We’re fortunate to have various options to offer patients desiring progestin intrauterine devices (IUDs) for contraception. Which IUD is best for each patient? Mirena, Liletta, Skyla, and Kyleena have a few differentiating characteristics, including dose, size, duration, and cost.

Apart from the inserter device, Mirena and Liletta IUDs are nearly identical. Liletta’s federal 340b pricing is $50, thereby making this option more affordable for patients regardless of income and/or insurance coverage. Approximately 19-20% of patients experience amenorrhea with Liletta and Mirena IUDs, respectively.

Compared to Mirena and Liletta, Skyla and Kyleena are smaller in dose, size, and duration. Skyla’s duration of contraceptive effectiveness is three years, and Kyleena’s is five years. Fewer patients experience amenorrhea with Skyla and Kyleena.

*Liletta is currently FDA approved for five years, with plans to study the device for continued effectiveness up to seven years. 

Resources

Contraceptive Pearl: Introducing Liletta, a New Progestin IUD

IUD Fact Sheet

Sources

Nelson AL, Massoudi N. New developments in intrauterine device use: focus on the US. Open Access J Contracept. 2016;7:127-141.

Rowe P, Farley T, Peregoudov A, Piaggio G, Boccard S, et al. Safety and efficacy in parous women of a 52-mg levonorgestrel-medicated intrauterine device: a 7-year randomized comparative study with the TCu380A. Contraception. 2016 June;93(6):498-506.

Wu JP. Pickle S. Extended use of the intrauterine device: a literature review and recommendations for clinical practice. Contraception. 2014 June;89(6)495-503.

Pharma-free

The Reproductive Health Access Project does not accept funding from pharmaceutical companies. We do not promote specific brands of medication or contraception. The information in the Contraceptive Pearls is unbiased, based on science alone.