Chapter 11

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 and Liletta.
  • Works by preventing sperm from fertilizing an egg.