Hormone-Based Coils: Risks and Facts You Should Know

BlogContraceptive Coils

Written by

Catherine Smith

Published on

January 15, 2024

What Is A Mirena Coil? : Key Facts First.

The Mirena is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus. It releases a small amount of the hormone progestin, which thickens the mucus in the cervix and prevents sperm from reaching the egg. The Mirena can also thin the lining of the uterus, making it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant.

The hormone-based coil is a very effective method of contraception, with a failure rate of less than 1%. It is also a long-acting method of contraception, meaning that it can be left in place for up to 5 years.

Why You May Want To Consider The Mirena Coil As A Contraceptive

There are a number of key reasons why you may be considering a hormone-based coil such as the Mirena. Perhaps You don’t want to have to worry about taking a pill every day or having to remember to use a condom every time you have sex. But what are the risks and facts you should know before you make a decision?

What Are The Benefits Of The Mirena Coil?

There are many benefits associated with the use of hormone-based coils. These include:

– Reduced risk of pregnancy: Hormone-based coils are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, with a failure rate of less than 1%.

– Reduced risk of ovarian cancer: The use of hormone-based coils can also reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.

– Reduced risk of endometrial cancer: The use of hormone-based coils can also reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.

– Reduced risk of pelvic inflammatory disease: The use of hormone-based coils can also reduce the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease.

The coil is also very convenient. Once it has been inserted, you don’t have to do anything else to prevent pregnancy. You can leave it in for up to five years, and then have it removed when you want to start trying for a baby.

Another benefit of the coil is that it can be used as a emergency contraception. If you have unprotected sex, or your regular method of contraception fails, you can have the coil inserted up to five days afterwards to prevent pregnancy.

What Are The Potential Side Effects Associated With The Mirena?

Hormone-based coils are considered to be very safe. However, as with any medication, there are some potential risks associated with their use. These include:

– Cramping and bleeding during and after insertion

– Breast tenderness

– Headaches

– Nausea

– Irregular bleeding: You may experience irregular or lighter periods when using a hormone-based coil.

More serious side effects include:

– Pelvic inflammatory disease: There is a small risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) associated with the use of hormone-based coils.

– Ectopic pregnancy: There is also a small risk of ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus) associated with the use of hormone-based coils.

– Cancer: There is a very small increased risk of breast cancer and cervical cancer associated with the use of hormone-based coils.

– Mood swings

Limitations Of The Mirena Coil

It’s also important to note that the Mirena does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so you will still need to use condoms if you are at risk for STIs.

If you’re considering a hormone-based coil, it’s important to talk to your doctor about all of the risks and potential side effects. This is especially true if you have any medical conditions that could be affected by the use of hormonal contraception.

Non-Hormonal Coil Options

​There are many options available for women who do not want to or cannot take hormonal contraceptives. The non-hormonal coil is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy without using hormones.

The non-hormonal coil or copper coil is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the womb. It works by releasing copper, which is a natural spermicide, into the womb. This prevents sperm from reaching and fertilising an egg.

The non-hormonal coil is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. It can be used by women of all ages and is suitable for those who cannot or do not want to take hormonal contraceptives. It can be left in for up to 5 years, making it a very convenient method of contraception and can also be removed at any time if you wish to become pregnant.

The main advantage of the non-hormonal coil is that it does not contain any hormones. This means that there are no associated side effects, such as weight gain, mood swings or headaches.

The Importance Of Comprehensive Care and Regular Check-Ups

At The Coil Clinic, we don’t just talk you through your options. We also believe in the importance of comprehensive after care. 

As we age, our bodies go through changes that can impact our health in a variety of ways. For women, one of the most significant changes is the decline in reproductive hormones. This can lead to a host of problems, including changes in our menstrual cycles, hot flashes, night sweats, and more.

It is important to see your healthcare provider regularly when you are using hormone-based coils. This is because there is a small risk of complications, such as uterine bleeding or infection. In addition, your healthcare provider can monitor your progress and make sure that the coils are working properly.
If you are experiencing any changes in your health that are concerning, be sure to see your healthcare provider right away. Our dedicated team at The Coil Clinic will ensure you are receiving the very best specialist care to meet your ongoing individual needs. 

Dr Catherine Smith

Dr Catherine Smith is the founder of The Coil Clinic. A GP and Women's Health Expert with nearly 20 years of experience. She is a BMS Certified Menopause Specialist