Whats all the hype about the MIRENA IUD?
The Mirena IUD is a relatively new IUD, (Intrauterine Device), with the stem of the IUD impregnated with levonorgestrel, the progestin hormone found in many birth control pills. It is an extremely effective, very low maintenance, long lasting form of birth control. Once inserted, it is immediately effective, and lasts for 5 years. It is ideal for insertion when breast feeding, avoiding most of the initial side effects. “What side effects?” you ask. Well, the mirena has the potential to completely eliminate your periods. This is accomplished by the high hormone concentrations in the uterus itself. The lining of the uterus gradually thins to the point that it no longer bleeds. The thinning of the lining is accomplished by bleeding it down to its thinnest possible thickness. When you are breast feeding the lining is already thin, and the “break in” time is very short. If you are not breast feeding, the bleed down period can be two to three months. What does that mean? Well, you may bleed
