Chapter 11
CHAPTER 11 - Levonorgestrel Intrauterine Device
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.