Skyla – A Long-Acting, Hormonal Intrauterine Device (IUD)
Skyla is a small, T-shaped hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) that releases levonorgestrel, a form of progestin, directly into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Designed for women who want long-term, reversible birth control, Skyla provides effective contraception for up to 3 years. It is especially suitable for women who haven’t had children.
How Skyla Works
Skyla contains 13.5 mg of levonorgestrel, which is released at a controlled rate of approximately 14 mcg per day initially, and gradually decreases over time. This hormone thickens the cervical mucus, inhibits sperm movement, and thins the endometrial lining, making it difficult for sperm to reach or fertilize an egg.
Key Benefits of Skyla
- Long-term protection: Offers up to 3 years of contraception.
- Highly effective: More than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
- Low hormone dosage: Delivers hormone locally in the uterus.
- Convenience: No daily maintenance required after insertion.
- Reversible: Fertility typically returns quickly after removal.
Who Can Use Skyla?
Skyla is often recommended for:
- Women looking for non-daily birth control
- Women who have never been pregnant
- Women seeking hormone-based contraception with fewer systemic effects
Insertion and Removal
Skyla must be inserted and removed by a qualified healthcare provider. Insertion takes only a few minutes and can cause mild discomfort, cramping, or spotting. Most side effects resolve within a few weeks.
Possible Side Effects
- Irregular bleeding or spotting (especially during the first 3–6 months)
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Headache or breast tenderness
- Rare: Expulsion, perforation, or pelvic infection
When to Avoid Skyla
Skyla is not suitable for women who:
- Are or may be pregnant
- Have uterine abnormalities
- Have active pelvic infections or unexplained vaginal bleeding
- Have liver disease or hormone-sensitive cancers
Comparison with Other IUDs
| Feature | Skyla | Mirena | Kyleena |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | Up to 3 years | Up to 8 years | Up to 5 years |
| Hormone dosage | 13.5 mg LNG | 52 mg LNG | 19.5 mg LNG |
| Size | Smallest among the three | Larger than Skyla | Slightly larger than Skyla |
| Suitable for nulliparous women | Yes | Yes (with caution) | Yes |
Conclusion
Skyla is a reliable, long-acting birth control option that offers peace of mind with minimal maintenance. Its smaller size and lower hormone dose make it ideal for women who want a discreet and effective form of contraception, especially those who haven’t had children.
Sources / Scientific References
- FDA. Skyla (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) Prescribing Information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov
- Bayer Pharmaceuticals. Skyla Product Website. https://www.skyla-us.com
- ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 186: Long-Acting Reversible Contraception: Implants and Intrauterine Devices. Obstet Gynecol. 2017;130(5):e251–e269.
- Winner B, Peipert JF, Zhao Q, et al. Effectiveness of long-acting reversible contraception. N Engl J Med. 2012;366(21):1998–2007.