A new long-acting contraceptive has now become available for Australian women and it is an intrauterine device known as Kyleena. As of 1st March 2020, it has been listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) – the government’s subsidized list of medications – which gives Australian women even more choice.
It is believed to be more effective than the contraceptive pill, and because it is smaller than other intrauterine devices available, insertion can be easier. Like its predecessor, it can also usually be inserted in the privacy of your Doctors office.
Lasting five years, this new Australian contraceptive will cost around $40 or $8 per year, which is a far less expensive option than the contraceptive pill. Kyleena halts menstruation in about 12 percent of women and one in four women have infrequent periods. For women who have difficulty remembering to take the pill (which in Australia is around 40%), it is a fantastic contraceptive alternative.
Having the Kyleena inserted is much like having a Cervical Screening Test (which used to be known as a Pap smear), with your doctor inserting a speculum. This may involve period-type pain during insertion, so it is recommended patients take a painkiller 30 minutes before the procedure. There are also some medications we can use to soften the tissue before insertion which will make it a less uncomfortable procedure. If undertaking the procedure, I normally advise that you have somebody with you so they can drive you home, as it can produce some discomfort for a few hours afterwards.
This long-acting contraceptive does not interfere with fertility after it is removed. However, there may be some increase in the risk of the development of ovarian cysts from the small amount of hormone which is released from the Kyleena coil into the area around the uterus where the ovaries are.
In my opinion, this is a welcome addition to the reliable, inexpensive and acceptable contraception choices currently available for women in Australia.
To find out more information or discuss if this is an option for you, make an appointment to see Dr Terry Sheahan by calling our offices on on (07) 3353 3100.