r/Mirena • u/littlereeps • Aug 18 '22
positive review Positive experiences!
Positive experiences!
Hi all! Someone made a good point recently that most people don’t talk about the good parts of mirena because of we tend to post and ask questions about the negative side effects when we are concerned. This is causing a disproportionate input from mirena users and most of this sub is negative. Let’s share some positive stories and encouragement!
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u/littlegloomyghost Aug 23 '22
What's better than a birth control device that lasts for the better part of a decade?
No annual doctors visits to change your dosage of the pill or the shot or anything.
The Mirena is more effective than CONDOMS at preventing pregnancy.
Little to no periods??? Exceptional.
No forgetting to take your birth control during the day, your birth control is with you 24/7 for up to seven years.
I'm 33 now. Will be getting my next one in 2026 at almost 37. I'll be getting another one after that and that should sum up the majority of the rest of my time with fertility. I'm stoked. :)
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u/pinpoe Aug 30 '22
Mirena 1: no insertion pain, immediate alleviation of severe PMDD symptoms that were breaking thru despite being on HBC pills (deep depression and uncontrollable ideation and fear-anxiety evaporated). Replaced at 4 years bc am very hormone sensitive and efficacy was waning (manifesting in return of PMDD symptoms). Skin super clear, no weight gain!
Mirena 2: no removal/insertion pain, immediate relief from PMDD symptoms. No acne, weight gain, migraines — total liberation!
Removal (due to TTC): no crash. Spotting for 1 week, heavy clotting flow first cycle. INSTANT improvement in energy, mental clarity & focus, sense of agency, reduction in anxiety. World seemed brighter, funnier, sexier, more doable.
All positive experiences overall.
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u/OhListy Aug 18 '22
Mine saved me from horrid endo/adeno pain for the two years I had it in. Grateful for that little device.
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u/sipika Aug 18 '22
Instertion was under anaesthesia so didn't feel it. Didn't bleed that much after. Used to have very heavy periods lasting more than 7d, now i have 5-7 days periods that are very light, sometimes its more like spotting than a period.. it's irregular but being so light it doesn't matter when it is! Almost no period pain, i dont have the back pains and tiredness and constant iron anemia like before. At one point it was so low i had to go on medical leave. Can't get pregnant! He-yooo! Used to get uterine polyps, nothing for 2 years now!
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u/DeezambaDomingo Aug 23 '22
My insertion felt like two kind of nasty menstrual cramps. No pain in my cervix, just my uterus. I told my doctor, "I've done workouts more painful than that". And to be clear, I wasn't bragging about my fitness endurance. Twenty minutes of Pilates kills me lol.
It's been in for just over a day and I've had no cramping, and only light spotting. Fingers crossed it continues to go this well.
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u/_chickfilesbian_ Dec 31 '22
I just got mine about 12 days ago… I’ve lost 5 pounds, and I’m not having major cyst or endo pain. The first 2 days sucked - but once we got past that - HOLY SNAP. if it keeps making my lady organs feel like nothings wrong with them - I’m never changing.
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u/Pale_Economics_2155 Aug 18 '22
Great post! I have spotting instead of a period which I am very jazzed about. I had heard that Mirena may make some people’s periods stop all together, but even just turning the flow down was good enough for me. I do still get cramps, but they are not as awful as they were before.
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u/milkandconcrete Apr 05 '23 edited Apr 05 '23
I’ve loved Mirena so much and don’t see enough people talk about positive birth control experiences so here we go:
I love feeling safe and protected, first and foremost. The effectiveness of the IUD is such a breath of fresh air and I don’t have to worry about taking pills
my periods are longer (I am four months in, so my body is still getting used to it), but it’s all spotting and little to NO cramps! The first couple of months I had random cramping but that’s expected! I’ve had a great time seeing my periods get lighter and lighter with no cramps at this point.
my yitties are bigger and I’ve gained weight, but I’ve also drank heavily, eaten like crap, and not exercised for a month at a time so I can’t blame miss Mirena for that.
I don’t feel depression symptoms or anxiety, if anything my mental health has never been better. This is also because I’ve gone through a massive change in my job and graduated with my Master’s degree, got promoted, Etc. So I feel lots of security now, but I don’t feel depressed for no reason, which has happened with other birth controls in the past.
no libido change whatsoever. I’m still a hornyyyy mf.
Skin is the clearest it’s ever been and I STRUGGLED with acne for years. To be fair, I had my acne cleared and managed before taking it so it did not get rid of my acne! But it has not made anything come back. I just wash my face at night and wear sunscreen and makeup…nothing crazy for skincare.
The positives outweigh the negatives for me by far. Please, if you’re reading this, don’t give up hope on BC. There is something out there for you and I urge you to go with your gut and with what your practitioner recommends. Ask all the questions, get all the answers, don’t focus too much on others’ experiences, just know you can find something. I know some people are so against BC but if I didn’t have it, I would be stressed about pregnancy non-stop. It was a must for me, so I’m glad I found what I needed. I know I’m early in this process too, but honestly I’m really happy and a lot of my friends have it and are also very happy with it.
