CONTRACEPTION
Confused about your contraceptive options? We are here to help! Our doctors are well equipped to guide you through the options and help you decide on the best contraception for you.
Dr Fikkers and Dr Purnell have extra experience and training in the area of contraception and womens health. Both of these doctors are trained in the insertion of the Implanon and Mirena/Kyleena and Copper IUD.
+ What is an IUD?
There are two types of IUD used in Australia, The Mirena IUD and Copper IUDs
The Mirena is an intrauterine device (IUD) that releases a small amount of hormone inside the uterus. It is made of soft and flexible plastic containing a hormone called levonorgestrel. It offers effective contraception that last for up to 5 years.
A Copper IUD contains no hormones and last 5-7 years.
+ How Does The Mirena IUD Work?
The hormone makes the mucus in the cervix thicker so that sperm cannot get into the uterus. It also affects the ability of the sperm and egg to move through the uterus and fallopian tubes, which reduces the chance of an egg being fertilised. It can also sometimes stop your ovaries from releasing an egg.
It also reduces menstrual bleeding which helps women who have heavy periods, even if they do not require contraception.
+ What are the benefits of using the Mirena IUD?
Highly Effective – It has an efficacy rate of more than 99% in preventing pregnancy and is one of the most effective forms of birth control
Convenient – It lasts for up to 5 years but can be removed anytime before then
Reversible – You can try to conceive as soon as Mirena is removed and there is no delay in fertility
Minimises periods – Mirena can be used as an effective option to manage heavy periods. Many women have either a very light period or no period at all
Oestrogen free – Mirena is suitable for women who cannot take the combined contraceptive pill (for example those who suffer from migraines, or who have had a blood clot in the past). It is also suitable to use while breastfeeding
+ Who Can Use the Mirena IUD?
Most women who want a reliable, long-term contraceptive can use it. This includes women who have not had children, women who are spacing their pregnancies, and those who have completed their families. Our doctors are able to insert the device in women who have not had children and in women who have had a cesarean delivery. They prefer to wait 12 weeks after delivery to minimise the risk of complications in the postnatal period.
If you would like to discuss the Mirena as a form of contraception for you, please make an appointment with one of experienced doctors to discuss your options.