Mirena Coil and Hormones – All About the Hormonal IUD Mirena®
Claire Russell MSc. BSc. DipNT, AdvRTT, Cl.Med.Hyp., Cl.Hyp., MICIP MNTOI Registered Nutritionist with clinics ONLINE and in Newcastle West, Limerick, Adare, Charleville, Kanturk, Midleton, Youghal, Cork, Dublin, Dungarven in person clinics in our private rooms.
The hormonal IUD – most commonly known as the Mirena® coil – is a small, flexible, T-shaped plastic device inserted into the uterus. It’s classed as a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC), meaning it can remain effective in the body for several years.
Mirena® slowly releases a small, steady amount of progestin, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. Progestins imitate many of progesterone’s natural effects – such as reducing heavy menstrual bleeding -but they are not identical and do not reproduce all of progesterone’s wider benefits for mood, metabolism, or fertility.
[Learn more about Hormone Balance and Nutrition]
How the Mirena Coil Works
The Mirena hormonal IUD prevents pregnancy by:
- Thickening cervical mucus, blocking sperm from reaching the egg.
- Thinning the uterine lining (endometrium), reducing the chance of implantation.
- Acting as a gentle physical barrier within the uterus.
While Mirena® can suppress ovulation in some cycles, this is not its main contraceptive action. Many women continue to ovulate, though anovulatory cycles (no ovulation) are more likely during the first year, when hormone release is highest.
As hormone release declines over time, ovulation often resumes more regularly. When ovulation occurs, the ovaries still produce natural progesterone, which supports mood, sleep and bone health.
[Explore how progesterone supports mood and sleep]
Mirena Coil for Heavy Periods
In Ireland, Mirena® is commonly used not only for contraception but also to treat heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or flooding. The slow release of progestin into the uterus thins the lining, leading to lighter periods—or, for some, no periods at all.
It’s important to note that no bleeding doesn’t always mean no ovulation. With Mirena®, you may still ovulate without a monthly bleed, which is the reverse of what occurs with most hormonal pills.
This effect can be a major relief if you’ve struggled with anaemia, fatigue or low iron due to heavy periods.
[Read about Iron Deficiency and Fatigue]
Possible Side Effects of the Mirena Coil
Some side effects are common within the first few months of insertion:
- Irregular or unpredictable bleeding
- Breast tenderness
- Acne or skin changes
- Bloating or headaches
- Mood changes, anxiety, or increased anxiety, low mood
Each person’s response is unique. Stay aware of how your body and mind feel, and discuss anything persistent with your GP or a women’s health specialist.
[Support for Anxiety and Mood Changes]
If symptoms continue or become difficult, nutrition, counselling, psychotherapy and clinical hypnotherapy can support hormone-related anxiety, low mood, depression, overwhelm, stress, mental health issues, and emotional regulation.
Does the Mirena Coil Balance or Mask Hormones?
Mirena® can be extremely useful for stabilising symptoms, but it often does not address the underlying cause.
Heavy or prolonged bleeding is frequently linked to oestrogen dominance or low progesterone, often influenced by sluggish liver or gut detoxification and chronic stress that disrupts cortisol rhythms.
Because Mirena® doesn’t correct these mechanisms, it may mask imbalance rather than resolve it. Still, for many, symptom control is essential.
Lighter bleeding can give your body time to restore iron, energy and confidence. If you use a hormonal IUD, consider working on nutritional, gut and stress support at the same time to build longer-term balance.
[Gut Health & Digestion], [Stress and Burnout Support]
Mirena Coil and Perimenopause
Many women in their forties ask how to track their cycle—or know when menopause has arrived—while using the Mirena coil during perimenopause.
Menopause is defined as 12 consecutive months without a period, but since Mirena® often reduces or stops bleeding, this can be hard to track. Ovulation may still occur even when periods have stopped.
If you’d like clarity, your GP can arrange blood hormone tests (FSH and oestradiol). These can help confirm menopausal status. In Ireland, such tests may only be subsidised if clinically justified, though private testing is an option.
For some, Mirena® can also serve as endometrial protection while using HRT during menopause. Discuss the best timing and plan with your GP or women’s health practitioner.
[Perimenopause and Menopause Support in Ireland]
Copper IUD vs Mirena Coil
The copper IUD is a non-hormonal alternative. It prevents pregnancy by releasing copper ions toxic to sperm, without affecting ovulation or systemic hormones.
