Can The Kyleena And Mirena Iuds Affect Your Weight
While the prescribing information for Kyleena does not mention weight gain as a side effect, the prescribing information for Mirena does note that weight gain may be a side effect. However, although 6% of women who used Mirena reported weight gain, it was not known if the weight gain was due to Mirena.
In general, hormonal birth control can cause side effects such as bloating and water retention, which is not the same as weight gain due to an increase in body fat. For many, the weight gain is small , and the benefits of birth control outweigh the possibility of a small weight gain. Most adults naturally gain one or two pounds per year, regardless of birth control. If weight gain is a concern, consult your healthcare provider before deciding on a hormonal IUD or another form of birth control.
There Are Two Types Of Iuds:
The main mechanism of both types of IUDs is the same: The presence of the device initiates a local inflammatory response that kills sperm and prevents fertilization from occurring.
Non-hormonal IUDs
Also known as the copper IUD, Paragard contains copper, which has spermicidal effects. Paragard is the longest-lasting reversible birth control method availableit is effective for 10 years. With Paragard, you have monthly periods, which can be heavier and crampier than what youre used to, especially at first, as your body adjusts to the device. If you prefer a non-hormonal method and still want to get your period, this method may be right for you.
Hormonal IUDs
Mirena and Kyleena, which last at least five years, and Skyla and Liletta, which last three years, release a very low dose of the hormone progestin, which is also found in birth control pills. Unlike many birth control pills, they dont contain estrogen. Progestin thickens cervical mucus, which creates a barrier to sperm entry and may prevent ovulation in some women. This can cause lighter periods, and some women stop menstruating altogether, which is completely safe. Unlike oral contraceptives, the progestin in these IUDs is primarily delivered locally and, thus, is associated with fewer side effects.
Many health care providers consider the IUD the gold standard when it comes to birth control. Heres why.
Note: The word IUD below refers to all five types of IUDs unless otherwise noted.
Which Iud Is Best For You
Heres a secret: female doctors and family planning providers are way more likely to use IUDs than U.S. women overall. Maybe its because they know the intrauterine device is safe, low-maintenance, and super-effective.
There are two different types of intrauterine devices : hormonal and non-hormonal. There are currently four brands of hormonal IUDsMirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleenaand one brand of non-hormonal IUD, ParaGard. You may have heard about the different brands in the media, but, fancy TV commercials aside, whats the difference between them and is one of them right for you?
First things first: Whats the same about all IUDs?
Lets start by looking at what hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs have in common:
How are the hormonal IUDs different?
All the hormonal IUDs prevent pregnancy by releasing a very small amount of a progestin hormone called levonorgestrel each day. The progestin acts locally in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Compared to folks using the pill and some other hormonal methods, those using hormonal IUDs have much less hormone in their blood. Hormonal IUDs dont contain estrogen, so they typically have fewer hormonal side effects than methods that do contain estrogen.
So what are the differences between the hormonal IUDs?
Mirena
Liletta
Skyla
Kyleena
How about the non-hormonal IUD?
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How To Treat Iud
Treating mood swings related to birth control may be as simple as changing the type of IUD you use or switching to non-hormonal birth control. You may also find that prescription antidepressants help offset the changes in your mood caused by the IUD. If your doctor suggests medication for depression or anxiety, they can help you make sure that there wont be any interactions with other medications you take.
Other ways to manage your mood can involve changes in your diet and exercise habits. Eating whole foods rich in vitamins and minerals can improve your overall health and elevate your mood. Making sure to eat the right amount of healthy dietary fats and protein and reducing the amount of processed carbohydrates you eat can keep your blood sugar levels steady, avoiding spikes and crashes that can lead to moodiness.
Treating mood swings related to birth control may be as simple as changing the type of IUD you use or switching to non-hormonal birth control.
If you dont engage in regular exercise, speak with your doctor about a program thats right for you. Exercise is proven to naturally lift your mood, releasing endorphins and helping your brain produce more dopamine and serotonin, which reduces anxiety and depression.
Talking to a therapist or counselor or journaling may also help you manage the mood swings caused by your hormonal IUD. Many times, the moodiness associated with starting new hormonal birth control will subside over the course of a few months.
Kyleena Vs Mirena: Differences Similarities And Which Is Better For You

Drug overview & main differences | Conditions treated | Efficacy | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug interactions | Warnings | FAQ
Kyleena and Mirena are two brand-name medications used for birth control. Both medications are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration and contain a progestin called levonorgestrel .
Unlike traditional birth control pills that are taken by mouth, Kyleena and Mirena are bothintrauterine devices . A hormonal IUD is a tiny device that is inserted into your uterus by your healthcare provider and releases the hormone LNG slowly over time. The way these IUDs work is not entirely understood, but its suggested that LNG prevents ovulation and changes the cervical mucus and endometrial lining to prevent pregnancy.
