Mirena Coil

[FawnFrenchieMum]

Does anyone know why the Mirena Coil is kept in for 5 years in the UK but 7 years in other countries? Is it a different type / strength (not sure if the correct terminology) or are the UK guidelines just being cautious?

The Bayer Mirena intrauterine system (a hormonal coil) contains levonorgestrel 52mg released at approximately 20 micrograms/24 hours - Electronic Medicines Compendium.
www.medicines.org.uk › emc
Mirena - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) - (emc)

It can be left in place for up to 7 years if used for contraception. The dose released per day is reduced after 5 years. There's a link to this research in the link below

"This rate decreases progressively to approximately 10mcg/day after 5 years and 8mcg/day after 7 years. By the end of the 7th year, Mirena should be removed and replaced at the time of removal with a new system if continued use is desired"

www.empr.com/home/news/mirena-approved-for-pregnancy-prevention-for-up-to-7-years/

The same Mirena product is used in the UK and the United States of America. In the UK it's curently licensed for 4 years, in practice for up to 5 years, to prevent pregnancy. The FDA only approved it's use for up to 7 years in August 2021

Sorry to jump in, but can your last one be left in or does it have to come out ?

I had this conversation with a hcp as mine is over 5 years now (a long story). The answer is that it still works but the failure rate increases. So depends on how worried you are about an accidental baby. It’s still tiny fractions of a percentage, but the recommendation at the moment is to double up with the pill past 5 years.

Sorry, I use it for heavy periods in peri menopause, not for contraception. I was wondering if your last one can just stay in, does it actually need to come out.

Thanks all!