Newer methods of contraception

[Guest guest]

Newer Forms of Birth Control -- Lunelle & Mirena

Two new forms of contraception: Lunelle and Mirena.

Lunelle is the first and only once-a-month injectible birth

control available to women in the United States that has shown to

be at least as safe and as effective as oral contraceptives in

preventing pregnancies. Like oral contraceptives, Lunelle is a

combined hormonal contraceptive and it offers fewer side effects

than Depo-Provera. Women who use Lunelle also experience an earlier

return to fertility (roughly two to three months) with Lunelle than

with Depo-Provera.

Mirena is an intrauterine device (IUD) that contains the same

hormone found in most birth control pills. Women who use Mirena

suffer fewer side effects and have a lighter menstrual period than

with other IUDs.

Mirena

Mirena is a new intrauterine device that is inserted inside the

uterus to prevent pregnancy. This new device has a plastic " T "

shaped frame that contains levonorgesterol (progesterone that is

contained in many birth control pills). The continuous release of

progesterone in the uterine lining causes much less bleeding and

the cramps that are associated with other IUD's.

How Does it Work?

Mirena works the same way as other IUD's to prevent pregnancy.

There are three different ways Mirena can work. It may affect the

release of an egg from the ovary, it may come lighter and last

fewer days. It is common for menstrual periods to stop altogether.

Lunelle

Lunelle is an injection given every four weeks under a

clinician's supervision.

How Does Lunelle Prevent Pregnancy?

Lunelle contains two hormones that are similar to the natural

female hormones estrogen and progesterone. Lunelle works by keeping

eggs from being released from the ovaries, and by making the mucus

from the cervix (the opening into the uterus) thick, so that it is

hard for sperm to get through it.

How Effective is Lunelle?

Lunelle provides highly effective pregnancy protection if a

woman gets the injections on time. For every 100 women who use

Lunelle for a year, there will be less than one pregnancy. Lunelle

prevents pregnancy immediately if it is injected within the first

five days after the menstrual cycle begins.

How is Lunelle Used?

Lunelle is given as an injection once every four weeks. The

first shot must be given within five days after the beginning of a

period, unless women are presently using the Pill. Lunelle starts

working within 24 hours. The medicine slowly wears off over time

and a woman cannot count on being protected against pregnancy after

four weeks from the last shot.

[Guest guest]

Hi,

Received your messages regarding all the birth control possibilities. Can't

begin to explain my gratitude for all the wisdom you have shared. I am sure I

am not the only one who is curious maybe just wanting to be more informed. As a

nurse I am sure you have the most latest, greatest, up to the minute knowledge

on this issue. Thanks