Mirena IUD is a T-shaped, hormone-releasing system placed in your uterus to prevent pregnancy for up to five years.  It releases a progestogen (a hormone similar to the hormone progesterone, which is naturally produced by the female body).

Once the IUD is inserted it should not felt by the woman or her partner.  All IUDs available in Australia have fine nylon threads attached to the lower end of them so that when fitted, the threads extend through the cervix (neck of the uterus) into the upper vagina.  These threads allow the woman to check that the IUD is still in place and allow for easy removal of the device by a doctor. Mirena is approximately 99 % effective as contraception.  It can also be used to treat heavy periods and is about 80% effective in reducing or stopping periods.  Unfortunately 20% of ladies will still have annoying breakthrough bleeding or spotting, or uterine cramping that will require the IUD to be removed.

There are advantages and disadvantages of the Mirena IUD and Dr Marshall can discuss these with you.