IUD (Mirena®, Paraguard®)

Mirena® is a levonorgestrel containing IUD which has a five year duration and is placed in the uterus with minimal anesthesia in the office.  The benefits are 99.7% contraceptive effectiveness, but in addition, many patients may have a secondary benefit of reduced menstrual flow.  Mirena® can be changed every five years at the patient’s discretion and fertility should return within one month after removal.  There has been extensive research regarding the risks of complications since the Dalcon Sheild was used in the 60’s. All research indicates  that these are safe and effective methods of birth control. 

Paraguard® is a 10 year copper containing IUD which has no hormonal effects.  Paraguard® can be placed under minimal anesthetic in the office and will last for 10 years.  It is highly affective, but has little effect on the patient’s menstrual flow or menstrual cramps.   It is reversible and the patient should resume normal fertility soon after removal.