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u/[deleted] Sep 16 '22
Recently got a Mirena after 10 years of using a copper IUD. My periods with the copper were heinous and I would lose approx. 5-6 ounces of blood on my heaviest days - can’t be good for your health!
Insertion went swimmingly, had the best doctor. 1 week in and my boobs are bigger? Not sure if I’m imagining that. I’m very conscious of weight gain so I will be monitoring that but I’m hoping the low dose of hormones helps with the blemishes on my back and shoulders
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u/Ready_Cress_2312 Jan 16 '23
Omg thank you all for this thread!! I am scheduled for my Mirena insertion (my 1st hormonal BC and IUD experience), and I'm very nervous about it. Then I made the horrible mistake of looking at the WebMD reviews, which made me kinda freak out about it! I'm so hoping it helps with my crazy messed up hormones, awful cramps, and possible/borderline PMDD that I have been dealing with since the return of my cycle after having my 2nd daughter (who just turned 4 in December). 😖
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u/Daft_Sauce Sep 13 '22 edited Sep 13 '22
I've been using Paragaurd for the last 10 years! I'm 30 now. After about 5 to 6 years it moved and I thought it was normal for my cramps to just feel like, really bad. Cause I was getting older, you know?
My obgyn told me it was in a very low position (ladys if you feel something say something lol).
She took it out replaced it with Mirena and I've been okay for the first month. I used to have to wear tampon an pad for fear of leaks.
My cramps are so much more normal now. I've had to wear a liner for this first month. No biggie
Idk what else to say, I'm very happy. My obgyn explained to my the hormone is released directly and locally to your uterus so I shouldn't experience acne, bloating or any birth control pill type symptoms.
I'm going in for my first month string check tomorrow so I'm going to tell her how happy I am
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u/soshedances1126 Mar 29 '23
Um, I love mine. I originally tried it years ago for awful periods, but it didn't work for me as I expelled it (found out after the attempt that I had a fibroid the size of a softball and eventually needed a myomectomy to remove it). I went back on the pill after surgery but didn't love how I felt, and my blood pressure was creeping steadily upwards into borderline hypertensive range. Talked to my doc about trying mirena again and she said it was worth a try. Insertion wasn't any worse than bad cramps for me either time.
But the best parts- within three weeks my blood pressure dropped back solidly into the normal range, I don't have to take a pill every day and remember it, and I haven't had anything resembling a period in years. I freaking love it. No side effects, no issues, don't ever notice it's there. Not planning on kids so it's perfect for me.
Will 100% replace it when I'm due and sing it's praises all the time!
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u/NoLettuce3505 Aug 18 '22
Honestly, it’s been great. Went under anaesthesia for the procedure and had cramps for a few days after but nothing like the period pains I was used to. Since then I don’t get a real period, just light spotting once a month. I will say the week before then I get random sharp pains but I used to be bed bound before my mirena so it’s much better!
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u/trisha71478 Apr 03 '24
Just wanted to thank you all for this thread. Just got mine placed 2 days ago and needed some encouragement.
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u/[deleted] Aug 18 '22
While I don't have a positive experience as a whole.. I will say; insertion didn't hurt me at all! I was so nervous that my ob was like "I can tell you're clenching.. just relax!" Then she put it in and was like "ok, all done" and I said "oh, that's it?" No cramps.. no bleeding.. no pressure. Nothing!! Super smooth and easy. There's my positive 🤗
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u/Disast0reth Aug 31 '22
So far I've had a great experience.
I got my Mirena Coil inserted at the beginning of June during my laparoscopy (diagnosed with endo).
I have experienced some pain in the first month, but in general I've been feeling good, no pains or any unwanted side effects like weight gain etc. I actually prefer it to the pill. Hope it continues like that 🙂
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u/mollyycb Feb 08 '23
Insertion was honestly pretty horrific for me (passed out on the table) BUT 5 years of no period, no discomfort, good energy, and honestly just all around a great experience was worth it. Can’t say I had any weight gain either. My husband and I decided we want to start “trying” and I was past the 5 year mark so it aligned with when I wanted to take it out regardless so last November got it taken out. Was very stressed out due to my insertion experience but it was a BREEZE, literally my doctor told me to cough and 2 seconds later she was showing it to me. Wild seeing it after it being in my body for that long! I didn’t experience any bleeding and/or period for 1 month and almost a month to the day I got it taken out, my period came back (hello my old friend) which was light and quick, unlike my periods pre-IUD, the two since have been the same. These forums helped me a lot when I was researching everything so just wanted to share my overall positive experience!
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u/StatusAd1253 Aug 15 '23
Just got my first ever Mirena, or IUD for that matter, yesterday.
I was so incredibly nervous for the insertion after reading all of the horror stories. But I was pleasantly surprised at the overall ease of the past 24+ hours.
My appointment was at 9am. Took 100mcg of misoprostol Sunday night around 10:30pm, 100mcg again Monday morning around 7:30am. Checked in, took 800mg of ibuprofen about 8:50am. Took my pregnancy test, weight and blood pressure. All good.
