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CHAPTER 11 - Levonorgestrel Intrauterine Device

Key Points for Providers and Clients
  • Long-term pregnancy protection. Very effective for 5 years, immediately reversible.
  • Inserted into the uterus by a specifically trained provider.
  • Little required of the client once the LNG-IUD is in place.
  • Bleeding changes are common but not harmful. Typically, lighter and fewer days of bleeding, or infrequent or irregular bleeding.

What Is the Levonorgestrel Intrauterine Device?

  • The levonorgestrel intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) is a T-shaped plastic device that steadily releases a small amount of levonorgestrel each day. (Levonorgestrel is a progestin hormone also used in some contraceptive implants and oral contraceptive pills.) 
  • A specifically trained health care provider inserts it into a woman’s uterus through her vagina and cervix.
  • Also called the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system, LNG-IUS, or hormonal IUD.
  • Marketed under such brand names as Mirena, Liletta, Levosert, Kyleena, Skyla, and Jaydess. The Kyleena, Skyla, and Jaydess IUDs and their inserters are slightly smaller than the Mirena, Liletta, and Levosert.
  • Works by preventing sperm from fertilizing an egg.