IUD for endometriosis: 6 most common questions

The Mirena IUD can be indicated for the treatment of endometriosis, especially to relieve symptoms such as intense cramps, bleeding and excessive tiredness.

This IUD is a plastic, T-shaped device that contains levonorgestrel, a progesterone-like hormone that helps prevent the development of the endometrium, which is the type of tissue that overgrows in women with endometriosis.

See what other situations the Mirena IUD is used in and ask any questions about this device.

1. How does it work?

The LNG-20 IUD, popularly known as Mirena, releases small amounts of progesterone into the uterus, which prevents ovarian function, causing a regression of endometrial tissue and prevents up to 70% of endometriosis surgeries.

Unlike the copper IUDs used in the past, this one does not lead to large blood losses and, therefore, does not contribute to iron deficiency anemia and can be used for up to 5 consecutive years and, in addition, as long as it is properly placed, it is 99% effective in preventing of pregnancy from the first day of use.

2. Which women can use the IUD?

The IUD can generally be used by any woman who does not wish to become pregnant, however, as its prolonged use can have some effects such as severe cramping and bleeding in the first 6 months, it is usually reserved for women in whom treatment with oral contraceptives has not been effective. .

3. Does the IUD replace the need for surgery?

This IUD can be effective avoiding surgery, but it can also be used as a way of maintaining treatment after surgery to remove endometrial tissue that is scattered throughout the reproductive system.

4. What are the possible side effects?

While IUD use can relieve endometriosis symptoms, it can also cause other side effects to develop, especially in the first 6 months. These effects include:

• Pimples on the face;
• Decreased libido;
• Headache;
• Abdominal or back pain;
• nausea;
• Weight gain;
• Irregular bleeding.

If any of these symptoms appear, it is important to inform the gynecologist to assess whether it is necessary to remove the device and start treatment with other options. See all available options for treating endometriosis.

5. When should it not be used?

The Mirena IUD is not indicated for women with large endometriosis in the ovaries, and in these cases, surgery to remove excess endometrial tissue is more indicated. It is also not indicated when the woman has a disease that prevents the use of hormones.

6. IUD fattening?

The influence of the IUD on weight varies according to the type of IUD and the characteristics of the woman. In the case of the copper IUD, for example, in which there is no release of hormones, there is no interference with weight gain or loss. On the other hand, the Mirena IUD, which is characterized by hormone release, can promote fluid retention and, consequently, change in women’s weight.

Regardless of the type of IUD, it is possible to prevent weight gain through exercise and a balanced diet. Learn how to have a healthy diet.

Watch the video with Dr. Helizabet Ribeiro, a gynecologist specializing in endometriosis who clarifies all doubts about this disease: