. Women who are willing to delay having a baby for a longer period of time prefer using these methods. These methods are safer than the former three hormonal methods as they are meant for long-term use, while the rings, patches or pills may cause side effects after long-term use.

IUS – Intrauterine System

An intrauterine system is a long-term reversible contraceptive which is available in the form of a contraceptive device that can be fitted into your womb. This contraceptive is effective for up to five years after having been placed inside your womb. It releases a synthetic version of the female hormone progestogen into your body, thus protecting you from pregnancy. The IUS works by preventing the process of fertilisation as it thickens the mucus in the cervix, making the journey of a sperm from the vagina to your womb difficult. It also makes the womb lining thinner, so an egg, if fertilised, is unable to implant and grow further.

Mirena – an IUS

Mirena is the only form of this contraceptive device available for women looking for a long-term contraceptive measure. This device is supposed to be placed by a medical professional. However, before placing the device, internal examination will be conducted, to ensure you are not pregnant and have not contracted an STI. The insertion take around 15 to 20 minutes, which needs to carried out within the first seven days of your periods. You may find the insertion of the IUS device uncomfortable and painful, for which you can ask for use of a local anaesthetic.

Benefits of Mirena

Mirena can be as effective as a method of contarception, with the benefit of being reversible. It is effective for as long as five years and you will not be required to do anything once the device is inserted. Women using this device have also experienced a reduction in menstrual pain. This intrauterine system device can also stop your periods. Women using this device may experience an improvement in their PMS symptoms. This contraceptive device is also known to treat moderate fibrosis. On inserting this device, you will not experience any kind of interference while engaged in a sexual act.

Side effects of the contraceptive device

Mirena, just like other long-term reversible contraceptive methods, can cause side effects in women who use this device. One in ten women using this device may experience side effects such as changes in menstrual bleeding and development of cysts in their ovaries. Some of the less common side effects of this IUS device include acne, decreased sex drive, depression, abdominal pain, nervousness and nausea. However, these minor side effects are said to dissipate as time goes and your body gets used to the device. Some of the unusual side effects include inflammation of the womb or cervix, bloating, loss or hair or growth and mood changes. Very rarely women may experience perforation of the womb as a side effect.