Kyleena is one of three Intrauterine devices (IUDs) available in Canada. This hormonal IUD is a long-term birth control solution for those looking for a maintenance-free contraception option.
How does Kyleena Work?
Similar to Mirena, Kyleena IUD is a soft T-shaped plastic device that is placed into the uterus by a medical professional. The IUD releases the hormone progestin to prevent pregnancy. Once inserted, Kyleena inhibits reproduction in the following ways:
- Thickens the mucus in the uterus, which prevents sperm from entering the cervix and fertilizing an egg.
- Thins the lining of the uterus, making it more difficult for a fertilized egg to implant inside of the uterus.
Why Kyleena?
Kyleena can prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years. Once inserted, Kyleena is a maintenance-free, long term contraceptive solution. Since Kyleena doesn’t require regular maintenance, there is no need for monitoring or frequent doctor’s visits after insertion.
How do I Get Kyleena?
Kyleena requires a prescription as well as an appointment with a medical professional for insertion.
You should also discuss your desire to get Kyleena with your medical professional to ensure this IUD is the ideal choice for you. An assessment of your medical history and individual needs will help determine if Kyleena is right for you.
Get IUDs, Birth Control Patch, Birth Control Pills or other contraceptives delivered right to your doorstep – Click here
What are the Benefits of Kyleena?
Kyleena is a near fail-proof solution for those looking for an IUD. Its 98.5% success rate makes it an excellent choice for those who want a worry-free birth control option.
- Low maintenance: As is the case with many IUDs, aside from a follow-up visit to your healthcare provider 4-6 weeks after insertion to ensure everything is in place, Kyleena does not require any maintenance or upkeep. Two small strings attached to the device enable you to check its positioning and ensure it is in the correct place. Checking these strings every month after your menstrual period is recommended.
- Small in size: Kyleena is the smallest 5-year IUD available. Kyleena is recommended for anyone, whether or not they have had children. This is contrary to the Mirena, which is recommended for women who have had at least one child.
- No prep needed: Contraception options like the birth control pill, condoms or diaphragms, require an action to be taken for its benefits to be realized.
For example, birth control pills must be taken daily to prevent pregnancy. Condoms must be available and worn before intercourse to prevent pregnancy. A diaphragm needs to be onhand and inserted prior to sex to avoid pregnancy. All of these concerns are erased with Kyleena, as it eliminates the need to prepare for sex beforehand.
A trial conducted by Kyleena found that 71% of women who wanted to get pregnant after the removal of their IUD were able to do so within 12 months.
This is encouraging news for those who desire a long-term birth control option while still maintaining the ability to have a child in the future. (source: Huffington Post)
What are the Disadvantages of Kyleena?
- The progestin that is released when Kyleena is in place can cause some undesirable side effects, including the following: headaches, skin issues (acne), unpleasant/painful periods
- Those in a monogamous relationship can rely solely on Kyleena. While this IUD can protect against pregnancy, it cannot protect against sexually transmitted diseases. If you have Kyleena but are not in a committed relationship, for your protection, you would be best to use a condom.
- The process of getting Kyleena inserted may be a painful and uncomfortable procedure for some people. This fear and apprehension may cause some individuals to avoid getting an IUD altogether.
- If you do go ahead with the insertion, your medical professional may suggest that you take the rest of the day off from any planned activities (i.e. work) to relax. Missing an entire day of work for an IUD procedure may be a disadvantage for some.
- In some rare instances, the uterus can get punctured when Kyleena is being inserted. If you are concerned about this, be sure to speak to the medical professional that will put your IUD in place.
- Additionally, expulsion of Kyleena (IUD comes out either partially or entirely on its own) has been reported in some rare instances. If this does happen, contact your medical professional to advise, as the IUD must be removed.
If you’re thinking about getting an IUD and have not yet had children, Kyleena may be the IUD for you. Speak to your doctor or medical professional to see if Kyleena is the best IUD for your unique needs.
Learn more about the alternatives to Kyleena IUD: