The Mirena System
A contraceptive and menorrhagia (heavy period) treatment lasting 5 years
The Mirena device is a hormonal intrauterine system which releases a small quantity (av 15mcg Levonorgestrol/day). This results in:
Period Control
- some spotting is common
- lighter, shorter periods
- usually the periods decrease over time
- by one year, 1 in 5 women have no periods
Contraception
- reduced uterine lining (endometrium)
- increased thickness of cervical mucus creating a barrier (like the minipill)
- inhibition of sperm to egg binding
- effective as sterilisation (2 pregnancies per 1,000)
Availability: The Mirena is available through your GP who may refer you to a trained GP (such as Dr Blayney) or gynaecologist to have it fitted. It is fully funded with a Special Authority number (see below) although a precription fee still applies. It is also available from your GP or specialist through Schering for about $300 (plus the fitting cost) for those who don't qualify.
Special Authority: If heavy periods are not responding to standard treatments and there is evidence of iron deficiency (Haemoglobin below 120g/l, Ferritin below 16mctg/l), your GP or specialist can apply for a Special Authority number.
You will still have to pay:
- the GP or gynaecologist fee for the initial consultation
- the pharmacy prescription fee ($15 or $3 with CS Card)
- the GP or gynaecologist fee for fitting the device