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Birth Control (Types and Options) »
If a woman is sexually active and she is fertile — physically able to become pregnant — she needs to ask herself, "Do I want to become pregnant now?" If her answer is "No," she must use some method of birth control (contraception).
If a woman does not want to get pregnant at this point in her life, does she plan to become pregnant in the future? Soon? Much later? Never? Her answers to these questions can determine the method of birth control that she and her male sexual partner use — now and in the future.
There are a number of different ways to describe birth control. Terms include contraception, pregnancy prevention, fertility control, and family planning. But no matter what the process is called, sexually active people can choose from a plethora of methods to reduce the possibility of their becoming pregnant. Nevertheless, no method of birth control av...
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
LEVONORGESTREL-RELEASING IMPLANT - INTRAUTERINE
(lee-voh-nor-JEST-rell)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Mirena
USES: This product is a small, flexible device that is placed in the womb (uterus) to prevent pregnancy. It is used in women who desire reversible birth control that works for a long time (up to 5 years). The device works by slowly releasing a hormone (levonorgestrel) that is similar to a certain substance made by a woman's body.
This product is only intended for women who have previously given birth and have only one sexual partner. It is not meant for women with a history of certain infections/conditions (e.g., pelvic inflammatory disease, sexually transmitted disease, a certain problem pregnancy called ectopic pregnancy). For more information, consult your doctor.
The use of this medication device does not protect you or your partner against sexually transmitted diseases (e.g., HIV, gonorrhea).
Carefully read all of the information provided by your doctor, and ask any questions you may have about this product or other birth control methods that may be right for you.
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before this medication device is inserted and each time it is re-inserted. The leaflet contains very important information about side effects and when it is important to call your doctor. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
This product is inserted into your uterus by a properly trained health care professional, usually once every 5 years or as determined by your doctor. The medication in the device is slowly released into the body over a 5-year period.
Have a follow-up appointment 4-12 weeks after insertion of this product to check that it is still correctly in place.
If you still desire birth control after 5 years, the medication device may be replaced with a new one. The medication device may also be removed at any time by a properly trained health care professional.
Learn all the instructions on how and when to check this product and its proper positioning in your body, and make sure you understand the problems that may occur with this product. See also Precautions section.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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