A modern contraception for women in the Geelong region

In Australia, two thirds of all women aged between 18 and 49 use one of the various methods of contraception.

There are many different kinds of short acting, long term reversible and permanent contraception options and with so many options it can be difficult to decide which one would work best for your lifestyle. Many of the doctors have a special interest in contraception. Dr Alice Crowley and Dr Deepa Venugopal are also able to insert and remove long acting contraceptive devices.

Please make an appointment with Dr Alice Crowley or Dr Deepa Venugopal to discuss suitability, consent and address any questions you might have in relation to this procedure.  An initial consultation with the GP is required before booking an appointment for a Mirena insertion.

Please speak with reception for details on who provides the service you need.

The Mirena IUD

You may have heard your friends or family mention this product but to save you from the awkward conversations, we have provided answers to some of the most common questions relating to the Mirena contraception

What is a Mirena?

A Mirena is an intrauterine contraceptive that delivers small amounts of the hormone levonorgestrel. The Mirena is a small flexible plastic device that is placed inside the uterus, by a qualified healthcare provider.

What are the benefits of Mirena Contraception?

• Mirena IUD is one of the most effective reversible birth controls available, studies showing it to be over 99% effective.
• A single Mirena prevents pregnancy, for up to 7 years.
• The Mirena has other benefits other than contraception – and it is used in some women to help reduce heavy periods.

Is there a certain time when should a Mirena be placed?

A Mirena is recommended to be placed within 7 days of the beginning of your period, but it can be placed at any time during your cycle if advised or approved by your GP.

Do I have to undergo a procedure to get a Mirena? What is involved?

There is a small procedure for placement of a Mirena, that generally only takes a short period of time. Your doctor will:

• Apply an antiseptic solution to your vagina and cervix.
• Insert a tube containing the Mirena into your vagina and then your uterus.
• Confirm correct placement of Mirena.
• Withdraw inserter tube, leaving the Mirena in the uterus.
• Ensure that the threads connected to the Mirena in the uterus properly extend through the cervix (which helps the removal of Mirena).
• Trim the threads to the appropriate length, to minimise future interference.

Is there anything you need to do once the Mirena has been placed?

Once the initial placement has been completed you must make a follow-up appointment with your doctor, approximately 4 to 12 weeks afterwards. This visit is a standard procedure to ensure everything is continuing smoothly.

At the end of 5-7 years with a Mirena, you must either remove or replace the device.  NOTE: Mirena can be removed at any time prior by your health care provider if you are considering pregnancy or don’t need the device any longer.

To book an appointment, please contact the reception team on (03) 5223 9999.