What is the Mirena Coil?
The Mirena coil is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus. It releases a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone, called levonorgestrel. This hormone is what makes the Mirena coil an effective contraceptive. But beyond contraception, Mirena can also be used to manage heavy periods and protect the lining of the womb in women taking oestrogen as HRT.
- Contraception: Mirena prevents pregnancy primarily by thickening cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach an egg. It also thins the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to a fertilized egg.
- Heavy Periods: The levonorgestrel released by the Mirena coil thins the lining of the uterus, reducing the amount of bleeding during your period.
- Endometrial Protection: As a form of progesterone, Mirena can protect the lining of the uterus in women taking estrogen as HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy).
What are Fibroids?
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or on the uterus. They are common, and many women have them without experiencing any symptoms. However, for others, fibroids can cause:
- Heavy or prolonged periods
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Lower back pain
- Pain during sex
Fibroids can vary in size, from tiny seedlings to larger masses that can distort the shape of the uterus.
Mirena Coil & Fibroids: How They Interact
The key question is: can Mirena help or worsen fibroid symptoms? The answer isn’t always straightforward and depends on several factors, including the size, location, and number of fibroids, as well as your individual symptoms.
Potential Benefits:
- Reduced Heavy Bleeding: The most common benefit of Mirena for women with fibroids is the reduction in heavy bleeding. Even if the fibroids themselves don’t shrink, Mirena can significantly lighten periods, improving quality of life and reducing the risk of anemia.
- Symptom Management: For some, the overall reduction in bleeding and associated symptoms like fatigue can make Mirena a worthwhile option, even if it doesn’t directly address the fibroids themselves.
Potential Considerations and Limitations:
- Fibroid Size and Location: If fibroids are very large or located in a way that distorts the uterine cavity, inserting or keeping a Mirena coil in place may not be possible. In some cases, fibroids can lead to expulsion (the coil coming out on its own).
- Pain: While Mirena can alleviate heavy bleeding, it might not significantly reduce pelvic pain caused directly by fibroids, particularly if the fibroids are large and pressing on other organs. Some patients may experience cramping or discomfort after insertion, but this often subsides within a few months.
- No Impact on Fibroid Size: It’s crucial to understand that the Mirena coil doesn’t shrink fibroids. While it can manage the symptoms of heavy bleeding, it’s not a treatment that eliminates the fibroids themselves.
- Irregular Bleeding: In the first few months after insertion, some women experience irregular bleeding or spotting before their periods become lighter. This is a common side effect of the Mirena coil and usually settles down over time. However, this could worsen the symptoms of heavy bleeding.
Important Considerations Before Getting a Mirena Coil With Fibroids:
Before making a decision, it’s essential to have a thorough discussion with our specialists. This will involve:
- A detailed review of your medical history: This includes the size, number, and location of your fibroids (ideally based on recent imaging like an ultrasound).
- A discussion of your symptoms: Understanding how fibroids are affecting your daily life is crucial to determining whether Mirena is a suitable option.
- Realistic expectations: It’s important to be clear about what Mirena can and cannot do. It can help manage heavy bleeding but won’t eliminate fibroids.
- Alternative Treatments: We will discuss other fibroid treatment options with you, such as medication, surgery, or uterine artery embolization (UAE). This ensures you have a complete picture of all available options.
Insertion and Follow-up
If you and our specialists decide that Mirena is the right choice, the insertion process is usually quick and straightforward. We offer various pain relief options, including local anesthetic gel or spray, entonox (gas and air), and for ultrasound-guided coil procedures, a cervical block.
After insertion, you can schedule a follow-up appointment to check the coil’s placement and discuss any concerns you might have (additional charges apply)..
When to Seek Medical Advice
It’s important to contact our clinic if you experience any of the following after Mirena insertion:
- Severe pain
- Fever
- Heavy bleeding that doesn’t improve
- Suspect the coil has been expelled
- Any other concerning symptoms
Making an Informed Decision
Deciding whether the Mirena coil is right for you when you have fibroids requires careful consideration and open communication with our specialists. By understanding the potential benefits and limitations, and by considering your individual circumstances and preferences, you can make an informed choice that supports your overall health and well-being.
