Mirena is the best option for birth control for many women. Highly effective in preventing Pregnancy, a long-term IUD is a no-fuss solution, requiring only a simple one-off placement, lasting 5-7 years.  Like any other IUDs, women must go to a qualified doctor, and here at Main St Lilydale, we have experience lady GP’s to insert the Mirena. Such an IUD insertion technique takes only a few minutes and ensures adequate birth prevention. Since the entire procedure is non-surgical, there is no need for anaesthesia or incisions. (although local anaesthetic spray is available if the procedure is uncomfortable) After Mirena insertion, women can continue with their daily activities. However, they might experience mild pain like period cramps or even feel nauseous after insertion. Rarely the Mirena insertion can cause complications like perforation of the uterus or heavy bleeding. Whether you have mild symptoms or severe complications, it is imperative to consult a medical expert on time.

In this guide, we will walk you through the procedure of Mirena insertion and things you should expect or follow before, during, and after the procedure. But first, let’s understand:

What Is Mirena Used For?

Mirena insertion is used to prevent the chances of pregnancy in women. The entire UID procedure offers a long-term way to ensure birth control. Most women prefer Mirena insertion over other UID options – at perimenopause or menopause stage – due to the following reasons:

• Reliable and inexpensive contraception
• Suitable for women having zero tolerance for oral estrogens and suffering from migraines
• Lower circulating hormone dose
• Reduces heavy period or stops menstruation completely
• Safe for hormonal replacement therapy (that uses estrogen patches or gel)

Book an online appointment at Main St Lilydale medical centre

What to Expect Before Mirena Insertion

Before Mirena insertion, your doctor will perform a quick check to confirm whether you are pregnant or not. If you are, we recommend not to continue this process as it may increase the chances of a miscarriage. Also, take note of your menstrual cycles. Women can have their Mirena insertion during the first seven days of a menstrual cycle. In the case of irregular periods, avoid having any unprotected intercourse for at least three weeks before the insertion. Either way, your doctor will perform a urine pregnancy test for confirmation. A urine pregnancy test is not required for those:

• At postmenopausal by one year or more and over the age of 50
• At postmenopausal by two years or more and under the age of 50
• Already having a reliable contraception

What to Expect During Mirena Insertion

During the Mirena insertion procedure, you may experience a discomforting feeling. The procedure may reduce your heart rate and blood pressure. Make sure to consume a considerable amount of food and fluid before the insertion procedure. To reduce the pain and discomfort, consider taking period-pain tablets (paracetamol, ibuprofen, naproxen…) with food at least an hour before the procedure. You may feel a bit nauseous during or after the insertion, so avoid being a designated driver to go home. Take ample amount of rest for the entire day and do not perform any strenuous activity.

What to Expect After Mirena Insertion

After the insertion procedure, you should take a rest in the doctor’s office for at least 15 minutes. You may experience temporary cramping and backaches following the procedure. Some may even feel dizzy or faint post-insertion, but it is common. Ask one of your family members or a friend to accompany you on the day of IUD insertion. Do not insert anything into your vagina for the next 24 hours post-procedure – tampon or sexual intercourse. Also, check your Mirena thread every month. If the thread is not in place or seems missing, do not panic. Simply consult a doctor.

If you want to know more about Mirena Insertion procedure, call us on (03) 9739 3837 and book your appointment with one of our Yarra Valley medical doctors.