Mirena IUD & Diving

[H2OPrincess]

I am considering getting the Mirena IUD (or IUS) and I am curious if anyone has it or has heard of a diver who has it. I am wondering there is an increased risk of expulsion due to the pressure we experience at depth. I wouldn't think so - but you never know! Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[DocVikingo]

Here's what DAN says:

"IUDs: Intrauterine contraceptive devices pose no hazard for the female diver. Menstrual flow is increased in amount and duration of flow. This can be a great inconvenience if a woman is diving in a remote locale or on a boat with no sanitary facilities or privacy."

This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual, and should not be construed as such.

Best regards.

DocVikingo

 

[Nessie]

Hi,
I have the Mirena, too.
I talked to DAN about it and they told me something similar to what DocVikingo wrote but added that there might be a slightly higher risk to get an infection because the microorganisms in the water can more easily penetrate the uterus when having an IUD.
But it would be the same risk whether you dive or swim and I do not think anybody would stop going for a swim because of it.
I have it for 2 1/2 years now and never had any diving related problems (or other problems). My period stopped completely.
I can highly recommend it.

 

[SubMariner]

talked to DAN about it and they told me something similar to what DocVikingo wrote but added that there might be a slightly higher risk to get an infection because the microorganisms in the water can more easily penetrate the uterus when having an IUD.

I find this hard to believe. Just how is this supposed to happen?

Frankly if this were the case, then even women who wore a tampon would also potentially be at risk. (Yes, technically in "different" areas, but still adjacent )

Hey Doc!!!???

~SubMariner~

 

[Nessie]

Hi Submariner,
there is one big difference between a tampon and an IUD. The tampon is only in the vagina (sorry, only know the Latin words) whereas the IUD is in the uterus. At the lower end of the IUD are (3 I think) thin plastic ropes which go through the lower part of the uterus (cervix) into the vagina (just a little bit, doesn´t disturb the guys ) and along these it is easier for the bacterias to move from the vagina into the uterus. You always have a higher risk (whether diving/swimming or not) to get an uterus infection when having an IUD (and as said the risk becomes a bit more high when in water regularly).
Hope, that´s understandable

 

[hydrophilicity]

I have one - I think any anticipation of problems with diving is WAY overreacting! I'm sure if it caused you problems, diving would not be the factor.

BTW - insertion hurts like HELL!