Mirena Insertion/Removal
What is it?
Mirena is a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) that can provide long-term birth control (contraception). Parkhill Medical Centre offers Mirena insertions and removals.However, today they are additionally used to help women with thickened endometrium or heavy periods. It is a T shaped plastic device that is inserted into the uterus – the shape and placement of the device and small amounts of local hormones released all contribute to the prevention of pregnancy. Once inserted, the mirena IUD typically does not need to be removed for up to five years.
How to prepare for my IUD insertion?
Before the insertion procedure, you will need to book an appointment with your doctor to discuss whether an IUD is appropriate for you. If it is what your doctor recommends, you will receive a script for the device which you will be able to purchase from the pharmacy. Taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), one to two hours before the procedure can help reduce cramping during the procedure.
The mirena IUD can be inserted:
- Anytime during your menstrual cycle given that you are not pregnant.
- Immediately after pregnancy termination
- Immediately after delivering a baby vaginally or by caesarian section.
What to expect?
The IUD insertion takes place in our procedure room. Your IUD is inserted into the cervical canal, and then placed into your uterus. When the applicator is removed, the IUD remains in place. Once the procedure is over, your doctor and nurse will discuss how to manage post-procedure symptoms. It is recommended to rest for the remainder of the day of the procedure, and resume normal activities after 3-7 days.
Will the procedure be painful?
It is common for some discomfort or pain during the procedure which is generally due to cramping in the uterus which results from minor irritation during the insertion process.
How long does the procedure take?
The entire process will take around 60 minutes. It takes 20 minutes to prepare you for the procedure, 20 minutes for the procedure itself, and we ask that you stay for 20 minutes after your procedure to ensure you are not experiencing any abnormal or adverse reactions and symptoms.
IUD removal
The removal is typically a quicker process than the insertion. Your doctor will use forceps to grab the strings of the IUD and gently pull until the implant is extracted.
Side effects
Short term:
- Cramping
- Spotting
Long term:
- Headache
- Acne
- Irregular bleeding
- Breast tenderness
- Cramping or pelvic pain
IUD vs Implanon – which contraceptive is the right one for me?
Both are long term contraceptives, the main difference being that the IUD is placed in your uterus while the implanon is placed in your upper arm. They are equally effective as contraceptives, and it is a matter of personal choice when choosing between them. Your GP can discuss a range of options with you and help you decide which will work the best for you. Contraceptives to consider include:
- Intrauterine device (mirena insertion)
- Hormonal implant (implanon insertion)
- The oral contraceptive pills
- Contraceptive injections
- Condoms, diaphragms and other barrier methods
Fees
| IUD Insertion | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Service type | Payable on day (average estimate) | Medicare rebate | Out-of-pocket expenses | |
| Mirena IUD insertion | $313.00 | $163.80 | $149.20 plus pharmacy | |
| Mirena IUD insertion for HCC holders | $215.00 | $163.80 | $51.20 plus pharmacy | |