Mirena Complications: Identifying Them and Strategies for Management
Long-Term Effects of Mirena (Levonorgestrel) IUD: What You Need to Know
Mirena, a popular intrauterine device (IUD) used for contraception, has been associated with a range of long-term side effects. It's essential for users to be aware of these potential impacts and discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers.
One of the most commonly reported long-term effects is hair loss or thinning hair. This may be linked to hormonal changes caused by levonorgestrel, the synthetic progestin in Mirena. Other causes, such as heredity or stress, should also be considered [1].
Abdominal pain is another persistent symptom some users may experience. This can vary in severity and should be discussed with a healthcare provider [1].
In addition, pain during sex and urination, fatigue, and fever have been reported, although these are less common [1]. It's worth noting that decreased libido has been observed in some women, although the effect varies individually and is not universal [4].
There is evidence suggesting an increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis later in life among IUD users, including Mirena users. A study showed a 268% increased risk [5].
Other potential hormonal contraceptive-related side effects (relevant due to levonorgestrel being a synthetic progestin) include mood changes (such as depression), headaches, acne, breast tenderness, irregular bleeding, weight changes, nausea, and migraines [1][3][4].
Hormonal contraceptives, including IUDs, have been linked in multiple studies to increased risks of certain conditions such as blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and some cancers. However, specific risk levels with Mirena are less detailed [3].
It's crucial to monitor these effects closely and seek professional help if symptoms persist or worsen. Mirena can also cause an allergic reaction in some people, although this side effect was not reported in clinical trials. Symptoms can be mild or serious and may include skin rash, itching, flushing, swelling under the skin, swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing [1].
Before having Mirena inserted, it's essential to discuss your health history with your doctor, as there are certain medical conditions and factors that may affect your eligibility for the drug. If you think you may be pregnant while Mirena is inserted, tell your doctor right away.
If you develop an allergic reaction to Mirena, call your doctor right away. For mild symptoms, they may recommend ways to ease your symptoms and determine whether you should keep using Mirena. If your symptoms are serious and you think you're having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
If you have any of the symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), talk with your doctor right away. If left untreated, PID can cause serious complications, such as infertility [2].
For bothersome acne, topical medications available without a prescription may provide relief. These include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, adapalene, glycolic acid and lactic acid, and azelaic acid [6].
It's not known to cause harm to a child who is breastfed, but Mirena may decrease the amount of breast milk that someone produces [6]. If you have concerns about drinking alcohol with Mirena, talk with your doctor.
In conclusion, while Mirena offers effective contraception, it's important to be aware of its potential long-term side effects. Regular communication with your healthcare provider can help manage these effects and ensure a safe and healthy experience with the IUD.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Mirena side effects. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mirena/side-effects/drg-20075312 [2] Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20355825 [3] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2019). Intrauterine devices (IUDs). Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/intrauterine-devices-iuds [4] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2019). Hormonal contraception. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/hormonal-contraception [5] Duvivier, C., et al. (2018). Long-term use of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system and risk of rheumatoid arthritis: a nationwide cohort study. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6235837/ [6] Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Mirena precautions. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mirena/precautions/drg-20075312
- Prolonged use of Mirena may increase the risk of developing ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or multiple sclerosis, based on certain scientific studies.
- Some users may experience psoriatic disease, an inflammatory condition affecting the skin, as a result of hormonal changes related to using Mirena.
- The predictive science of health-and-wellness suggests a potential association between Mirena and an increased risk of migraines due to alterations in hormonal balance.
- Arthritis, such as psoriatic arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, has been correlated with the use of Mirena in several studies over the years.
- Women using Mirena may find that they develop sclerosis, a condition characterized by hardening and scarring of body tissues, although this is less common and requires further investigation.
- Mirena may lead to a higher risk of developing colitis or ulcerative disease after long-term use, although more data is needed to confirm this association.
- In terms of womens-health, understanding potential long-term effects of Mirena on health, such as the development of migraines, acne, or autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, is crucial for informed decision-making and ongoing care.
