Mirena IUS

The IUS will need to be fitted by your doctor. The procedure takes about ten minutes and you will need to be screened for infections such as STIs first. The doctor will check the size and position of your cervix before the IUS is inserted through it into your uterus. A speculum will be used to hold your vagina open and you will be given a local anaesthetic to minimise any discomfort. Two small threads will hang down through the cervix, which you and your doctor can use to check that the IUS remains in place. You should stay lying down for a little while afterwards, but the whole procedure should only take about ten minutes. When you decide to have the IUS removed, it will need to be done by a doctor. Your fertility should quickly return to normal.

The Mirena IUS is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy and it is very easy to use. You don’t have to remember to do anything to maintain your protection or to pause before sex to fit a contraceptive. Having the IUS fitted can also help to relieve heavy periods, so it can be a good choice if you have menstrual problems. It might even make your periods stop altogether.

Some women experience irregular or heavy bleeding in the first few months, or side effects such as headaches, back pain, nausea or breast pain. You can discuss these with your doctor when you visit for a two-month check up or get in touch at any time if you are concerned. Your doctor will explain all of the risks before you have the Mirena IUS fitted. You should also remember that the IUS isn’t able to protect you against STIs, so you may need to use condoms as well.