One Kyleena IUD can be used for up to five years to prevent pregnancy. A Mirena IUD can be used for up to eight years to prevent pregnancy, or for up to five years to treat heavy menstrual bleeding. Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, Inc. makes both products.
Although both of these medications are IUDs that contain LNG, Kyleena and Mirena have some differences. Continue reading to learn all about Kyleena and Mirena.
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What Is The Difference Between A Hormonal And Copper Iud
There are two categories of IUDs: hormonal and nonhormonal. The one thats best for you depends on personal factors such as period regularity and cramping, your bodys response to hormones, and your desired length of contraception.
The nonhormonal one, also known as a copper IUD, has a small copper wire wrapped around the device. It has no hormones and can last up to 12 years. The copper IUD makes the environment hostile for the egg and the sperm to get together, says Dr. Weiss.
Among being a highly effective daily birth control option, it is also the most effective emergency contraceptive currently available if inserted within five days of unprotected intercourse. Once inserted, you have protection lasting for years, versus Plan B or other oral emergency contraceptives, which are only good for one use.
The second class of IUDs release a hormone called progesterone. Depending on the specific hormonal IUD, the pregnancy prevention method may be different. In one scenario, certain hormonal IUDs tend to make the mucus thicker, which makes it more difficult for the egg and the sperm to unite, Dr. Weiss said.
Another way hormonal IUDs work is by preventing ovulation, which lessens or entirely gets rid of some womens periods, says Dr. Weiss.
Mirena Side Effects Mood
Ill never forget my first patient years ago who told me she felt crazy when her IUD was placed. She was having panic attacks that alternated with depression. Her gynecologist told her the only option was to begin several mood altering drugs. She came to me in hopes of fixing her mood swings for good.
But she already had the answer.
She had tracked her symptoms and it was so clear that her mood swings began with the IUD. We worked for three months together to try to get her relief because she did not want to have it removed.
At month four, she was done.
She had her IUD removed and followed my Post-Birth Control Syndrome Protocol diligently. Within weeks she felt like herself again and all of her mood symptoms were gone. Remember earlier when when we were asking if Mirena messes with your hormones?
When she came back to my clinic she shared that her gynecologist dismissed the IUD had contributed in any way to her mood swings. I felt unheard and like what I was saying didnt matter to her at all. In her mind, I was the liar and the IUD was the perfect solution to every womans problems, she shared.
Heres the deal. These hormones can and do contribute to mood symptoms in women. Ask any woman who has lived through it and youll know how true that is. But there are also studies to support it!
Looking to support your body on or off hormonal birth control? Grab the Hormonal Birth Control Quick Start Guide
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Thoughts On The Pros And Cons Of Hormonal Iuds
Hi Lara, Im Brazilian and I follow your work on instagram and in your book!I would like to know about the Kyleena IUD, is it hormonal but half the rate of Mirena? Is it a good option?
Loved this article!Ive had mirena for almost 7 years and I honestly love it. Its one of the best things Ive ever done for myself. I can see how it might not be the best option for some but for me, right now, it works.
Thank you for this article. Very informative. I currently have a Mirena IUD, my third, and I LOVE it and have never had one issue regarding it. However, due to my age, nearing 51, I am experiencing some pre menopausal symptoms I was wondering your thoughts on using an essential oil for the hormonal imbalance. Ive been reading about Young Livings Progessence Plus and it seems like it would be exactly what I need. Im just not sure if it would effect the iud at all. .Your thoughts??
I have had mirena for four years and I dont feel it untill a week before my period, I can feel where it is and it feels like dull stabbing and the pain goes down my leg a bit untill I do a hip flexor stretch, that seems to help, and also advil. Judging by what youre saying I would be weiry of putting anything in there. That cyst thing sounds terrible! And I dont think they recommend iuds for women with endometriosis.
Pros Of Hormonal Iuds:
Unlike all other types of hormonal birth control, hormonal IUDs do not completely suppress ovulation . According to one study, Mirena suppresses ovulation in 85 percent of cycles during the first year , and then in 15 percent of cycles after that. Lower dose IUDs permit ovulation more of the time.
Compared to pills and implants, hormonal IUD delivers a lower dose of a contraceptive drug. The blood level of levonorgestrel in Mirena-users is about one-tenth of pill-users. Unfortunately, even that low dose can cause side effects .
Hormonal IUDs are more effective than almost any other method of contraception, with a failure rate of just 0.7 percent.
After insertion, you dont need to do anything or take anything, and IUDs lasts three years or five years .
In theory, fertility returns to normalalmost as soon as a hormonal IUD is removed.
Hormonal IUDs reduce menstrual flow by at least 90 percent, and thats a huge pro for heavy menstrual bleeding.
Hormonal IUDs can relieve some of the symptoms of endometriosis. For other endometriosis treatment ideas. .
