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There’s good news for Mirena users from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA): the Mirena can now be used for up to eight years for contraception. The Mirena is a hormonal intra-uterine device (IUD) and was previously approved for up to five years of use for contraception.
What’s changed?
Studies have now shown that the Mirena is safe and effective for up to eight years for contraception.
The TGA has now approved the Mirena for this extended use, which brings Australia into line with other countries such as the United States, where Mirena is already approved for eight years.
I already have the Mirena IUD what do I do?
If you already have the Mirena there’s nothing you need to do!
If you’re using the Mirena for contraception only (e.g. not for heavy menstrual bleeding or menopause treatment) then you can keep the Mirena you already have for up to eight years.
I’m using the Mirena for heavy menstrual bleeding, what does this mean for me?
If you’re using the Mirena to help with the symptoms of heavy menstrual bleeding, you can keep using the Mirena for up to eight years if it‘s continuing to improve your symptoms.
If you’re concerned about your symptoms, then it’s a good idea to speak to your doctor. If you have questions about your Mirena you can call SHINE SA’s Sexual Healthline on 1300 883 793.
I’m using the Mirena for menopausal hormone therapy, how does this impact me?
If you’re using the Mirena for menopause treatment the IUD should still be changed every five years.
Can I still replace my Mirena sooner?
Yes. You can still replace your Mirena sooner (for example, if you’re using it to improve symptoms of heavy menstrual bleeding) and it will still accessible and subsidised through the pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS) at any point (you don’t need to wait eight years to access a new device).
What do I do if I have questions about the Mirena?
If you have questions about the Mirena you can call SHINE SA’s Sexual Healthline on 1300 883 793.
Want to learn more about intra-uterine devices? Read our information on IUDs.
I’m a health professional, is there anything else I need to know?
The FRSH CEU Statement provides further guidance on extended use: FSRH CEU Statement: Extended use of all 52mg LNG-IUDs for up to eight years for contraception.
The TGA Product Information for the Mirena is available via the TGA: Mirena Information.
