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Currently, more than 21% of births in Acre are to mothers up to 19 years of age, representing the highest rate of teenage pregnancy in Brazil, according to data from the Ministry of Health. Therefore, as part of the “Adolescence first, pregnancy later” campaign, which seeks to reduce cases of early pregnancy in Acre, health units in Rio Branco began offering the Mirena hormonal IUD for free to adolescents aged 14 to 18.
The IUD (intrauterine device) is a small instrument inserted into the uterus that releases controlled doses of hormones to prevent pregnancy. The Mirena model contains progesterone, which prevents ovulation and reduces the risk of pregnancy. In addition to being a highly effective and long-lasting method — valid for up to eight years — it can also reduce cramps and menstrual flow.
Action has already benefited more than 100 young people and seeks to reduce teenage pregnancy rates/ Photo: Reproduction
According to the Adolescent Health Division, 103 young people have already benefited since the beginning of the project, and the goal is to reach 120 adolescents. To participate, simply look for any health unit in the city and inform your interest. After registration, the referral is made through the G-MUS system, and the responsible team schedules the procedure.
Gynecologist Pedro Gomes explains that IUD insertion is quick and safe, lasting between 5 and 10 minutes, with the use of painkillers to minimize discomfort. Before the procedure, teenagers undergo a medical consultation, exams and a pregnancy test. After placement, monitoring is continuous, with guidance on sexual and reproductive health.
Even though it is an effective method for preventing pregnancy, the IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Therefore, health professionals reinforce the importance of using condoms during sexual intercourse.