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The Link Between Iuds And Acne
There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and non-hormonal . While Bieber didnt specify which type she has, hormonal IUDs can indeed cause acne, even if someone has never battled breakouts before, says ob-gyn Felice Gersh, M.D., founder/director of the Integrative Medical Group and author of PCOS SOS Fertility Fast Track.
Hormonal IUDs prevent pregnancy by releasing a very small amount of levonorgestrela chemical similar to progestin, which is a synthetic form of the sex hormone progesteroneeach day, explains Dr. Gersh. She describes levonorgestrel as an endocrine disruptor, meaning it changes the natural production and function of your bodys hormones to prevent egg fertilization, she says.
So, how can that lead to breakouts? By altering the levels of your hormones, these IUDs can change how the body works in a multitude of ways, including creating a state of inflammation. Acne is an outward manifestation of inflammation, explains Dr. Gersh. Essentially, the hormones in these IUDs can mimic the production of androgen sex hormones such as testosterone, potentially leading to increased oil production, which may lead to breakouts, says , a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
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Iuds Arent Perfect Some Cons To Note
IUDs do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases . Youll need to use a condom along with the IUD when you are at risk of an STD.
Relatively speaking, IUDs are not the most accessible form of contraception available today. Unlike other methods, such as birth control pills or even a self-administered Depo Provera shot , IUDs must be inserted by a trained medical professional in a sterile environment like a doctors office.
Other options, like the pill, are easier to get compared with an IUD. For women who want privacy, convenience, or who dont live near a physician, telehealth and telemedicine are great ways to access birth control, says Robin Watkins, the director of healthcare for Power to Decide, a nonprofit that runs the online birth control support network Bedsider. Remote consultations and mail delivery are not possible for birth control methods that require a trained professional to insert and remove the device, Watkins observes.
The most common risks for an IUD are infection soon after insertion. Fewer than one percent of users may get a serious pelvic infection called pelvic inflammatory disease . Theres also the possibility that it can be unexpectedly expelled from your body or embedded in your uterus while the latter occurrence can be serious, it is extremely rare, Dr. Destephano says. Hormones in certain brands may cause symptoms such as acne, he notes.
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Can You Get Pregnant With An Iud
IUDs are one of the most effective methods of birth control, offering 99% efficacy. But no method is 100% effective and, while unlikely, it is possible to get pregnant with an IUD.
Getting pregnant with an IUD also increases your chances of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, so you should see your doctor immediately if you suspect you may be pregnant.
Is Kyleena Or Mirena More Effective

Studies are not available comparing Kyleena to Mirena. Looking at each drug individually,Kyleenas information states that the Kyleena IUD is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy for each year of use. Over five years, it is 98.5% effective.
Mirena states similar informationit is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy for up to eight years.
Each IUD works as an effective method of contraception. They are appropriate for long-term use. Also, unlike birth control pills, you dont have to remember to take it every day.
These IUDs are also reversible contraception, meaning that when the IUD is removed, you can get pregnant. Most patients are able to get pregnant within 12 months after IUD removal. Only your healthcare provider can determine which medication is better for you, taking into account your medical history.
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They Are Highly Effective
The IUD is one of the most effective types of birth control currently on the market. The pregnancy rate for IUD users is less than one percent. In fact, its as effective as tubal ligationgetting your tubes tied. For this reason, its often recommended as an alternative to tubal ligation since it has the benefit of being easily reversible.
Does Kyleena Stop Periods
Kyleena can cause irregular bleeding. Some patients may even have increased bleeding at first. Some patients have spotting as well, or lighter periods. Some patients haveamenorrhea . In clinical trials, about 12% of patients on Kyleena had amenorrhea after one year. After three years, about 20% had amenorrhea, and after five years, about 23% had amenorrhea.
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Mirena Has A Little Sister Kyleena
Im pleased to be able to tell you about Mirenas little sister the Kyleena. The Klyeena has less progesterone than the Mirena: 19.5mg compared to 52mg over 5 years. The actual IUD is smaller and therefore easier to insert. This is particularly important for women who have never had a baby, who may have been worried about the discomfort of having a Mirena inserted. Ive been lucky enough to have inserted one already, and Im impressed!
The photograph below shows the Mirena on the left and the Kyleena on the right. You can see the difference in size.
The early research tells us that most women will continue to ovulate with the Kyleena , so there is minimal impact on your own hormones. It is just as reliable as the Mirena for contraception. My understanding of the research is that Kyleena will be particularly helpful for women who have had issues with side effects of progesterone symptoms such as fluid retention, weight gain, acne, moodiness or depression that are sometimes experienced with the oral contraceptive pill, Implanon or even the Mirena IUD.
Women can still use menstrual cups and tampons with either the Mirena or the Kyleena.
So good to have more choices. Thats what every woman wants.Oh, and chocolate with no calories please!
Dr Tonia Mezzini has been helping women to chose the best method of contraception for many years. If you would like expert advice on contraception, make an appointment to see Dr Tonia Mezzini today.