What is a Mirena IUS?
IUS (intrauterine system) or hormonal coil – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Many of our patients have these and it is important you are aware that are changes in the license for the Mirena IUS, which might mean that you can leave your coil in place for longer than you were initially advised at the time of insertion. When you first had the coil put in, the doctor should have given you a note explaining the type of coil and when to have it removed or replaced.
In 2024, the guidance changed for Mirena and the license for this has changed, if you are using it as contraception or as a component of HRT.
Mirena was previously licensed for 5 years as a contraception and for 4 years as HRT.
The new guidance is as follows;
The Mirena® IUD has now been licensed for 8 years for contraception if you are under 45.
The United Kingdom Medicines Health Regulatory Authority (MHRA) has approved an extension to the Mirena licence from 5 years to 8 years for contraception. This advice is based on data which shows a low risk of pregnancy, when compared to 5 years of use.
Therefore, if you are using a Mirena® IUD for contraception alone, and you had it fitted under the age of 45 years, you can now use the device for up to 8 years before it needs removing or replacing.
If you had it fitted at age 45 years or over, you can use the device for contraception until the age of 55 years.
If you are using the Mirena as part of HRT only then it can now be used for up to 5 years before it needs removing or replacing.
Please see below for answers to some frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
I have a different hormonal IUD; can I use it for 8 years? – This extended licence only currently relates specifically to the Mirena® IUD.
– You will have been given a leaflet/card with the name of your device after the fitting. Alternatively, you can confirm this with the clinic/service that fitted your device, if you are unsure.
I have the Levosert® or Benilexa® IUD; can I use it for 8 years? – No. Currently, these IUDs can be used for up to 6- years.
I have the 5-year Kyleena® hormonal IUD; can I use it for 8 years? – No. The Kyleena® must still only be used for up to 5 years.
I have the 3-year Jaydess® hormonal IUD; can I use it for 8 years? – No. The Jaydess® must still only be used for up to 3 years.
I had my Mirena® IUD fitted when I was 45 years or over; do I have to remove it after 8 years? – No. The Mirena® IUD can be used until menopause or up to age 55 years when fitted at 45 years of age or over.
I am using my Mirena® IUD as part of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), can I keep it for 8 years? – No. The Mirena® IUD should only be used for up to 5 years when fitted as part of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
I am using my Mirena® IUD to manage heavy periods; when should I change it? – If the Mirena® IUD was inserted for gynaecological reasons alone (e.g., heavy periods), in some cases, it may be possible to use the device for longer than the original licence, if it is still managing these symptoms. It is best to discuss this further with your doctor or nurse.
If you have any further questions about this, please contact your GP using our online form and we can advise further