Mirena IUD: How It Works, Benefits and Insertion Cost
Mirena is a hormonal coil (intrauterine device) that provides highly effective, long term contraception with no daily routine: it is fitted once and works for years. Alongside contraception, gynaecologists also frequently recommend it for heavy periods. In this article we explain how the coil works, who it suits, what fitting involves and how much it costs in Belgrade.
How the hormonal coil works
Inside the uterus, Mirena gradually releases small amounts of the hormone levonorgestrel. This thickens the cervical mucus and thins the lining of the uterus, preventing pregnancy with an effectiveness of over 99 per cent. The hormone acts mainly locally, within the uterus, so the doses reaching the rest of the body are small.
Benefits and possible side effects
- It works for years: no daily pills and no monthly costs
- Periods become lighter and less painful, so it is also used for heavy bleeding
- Fertility returns quickly after removal
- In the first few months irregular spotting is possible while the body adjusts
- As with any contraception, it is not for everyone: the decision is made with your gynaecologist after an examination
What fitting the coil involves
At Miren Medic Polyclinic the coil is fitted by experienced gynaecologists: Prof. Dr Snežana Rakić and Prim. Dr Radojka Cerović Popović. Before fitting, a gynaecological examination with ultrasound is carried out to confirm that the coil is suitable for you. The fitting itself takes a few minutes and is usually done during your period or immediately afterwards. A follow-up ultrasound is performed after the first cycle.
Price of fitting a coil in Belgrade
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Fitting of a coil (IUD) | 20.000 RSD |
| Removal of a coil | 13.000 RSD |
| Gynaecological examination | 6.000 to 12.000 RSD |
| Gynaecological ultrasound | 6.000 to 10.000 RSD |
Frequently asked questions
Does fitting a coil hurt?
Fitting takes a few minutes and for most women it is uncomfortable but bearable, similar to stronger menstrual cramps that pass quickly. It is done during a gynaecological examination, and the doctor explains each step in advance.
How long does the Mirena coil work for?
A hormonal coil provides protection for several years, most often 5 or more, depending on the manufacturer's recommendation and your doctor's assessment. Once that period has elapsed, the coil is simply removed or replaced with a new one.
How does Mirena affect periods?
In most women, periods become considerably lighter and less painful over time, and in some women they stop altogether, which is an expected effect of the hormonal coil and is not harmful.
Can I conceive after the coil is removed?
Yes. Fertility returns quickly after the coil is removed, most often in the very next cycle, which makes the coil suitable for women planning a pregnancy later on.
Read more about our examinations and services on the gynaecology page, and about prevention in our article on the Pap test.
