- There are copper and hormonal (mirena) intrauterine devices.
- They are among the most effective methods of contraception.
- It is safe.
- Gynefix provides 5 years protection
- TCu 380A (copper spiral) can stay in the patient for 10 years.
- Mirena (contains levanorgestrel; LNG-IUD) can stay in the patient for 5 years.
What is an intrauterine device?
They are small, flexible, T-shaped or bead-shaped copper-coated devices such as gynefix. It is inserted into the uterus by your doctor.
How does the intrauterine device work?
- By creating a reaction in the uterus, it prevents the sperm from reaching the egg.
- Hormonal sipiral also provides extra protection by releasing hormones.
Can I get pregnant immediately after removal?
If there is no infection with the spiral and adhesions have not formed in the uterus or other pelvic organs, you can get pregnant immediately after the spiral is removed. Therefore, I recommend that you do not interrupt your regular gynaecology checks.
When should the spiral be applied?
It can be applied while menstruating or it can be applied at any time after menstruation is over, making sure that there is no pregnancy.
How long after birth?
It is recommended to be applied preferably 4 weeks after normal birth and 8 weeks after caesarean section. It can also be applied within the first 48 hours after birth. However, after birth, in case of infection, it is not recommended to be applied before the infection is cured.
How long after a miscarriage or abortion can the spiral be applied?
- It can be applied immediately after.
- If it was applied in the first 12 days, there is no need for additional protection method.
- In case of infection after miscarriage or septic abortion (infection and miscarriage), it is not recommended to be applied before the infection is cured.
Will I have pain and bleeding after spiral application?
After the application, there may be mild cramp-like pain that day and may last for 2 days, but if the severity of bleeding increases or bleeding is prolonged, I recommend that you consult your doctor.
Bleeding is expected in the first months, but it is expected to improve afterwards, and the pain may be mild. The patient should be evaluated in case of excessive bleeding, intermittent bleeding, groin pain.
Who should not have a spiral?
It is not recommended for women who have sexually transmitted diseases or who are in the risky group or who are in the risky group in terms of having these diseases, who have discharge, who have infections, who have a uterine anomaly in which the spiral cannot be placed.
Hormonal spiral is also not recommended for women with cirrhosis, liver tumours and active viral hepatitis.
How many years of protection do spirals provide?
Copper ones provide protection for 10 years, Mirena for 5 years and Gynefix for 5 years.
What are the side effects of medicated spiral?
Irregular bleeding, inability to menstruate, slight weight gain, breast tenderness, acne, mood changes, headache.
Increase in ovarian cysts like all progesterone-containing drugs: actually, let's not call it a cyst; it may cause follicle growth.
Can Spiral Be Used in People with Bleeding Problems?
Yes, we use spirals containing progesterone (levanorgestrel), which we call Mirena, especially for therapeutic purposes.
What are the Advantages of Medicated Spirals over Combined Contraceptives?
It can be used in patients with cardiovascular diseases, smokers, fibroids, hypertension patients, heart attack or cerebrovascular occlusion, high cholesterol, migraine, diabetes, thyroid disease, gallstones (with doctor's recommendation).
Does Mirena Cause Cancer?
On the contrary, it reduces the risk of endometrium (uterus) and cervix (cervix) cancer.
Can Mirena be used in case of breast cancer, cirrhosis, clot in deep veins?
No, it should not be used.
Can People with Benign Lesions (sores) in the Cervix such as CIN have a Spiral?
Yes.
Can IUD (spiral) be inserted in the presence of well-formed cysts in the breast?
Yes
Which spiral should I prefer in patients with dysmenorrhoea (menstrual pain) or endometriosis and excessive menstrual bleeding?
I should prefer hormonal spiral because copper spiral can increase pain.
Can a spiral be worn in patients with fibroids?
It can be applied if it does not disrupt the inner surface of the uterus. It is even applied therapeutically in patients with fibroids and abnormal uterine bleeding.
Can Spiral be inserted in patients with Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (Uterine and Tube, Ovarian Inflammation)?
If 3 months have passed and there is no infection, it can be applied.
Do Spirals Cause Cancer?
On the contrary, they reduce the risk of endometrium (uterus) and cervix (cervix) cancer.
Will I have an ectopic pregnancy if I conceive with a spiral?
Contrary to popular belief, those with a spiral have fewer ectopic pregnancies than those without, because they are less likely to become pregnant. However, if conception occurs with a spiral, this pregnancy is more likely to be an ectopic pregnancy.
Should I have an abortion if I get pregnant with a spiral?
It is recommended to remove the spiral due to the risk of infection and the development of a serious infection picture called septic shock. When removed, there is a 30-35% risk of miscarriage. Abortion should be recommended to pregnant women who do not want the pregnancy to continue.
Half of the pregnancies that continue with the spiral result in miscarriage or premature birth.
Does it cause pain during sex?
No, it does not. If pain occurs, the underlying pathology should be investigated.
Can a spiral be inserted in case of pelvic inflammatory disease?
No. It can be inserted after recovery.
If a pelvic inflammatory condition develops while having a spiral, should the spiral be removed?
It does not have to be removed, but it should be treated with antibiotics immediately. You should make the best decision with the guidance of your doctor.
Questions to be asked before spiral insertion;
- Are there wounds on the vulva, vagina, cervix (cervix)?
- Is there pain in the abdomen when you move the cervix?
- Is there vaginal purulent discharge?
- Does it bleed when you touch the cervix?
- Is there an anatomical problem with examination and ultrasound?
Should I use antibiotics after spiral insertion?
If there is no risk of sexually transmitted infection, routine antibiotic use is not recommended.
Should I take painkillers before spiral insertion?
Taking ibuprofen (200-400mg) or paracetamol (325-1000mg) 30 minutes before insertion can relieve pain.
When should I go for a follow-up visit after spiral insertion?
After 3-6 weeks.
Should I be afraid if I have menstrual pain after the spiral or if my bleeding increases or becomes irregular?
Normally, these are expected findings until 3-6 months later, but you should consult your doctor. Your doctor may recommend medicines that may be effective in stopping or regulating bleeding.
Can a new spiral be inserted without a break after the spiral expires?
Yes, you can.
What is the failure rate of contraception?
The probability of pregnancy is 6-8/1000 with copper spiral and 1/1000 with mirena.