Let's get real about it
An IUD, or intrauterine device, is a form of contraception that is placed in the uterus by a healthcare provider and can provide long-lasting pregnancy prevention. Kyleena is a hormone-releasing IUD that works for up to 5 years. Mirena is also a hormone-releasing IUD that prevents pregnancy for up to 8 years. Mirena can also be used to decrease menstrual blood loss for up to 5 years in women who have heavy menstrual flow and who also want to use a birth control method that is placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Keep scrolling to learn more about IUDs and see if it's the right choice for you.
Kyleena and Mirena isn't right for everyone. Prior to placement, you should review your health history with your healthcare provider to learn if an IUD could be right for you and discuss the side effects associated with Kyleena and Mirena.
How does an IUD actually work?
The hormone levonorgestrel, that’s released into your uterus by Kyleena and Mirena, prevents pregnancy most likely by:
- Thickening cervical mucus, preventing sperm from entering the uterus
- Inhibiting sperm movement, so it’s more difficult to reach and fertilize an egg
- Thinning the lining of your uterus, making it less likely for an egg to attach to the uterus
It is not known exactly how these actions work together to prevent pregnancy.
Kyleena basics
Watch an overview of the Kyleena IUD (intrauterine device).
See Full Prescribing Information for Kyleena.
What are my birth control options?
There are a lot of birth control methods out there, so it’s important to know what your options are. The chart below gives the low-down on various birth control options, how each method is used, and the chances of becoming pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more.
Which IUD for birth control is right for me?
I want a 5-year IUD with the lowest dose of hormones
Visit the Kyleena site to learn more
I want an IUD that will also help with my heavy periods
Visit the Mirena site to learn more
I want to learn more about paying for an IUD
Visit the Cost & Insurance page to learn more
INDICATION FOR KYLEENA
Kyleena® (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) is a hormone-releasing IUD that prevents pregnancy for up to 5 years.
INDICATIONS FOR MIRENA
Mirena® (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) is a hormone-releasing IUD that prevents pregnancy for up to 8 years. Mirena also treats heavy periods for up to 5 years in women who choose intrauterine contraception.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR KYLEENA AND MIRENA
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If you have a pelvic or genital infection, get infections easily, or have certain cancers, don't use Kyleena or Mirena. Less than 1% of users get a serious pelvic infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
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If you have persistent pelvic or stomach pain, or excessive bleeding after placement, tell your healthcare provider (HCP). If Mirena comes out, call your HCP and avoid intercourse or use non-hormonal back-up birth control (such as condoms or spermicide). Mirena may go into or through the wall of the uterus and cause other problems.
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Pregnancy while using Kyleena or Mirena is uncommon but can be life threatening and may result in loss of pregnancy or fertility.
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Ovarian cysts may occur but usually disappear.
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Bleeding and spotting may increase in the first 3 to 6 months and remain irregular. Periods over time usually become shorter, lighter, or may stop.
Kyleena and Mirena do not protect against HIV or STIs.
Only you and your HCP can decide if Kyleena or Mirena is right for you. Kyleena and Mirena are available by prescription only.
For important risk and use information about Kyleena, please see Full Prescribing Information
For important risk and use information about Mirena, please see Full Prescribing Information
