It’s not a recognised medical term but it’s certainly become a ‘new player in the game’ when it comes to contraception.
So, what is MIRENA?
Mirena or Mirena coil is a hormonal device used for long-term birth control. It’s a small, T-shaped plastic device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. Mirena releases a hormone called levonorgestrel, a type of progestin hormone, to prevent pregnancy. It works by thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, thins the uterine lining to prevent implantation (so periods are lighter), and sometimes suppresses ovulation (release of an egg from the ovary).
It is effective for up to 8 years for contraception and is over 99% effective at preventing a pregnancy. It can also be used to treat heavy periods, helps with treatment of conditions such as endometriosis and adenomyosis, and can be used as part of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) around the time of the perimenopause/menopause.
The “Mirena coil crash” refers to a set of physical and emotional symptoms that some people report experiencing after having the Mirena coil removed. These symptoms vary from person to person and can last for weeks or even months. They include:
- Hormonal Imbalance Symptoms such as Irregular or heavy periods, hot flashes or night sweats, fatigue, breast tenderness, acne flare-ups
- Mental & Emotional Symptoms: Anxiety or panic attacks, depression or mood swings, brain fog or difficulty concentrating, irritability
- Physical Symptoms: headaches or migraines, joint or muscle pain, hair loss
Why Does This Happen?
Mirena can suppress the body’s natural production of progesterone while it’s in place. When it’s removed, it may take time for the body’s own hormonal control centres to wake up and rebalance hormone levels. The sudden drop in hormone levels (from removal of Mirena), combined with the body’s slow return to natural progesterone production, may cause temporary hormonal withdrawal symptoms similar to what some experience when stopping birth control pills or during the period just after birth (postpartum).
What Can Help?
Although there is no standard medical treatment for these changes, there are measures that can help:
- Support hormonal balance with a healthy diet, exercise, and stress management
- Supplements (like magnesium, B vitamins, and omega-3s) may help some people
- Adaptogens (Ashwagandha, Maca, Rhodiola) – May help with hormone balance
- Stay hydrated
- Consult a doctor if symptoms are severe or prolonged. In some cases, doctors may recommend low-dose birth control pills or progesterone therapy to ease the transition.
