- 1. How does it work?
- 2. What women can use the IUD?
- 3. Does IUD replace the need for surgery?
- 4. What are the possible side effects?
- 5. When should it not be used?
- 6. IUD fattening?
The Mirena IUD, also known by its generic name LNG-20, is a plastic, T-shaped device that contains levonorgestrel, a hormone similar to progesterone, which helps prevent the development of the endometrium, which is the type of tissue that grows excessively in women with endometriosis.
Thus, the Mirena IUD can be indicated for the treatment of endometriosis, especially to relieve symptoms such as severe cramps, bleeding and excessive tiredness. See in what other situations the Mirena IUD is used and ask any questions about this device.
1. How does it work?
The LNG-20 IUD, popularly known as Mirena, releases small amounts of progesterone in the uterus, which prevents the function of the ovaries, causing a regression of the endometrial tissue and comes to prevent up to 70% of endometriosis surgeries.
Unlike the copper IUDs used in the past, this does not lead to large blood losses and, therefore, does not contribute to iron deficiency anemia and can be used for up to 5 consecutive years. Furthermore, as long as it is well placed, it is 99% effective in preventing of pregnancy from the first day of use.
2. What women can use the IUD?
The IUD can generally be used by any woman who does not wish to become pregnant, however, as its prolonged use can have some effects such as severe cramps and bleeding in the first 6 months, it is usually reserved for women in whom treatment with oral contraceptives has not been effective.
3. Does IUD replace the need for surgery?
This IUD can be effective in avoiding surgery, but it can also be used as a way of maintaining the treatment after surgery to remove endometrial tissue that is spread throughout the reproductive system.
4. What are the possible side effects?
Although the use of an IUD can relieve the symptoms of endometriosis, it can also cause other side effects, especially in the first 6 months. These effects include:
- Pimples on the face; Decreased libido; Headache; Abdominal or back pain; Nausea; Increased weight; Irregular bleeding.
If any of these symptoms appear, it is important to inform the gynecologist to assess whether it is necessary to remove the device and start treatment with other options. See all the options available for the treatment of endometriosis.
5. When should it not be used?
The Mirena IUD is not indicated for women with a large endometriosis in the ovaries, and in these cases, surgery to remove excess endometrial tissue is more indicated. It is also not indicated when the woman has a disease that prevents the use of hormones.
6. IUD fattening?
The influence of the IUD on weight varies according to the type of IUD and the woman's characteristics. In the case of copper IUDs, for example, in which there is no release of hormones, there is no interference in weight gain or loss. On the other hand, the Mirena IUD, which is characterized by the release of hormones, can promote fluid retention and, consequently, change in the woman's weight.
Regardless of the type of IUD, it is possible to avoid weight gain through exercise and balanced nutrition. Learn how to have a healthy diet.
