HORMONES: IUD Mirena May Increase Ovarian Cyst Risk 

 

An IUD is a tiny device that's used to prevent pregnancy. Many women like this method of birth control because it works for several years and is very effective. One of the most common brand is Mirena.

 

The Mirena IUD is a hormonal IUD. It uses the hormone progestin. Because it is hormonal birth control it does have some side effects. One common side effect is ovarian cysts.

 

What are ovarian cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid filled sacs in an ovary or on it's surface. Many women will get ovarian cysts as part of the normal menstrual cycle and they often disappear without treatment. However in some cases they can rupture or cause pelvic pain. Some of the symptoms of ovarian cysts are:

• dull pain in the lower abdomen on one side.

• a feeling of fullness or bloating in the abdomen

• severe, sudden pain in the abdomen or pelvic area

• vomiting, and fever

• The last 2 are severe symptoms and you should contact your healthcare provider immediately if these occur.

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Mirena IUD increases the risk of ovarian cysts

Ovarian cysts are more common in women who use the Mirena IUD. Over 10% of women who use Mirena IUDs develop ovarian cysts. Mirena includes this warning on it's website:

"Some women using Mirena develop a painful cyst on the ovary. These cysts usually disappear on their own in 2 to 3 months. However, cysts can cause pain and sometimes cysts will need surgery."

 

Other side effects of the Mirena IUD include:

• weight gain

• headaches and migraine

• depression

• changes in monthly periods - either missed or increased bleeding

• Breast tenderness

• Pelvic inflammatory disease

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I can help

Keeping up with the latest research on health can be confusing. I can help you with a personalized plan that helps to keep your hormones balanced. Book a free nutrition assessment here.

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