Mirena Coil

Hazelhill Family Practice provides consultations and fittings for the Mirena coil.

The Mirena coil has proven to be popular amongst women all around the world, having revolutionised contraceptive care.

There are three main benefits to using the Mirena coil.

1. The Mirena coil acts as a long term, effective method of contraception, which can be easily reversed.

At Hazelhill Family Practice, we fit the Mirena coil inside the uterus. In this position the Mirena coil emits a small amount of a progesterone called levonorgestrol, which is released into the lining of the uterus. This inhibits fertilisation, preventing pregnancy.  It is also effective for a period of up to 5 years.

The Mirena coil can be removed at any time and fertility returns immediately. Again at Hazelhill Family Practice we are happy to provide consultations to fit the Mirena coil and to remove or replace them when the time comes.

The Mirena coil can even be fitted shortly after a woman has given birth (6 weeks after delivery). The coil does not impact milk production so is suitable for breast feeding mothers.

2. The Mirena coil can be used to reduce menstrual blood flow, particularly for patients who suffer from heavy periods (ie, heavy menstrual bleeding).

3. The Mirena coil can also used in conjunction with an oestrogen as part of the hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women going through menopause. 

Menopause is a natural, gradual process which usually takes place in women aged between 45 and 55.  Although this is a normal biological process, women can find it distressing, particularly when they start experiencing symptoms such as hot flushes or night sweats.

Using oestrogen can help relieve the symptoms of menopause, but taking them on their own increases the risk of abnormal growth or cancer of the lining of the womb.  This is where the Mirena coil comes in.  Using a progestogen as part of a HRT regimen, like the hormone in the Mirena coil (levonorgestrel), protects the lining of the womb.  This also lowers the risks.

How does the Mirena coil work?

• The Mirena coil thickens the mucous in the cervix (opening of the womb), making it difficult for sperm to get through and fertilise the egg.
• The environment inside the uterus changes, due to the presence of the Mirena coil, making it hostile for the sperm to move.
• The coil inhibits implantation by keeping the lining of the womb thin.

Any patients of Hazelhill Family Practice considering using the Mirena coil should be aware that it does affect the menstrual cycle. In some cases, women may experience spotting or longer periods to begin with.  However after 3-6 months the periods become usually become lighter, shorter and less painful. While in other cases, some women have no periods at all.

How is the Mirena coil inserted?

Fitting the Mirena coil is actually a quick procedure. Preparations for the insertion usually take about 10 minutes, but the actual fitting of the system can be done in less than a minute.

The Mirena coil is inserted into the womb through the vagina but using a specially designed fitting tool. Most women find the fitting causes a little bit of discomfort. If you are concerned about possible pain during the procedure, using painkillers in advance of the fitting may be advisable.

The cervix is cleaned using an antiseptic solution and then the depth of the uterine cavity is measured.  After this process is completed the Mirena coil is placed into the womb via a thin, flexible plastic tube.

Cost of Mirena coil consultation:

At Hazelhill Family Practice, the cost for patients who wish to have a Mirena coil is as follows:

*If the patient is outside the age range for the HSE Free Contraception Scheme.

How do I make an appointment at Hazelhill Family Practice?

To book your Mirena coil appointment at Hazelhill Family Practice click here and fill in the appointment form.

You can also call the Hazelhill Family Practice on 094 9630091.