Is My IUD Still Working? Signs & Lifespan - Mieria

Question
HI...I had my Iud inserted in Nov 03 and its alomost time for a new one to be inserted....How would i know if its not working properly? ive had some early preganacy signs lately and i dont hink its possible but i want to be sure just in case it has stopped working...It says they are good for %yrs on their site but my own doctor has said they are only good for 3-5 years...

Answer
Dear Theresa,

There is really no way to know if it is working properly or not unless you begin to have unusual symptoms or if any hormonal side effects that you have had since the Mirena has been put in begin to disappear, which might give you an indication of that possibility. As long as you can check placement and they are placed correctly, the assumption is that they are effective.

If you are concerned about its effectiveness, my advice would be to go ahead and see your doctor for a new one to be inserted. Obviously your doctor has mentioned the 3-5 year time frame for a reason. When you see him/her for a replacement, ask about it. It may be that he has seen some failures after 3 years so he is cautious and gives the alternate time frame to his patients. Before a replacement is inserted, usually doctors will run a pregnancy test as a precaution - especially if you let them know you are beginning to wonder about the possibility of pregnancy.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda