Dr. Stephan Moll writes… Skyla® is a new IUD (intrauterine device) contraceptive, approved in February 2013 by the FDA. Skyla® is like a small version of the Mirena® IUD. It has the following features:
- It is a small, flexible plastic T-shaped device, measuring 28 x 30 mm (Mirena®: 32 x 32 mm);
- It contains 13.5 mg of the progestin levonorgestrel (Mirena®: 52 mg); it releases the progestin at an average rate of ca. 6 mcg/ day over three years (Mirena®: ca. 20 mcg per day, progressively decreasing to half that value after five years).
- It is good for 3 years (Mirena®: 5 years).
- Given its small size, it is particularly suitable for nulliparous women.
Given that that progestin-releasing IUDs do not increase the risk for venous thromboembolism [ref 1], they are a particularly attractive option in women with a history of thrombosis (DVT, PE, etc) or thombophilia (hypercoagulable states). Thus, the Skyla® IUD seems like a very good choice as well. Thrombosis is not listed as a possible adverse outcome associated with Skyla® use.
Further resources
- Commercial Skyla® website: here
- Full Skyla® prescribing information: here
- Clot Connect discussion of progestin-contraceptives: here
Reference
- van Hylckama-Vlieg A et al. The risk of deep vein thrombosis associated with injectable depot-medtoxyprogesterone acetate contraceptives or a levonorgestrel intrauterine device. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2010(Nov);30:2297-2230.
Disclosure: I have no conflict of interest.
Last updated: June 3rd, 2013
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