Inevitable Showdown: Skyla vs. Mirena Examined Side-by-Side
In the realm of contraception, two popular choices among women are the Skyla and Mirena hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs). Both are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, with Skyla lasting up to 3 years and Mirena up to 8 years.
Effectiveness and Duration
Mirena, with its higher dose of levonorgestrel and larger size, offers a longer period of effectiveness. Skyla, on the other hand, is designed for those who have not been pregnant or have a smaller uterus, with a lower hormone dose and a shorter lifespan.
- Mirena's pregnancy rate is less than or equal to 0.2% after 12 months and roughly 0.7% over 5 years, giving it a 99.3% success rate.
- Skyla's pregnancy rate over 3 years is 0.9%, giving it a 99.1% success rate.
Hormone Dose and Size
Mirena contains 52 mg of levonorgestrel and releases 20 mcg per day, while Skyla contains 13.5 mg and releases 14 mcg per day. As the years pass, the dosage of Skyla reduces to approximately 4 mcg per day, while Mirena's dosage lowers to around 10 mcg daily after 5 years and 9 mcg per day after 6 years.
Potential Side Effects
Both IUDs can cause changes in bleeding patterns, with periods lightening, reducing cramping, or stopping completely, which is considered safe. However, some side effects are more common with Mirena, such as weight gain (9% of users over 5 years reported weight gain, though causality is unclear) and the occurrence of ovarian cysts (14% of Skyla users and 12% of Mirena users).
Removal Process
Removal of both IUDs is straightforward and quick, involving gentle traction on the IUD strings. Fertility typically returns rapidly after removal.
Cost and Availability
The cost of an IUD can vary, ranging from $0-1,300, but many health insurance plans, some government programs, and Medicaid may cover the cost or a portion. IUDs can be obtained from local Planned Parenthood health centers or by speaking with a nurse or doctor.
Insertion and Use During Breastfeeding
Both Skyla and Mirena can be used during breastfeeding if the woman has given birth more than 6 weeks ago. There appear to be no adverse effects in breastfed infants.
Cautions and Precautions
Before choosing an IUD, it's essential to consider potential drug interactions. Certain drugs and herbal products may decrease the concentration of the progestin levonorgestrel hormone, including barbiturates, bosentan, efavirenz, carbamazepine, griseofulvin, felbamate, nevirapine, phenytoin, oxcarbazepine, rifampin, rifabutin, topiramate, St. John's wort, and any drug or food product that inhibits or induces the metabolism of levonorgestrel.
It's also crucial to note that for Mirena IUD insertion, the uterus should measure 6-10 centimeters. Inserting the Mirena into a uterus that measures less than 6 cm may increase the chance of expulsion, bleeding, pain, perforation, pregnancy.
In summary, both Skyla and Mirena are effective hormonal IUDs, each with its unique advantages. Mirena's longer duration and higher hormone dose make it suitable for those seeking a longer-term solution, while Skyla's smaller size and lower hormone dose may be more appropriate for younger patients or those who have not given birth. It's essential to discuss potential side effects, drug interactions, and personal circumstances with a healthcare provider before making a decision.
- To ensure the best choice for women's health and health-and-wellness, it is crucial to consider a comprehensive plan that includes discussions about potential side effects, drug interactions, and personal circumstances with healthcare providers.
- In the field of science and contraception, health-and-wellness products such as the Skyla and Mirena hormonal intrauterine devices are effectively used for preventing pregnancy and are available for women seeking long-term solutions, with Mirena offering a duration up to 8 years and Skyla lasting up to 3 years.
