Mirena

Mirena is a brand of hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) used for birth control. The brand is produced by the pharmaceutical company Bayer and has been available in the United States since 2000.

The Mirena IUD consists of a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. The device releases a low dose of the hormone levonorgestrel, a progestin, which thickens cervical mucus, inhibits ovulation, and prevents fertilization. Mirena is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy and can provide contraceptive protection for up to five years.

In addition to its contraceptive benefits, Mirena is also approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat heavy menstrual bleeding and to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia, a condition that can lead to endometrial cancer. Mirena may also provide relief from symptoms of endometriosis, although it is not specifically approved for this use.