From the Research
Kyleena IUD releases 17.5 micrograms of levonorgestrel (LNG) per day initially after insertion, with the release rate decreasing over time to approximately 9.8 micrograms per day after one year and 7.4 micrograms per day after five years. The device contains 19.5mg LNG and is licensed for contraception for up to 5 years 1. This gradual decrease in hormone release is intentionally designed to provide effective contraception while minimizing systemic hormone exposure compared to other hormonal contraceptive methods.
Key Points
- The IUD works primarily by thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg, thinning the uterine lining, and in some cases inhibiting ovulation.
- Despite the decreasing release rate over time, Kyleena maintains its high contraceptive efficacy throughout its approved duration of use.
- The contraceptive failure rate is low with Kyleena IUD, with a significantly lower risk of pregnancy, including ectopic pregnancy, compared to copper IUDs 2.
- Kyleena IUD use is associated with a decreased risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer, without increased risk of breast cancer 3.
LNG Release Rate
- Initially: 17.5 micrograms per day
- After 1 year: approximately 9.8 micrograms per day
- After 5 years: approximately 7.4 micrograms per day It is essential to note that while the release rate decreases over time, the contraceptive efficacy of Kyleena IUD remains high throughout its approved duration of use.