ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
It's more than 99% effective and can be removed anytime.
It doesn't protect against STIs.
What it's used for
- Preventing pregnancy
- Heavy menstrual bleeding (Mirena, Liletta)
- Protecting the uterus during estrogen therapy (off-label)
How to take it
- Placed by a clinician in an office visit; cramping during placement is common.
- Check that you can feel the strings as directed.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Irregular spotting at first
- Lighter or no periods
- Cramping
- Acne or breast tenderness
Call 911Severe belly pain, or a positive pregnancy test (ectopic pregnancy risk)
Call your provider todayFever, pelvic pain, or unusual discharge (possible infection)
Call your provider todayCan't feel the strings or feel the hard plastic
Warnings
- Rarely, it can come out or push through the uterus wall.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Few interactions.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Remove if pregnancy occurs; see your provider right away.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Not applicable: it works continuously. Mark the replacement date.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Levonorgestrel IUD (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.