How safe is the Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System?

1. How safe is the Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System? Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System also is known as LNG – IUS is an intrauterine contraceptive device that is used to prevent pregnancy. After insertion into the uterus, the device releases the hormone Levonorgestrel into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy. Generally, hormonal IUDs like the LNG-IUS work for 3 to 5 years depending on the brand of the device. Like all other hormonal as well as copper intrauterine devices (CU – IUDs), this system also involves the insertion of a small, flexible, T – shaped plastic component with a small cylinder that carries the synthetic hormone into the woman’s uterus. Once the procedure is completed, the cylinder begins to slowly release the Levonorgestrel into the bloodstream and continues to do so for up to 5 years. This hormone behaves identically to other progestin hormones that are used for contraception in oral contraceptive pills, contraceptive patches, and vaginal rings. The Levonorgestrel affects the woman’s reproductive cycle by preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg. Simultaneously, it also thickens the mucosal lining of the cervix and prevents the sperm from swimming up to the eggs. The inner lining of the uterus is also affected and the thickness reduces making implantation of the egg very difficult. As it is with any medical treatment, this contraception method has its pros and cons. Firstly, the advantages of using a Levonorgestrel intrauterine system are: Women who are breastfeeding can also opt for this contraceptive measure after consulting a doctor. It provides long – term pregnancy prevention and is one of the Long Acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC) measure. As the device is inserted into the uterus, it is invisible to the naked eye. Levonorgestrel is effective on women who cannot tolerate estrogen contraceptives This system is highly effective and reduces the risk of endometrial cancer. When it comes to the safety of this system, it is considered to be extremely safe but it can also cause certain side – effects that vary from person to person. Some of these are general symptoms while some of them require special attention and precautions. The general side-effects are: Decreased sexual desire or libido Tenderness or swelling of breasts Severe headaches Nausea Bloating and weight gain Menstrual cramps Hair loss as well as unwanted hair growth on certain body parts

2. Below are the side-effects that must be observed carefully and need special precautions and if any of these manifest, the patient must seek immediate help from the doctor. Speech impediment or difficulty understanding Crushing pain in shoulder or chest Pain during sexual intercourse Abnormal and unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge Swelling of legs, feet, arms or hands Sudden weakening or a leg or an arm It is advisable to immediately consult an OB/GYN if any of the aforementioned symptoms or any other unknown symptom manifests after the insertion of the Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System. Before deciding to insert this intrauterine device, a woman must understand its entire working process, the precautions that need to be taken regarding the intake of medications for any other conditions, and the possible side-effects of LNG – IUS. It is crucial that this IUD is NOT used during pregnancy as it can cause adverse effects.