"Another factor that makes it a better option is that it can be used for family planning purposes even if you have fibroids. However, it is effective only if the fibroids are small and few in numbers," informs Dr. Reshma Rafi, Gynaecologist and Laparoscopic Surgeon from Saifee hospital, Mumbai.

What Is Mirena?

It is basically a small T-shaped IUD which is coated with the hormone Progesterone. Once inserted in the uterus, it will release small amounts of the progesterone hormone for up to five years, thereby preventing pregnancy.

An Effective Contraceptive

So what makes Mirena an effective contraceptive?

"Mirena basically works in two ways. One, it increases the mucus in the cervix, thus preventing the sperm from getting through. Secondly, it thins the lining of your womb, thus preventing the egg from getting implanted in the uterus," explains Dr. Rafi.

In some women it may even stop ovulation.

A Solution for Heavy Periods

Mirena was initially developed as a contraceptive but it's effectiveness to lighten the periods was only discovered later.

Since the hormone that it secretes prevents your womb lining from thickening, it also reduces the amount of tissue that is shed as menstrual flow, thus making your period lighter.

Uterine Fibroids?

Family Planning Not a Problem The growth of fibroids is largely dependent upon the production of oestrogen. Most OCPs contain high levels of oestrogen. Therefore taking an OCP is ruled out if you have fibroids.

However, the Mirena helps you plan your family along with the fact that it cuts down on the production of oestrogen, thereby restricting the growth of fibroids.

Fitting

Consult your gynaecologist before going for it. Your doctor will advise you to undergo a thorough examination to check for any unusual growth in the womb or nearby areas, or infections etc.

The IUD will be inserted within any of the first five days of the beginning of your menses. This is done so as to avoid irregular bleeding or reduce the chance of the contraceptive being expelled by your body.

"Also, if your plan to use it post-abortion or delivery, it is advisable to wait at least for a month and a half, to let your body resume it's normal cycle and heal," explains Dr. Rafi.

Rejection Rate

Although the chance of it getting expelled from your womb is rare, it can happen without your notice.

However, if you have an increased blood flow or severe pain after inserting it, it could be an indication that it is not being accepted by your body and a warning that it can get expelled.