Some women find it increases bleeding or cramping. Copper can also influence your zinc-to-copper ratio, so ensuring adequate zinc intake can help maintain mineral balance.
[Non-Hormonal Contraception Options]
Summary of Mirena Coil and Hormone Health
The Mirena coil is a trusted, convenient contraceptive that can also reduce heavy bleeding and anaemia. Yet, it’s best seen as part of your whole-body hormone health.
Supporting your liver, gut, stress resilience, nutrient status as well as your mental health, emotional health can keep hormones steady, whether you continue using Mirena® or prepare to transition off it.
Stay connected with your GP or practitioner, track your symptoms, and review your progress every few months. Small adjustments and awareness bring steadier energy and peace of mind.
[Book a Hormone Health Consultation Online]
Educational note: This article is for information only and not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your GP or qualified healthcare provider about contraception and hormonal health.
Professional Hormone, Contraception Support and Fertility Support in Ireland
If you’re experiencing hormonal changes, menstrual difficulties, fertility challenges, or mood shifts linked to contraception, perimenopause or the Mirena coil, expert help can guide you back to balance.
Claire Russell MSc. BSc. DipNt MNTOI is a Registered Nutritionist, Clinical Medical Hypnotherapist, and Advanced Rapid Transformational Therapist (RTT®) with over 20 years’ clinical experience across Ireland, the UK and Europe.
Claire offers integrated Nutritionist services incorporating Functional Medicine, Counselling, Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy for hormones, fertility, trauma, addictions, anxiety, depression and burnout, as well as RTT® and Advanced RTT® methods combining neuroscience and behavioural change.
Appointments available ONLINE and in person in our private rooms in Adare, Newcastle West, Limerick, Abbeyfeale, Charleville, Kanturk, Midleton, Youghal, Cork, Dublin and Dungarven in person clinics.
Areas of focus and services:
• Hormonal balance (PMS, PCOS, perimenopause, menopause)
• Fertility for women and men (physical health issues, mental health and emotional support)
• Gut and digestive issues (IBS, SIBO, reflux, diverticulitis, GERD, bloating ..)
• Stress, burnout, anxiety, low mood, depression, post natal depression, sleep issues, insomnia
• Addictions (sugar, food, alcohol, drug addiction, substance addiction, vaping, smoking, gambling, pornography)
• Autoimmune and inflammatory conditions (including coeliac, Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis & much more)
Book a confidential consultation today -ONLINE or in person – to help you restore clarity, calm , happiness and hormonal balance, steadily!
Registered Nutritionist | Clinical Medical Hypnotherapist | Advanced RTT® Practitioner | 20+ years’ clinical experience
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[About Claire Russell], [Contact Claire], [Nutrition & Hormone Services in Limerick]
Frequently Asked Questions – Mirena Coil, Hormones and Perimenopause
1. Does the Mirena coil stop your hormones?
No. The Mirena coil acts mainly within the uterus and does not completely switch off your natural hormones. Many women continue to ovulate and produce oestrogen and progesterone.
2. What are the most common Mirena coil side effects?
Irregular bleeding, breast tenderness, acne, bloating and mild mood changes are common at first. Most settle after a few months. Persistent symptoms can be reviewed with your GP or therapist.
3. Can the Mirena coil cause anxiety or low mood?
Some women experience mood changes, particularly early on. Nutritional and psychological support can help stabilise mood while hormones adjust.
4. How does the Mirena coil affect perimenopause?
It can help control heavy bleeding in perimenopause and may remain in place through menopause. Because it may stop periods, blood tests (FSH and oestradiol) can help confirm menopausal status.
5. What happens when the Mirena coil is removed?
Hormone levels usually return to normal within weeks. Some women notice short-term spotting, anxiety symptoms or mood changes, which typically settle. Nutritional and stress support can ease the transition.
6. Is the copper IUD a good non-hormonal option?
Yes, for women who prefer to avoid hormones. It doesn’t interfere with ovulation but can make periods heavier. Nutritional zinc support may help maintain balance.
7. How long does the Mirena coil last?
In Ireland, Mirena® is licensed for five years of contraception, and up to seven years for heavy bleeding control. Your GP can advise when replacement is due.
Contact Claire Russell MSc. BSc. DipNt MNTOI today to discuss symptoms, Hormonal Issues, Fertility and much more..