Mirena® | What It Is

Mirena is a type of intrauterine system, more commonly known as an IUD. But what is that, exactly?

An IUD, or intrauterine device, is a small, T-shaped device that is placed into the uterus by a trained healthcare provider during a routine office visit. It provides continuous, highly effective birth control. Keep in mind that no birth control is 100% effective.

Mirena is a hormone-releasing IUD that releases small amounts of a progestin hormone called levonorgestrel locally into the uterus. Mirena lasts for as long as you want, for up to 5 years.

Indications & Usage

Mirena (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) is a hormone-releasing system placed in your uterus to prevent pregnancy for as long as you want for up to 5 years. Mirena also treats heavy periods in women who choose intrauterine contraception.

Important Safety Information About Mirena

Only you and your healthcare provider can decide if Mirena is right for you. Mirena is recommended for women who have had a child.

• Don’t use Mirena if you have a pelvic infection, get infections easily or have certain cancers. Less than 1% of users get a serious infection called pelvic inflammatory disease. If you have persistent pelvic or abdominal pain, see your healthcare provider.

• Mirena may attach to or go through the wall of the uterus and cause other problems. If Mirena comes out, use back-up birth control and call your healthcare provider.

• Although uncommon, pregnancy while using Mirena 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 STDs.

Available by prescription only.

For important risk and use information about Mirena, please see the Full Prescribing Information.