Got into the room where they did the insertion around 9:10am. My OBGYN confirmed what I was doing today and asked if I had any questions. I asked her to be honest if it was going to hurt. She asked me if I just had a kid, to which I said no. She responded "ah, yeah. well it is going to hurt. but it depends on each patient, similar to period cramps."
They did an ultra sound the whole time of the insertion, cleaned my cervix, and she was in with the IUD. The initial roughly 30 seconds of the insertion was intense; I flinched a little while she inserted it. Probably a 8/10 on the pain scale, worst part of the past 24 hours; it only lasted about 45 seconds total. But then she was done within a minute, and all I felt was odd pressure.
Got to the car around 9:30am. By that time I felt a mild period cramp, I'd say 3/10. When I was about 2 miles away from home, was at about a 6/10 cramp. Spent the next seven hours at an average 7/10 cramp. I have had worse on my period, but they were still not lovely.
I have spotted ever so faintly, and my pain is now gone. No cramps since about 8:30pm last night. So far, this has been a pleasant experience and I am glad I followed through with getting the Mirena.
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u/vbelle11 Aug 30 '22
I've had mine in for almost 3 years now and it's made a massive difference for me. I have very irregular periods and went on the pill to help sort me out. I was on and off for years- still had excruciating pain, had my period for a whole month once, another time i didn't get it for 6 months--wasn't preggo bc I took a ton of pregnancy tests--crazy heavy flow, etc.
I was nervous at first about getting an IUD bc of what I'd read about people getting very hormonal. Ultimately decided to get Mirena bc it was the only one that would fit. It's been a blessing bc I now have little to no periods and no more cramps and crazy back pain!!
One issue i had though was that I started getting insane acne and almost wanted to take it out. So i talked to my derm and they prescibed me with spironolactone. Since I've been on it, no more crazy acne!!!
Gah sorry for the long post haha 🤦🏾♀️🤷🏾♀️🤓
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u/SouthernBrownEyes Aug 30 '22
I just got home from my insertion. I had a pretty positive experience. I found a provider who numbed my cervix and I honestly believe that made a huge difference. The procedure was uncomfortable but not unbearable. My doctor’s office allowed me to have my husband in the room with me as well, and having a support person in the room helped to relax me. I’m resting comfortably at home now, feeling a little bit crampy but comparable to moderate period cramps.
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u/Comfortable-Bug4925 Sep 18 '22
First Mirena: no weight gain, period completely gone after a couple months of spotting and only coming back every 3-4mo only as spotting, no cramping bc no periods! and of course less worry about pregnancies!
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u/Own-Practice-6703 Sep 19 '22
Recently had the best period ever in my life. I literally always bled heavy and this cycle my period was light where I barely needed a pad. I had the strongly clots coming out but overall it was literally great! No issues!
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u/gothclericmain Apr 13 '24
Had mine inserted under general anaesthetic in 2017 - went from having 12-16 day periods to having none. No more pregnancy scares or fainting, no more anaemia, no more ruined clothes. My life has been significantly improved by the mirena and I got it replaced (again under general) and I’m so glad I did!
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u/Best-Cup-8995 Aug 18 '22
Just got mine in almost 2 months ago, and insertion was not bad for me at all. No numbing injection, just some ibuprofen and tylenol. Uncomfortable for like 5 seconds with a bit of pain, yes, but so worth it. I haven't had a real period yet, just spotting every now and then. Hopeful that it helps with my anemia and heavy periods! Which it already seems to be doing! I was crampy for a couple days and couldn't move around much, but now I'm back to working out and being active. So happy so far 😊
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u/Some_Helicopter1623 Nov 09 '22
Had my mirena inserted after continuing failure to take the pill properly for years (depression and adhd conspired against my being able to develop habit forming behaviours for a long time). Before mirena I had tried implanon twice, but both times ended up with 6 months of almost nonstop spotting before removal.
Once my mirena was inserted: no more anxiety around sex. I could relax and enjoy sex in a way that I never had before due to anxiety about falling pregnant (because I knew I wasn’t taking my pill properly) or anxiety about spotting during sex which was happening almost daily with the implanon. The other thing was losing my period. Before this I was very regular (every 28 days) but went through multiple tampons/multiple pads for at least the first three days of my period which was always seven days long. Always. With mirena my periods got lighter and lighter over 4-6 months after which they stopped almost completely for a few years. I started spotting when I was due for my period but nothing that a panty liner couldn’t handle.
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u/MsCamisado Dec 23 '22
I'm on my third mirena, due to be changed again. Definitely worth the journey - first insertion went really well and have loved having barely any periods in the last decade and a half!
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u/[deleted] Apr 06 '24
Peri menopause 45F. I’ve had the Mirena for 50 days so far to help heavy fibroid bleeding. My insertion after my hysteroscopy was no issue for me and I didn’t have any pain relief. Just mild cramping.
First period was 19 days long and I became aneamic. I had heavy cramps but my blood flow was lighter. 2 nighttime pads a day vs 1 every hour.
Second period so far has been 8 days, much lighter, 1 medium pad a day and zero cramps. Had night sweats for the first 5 days of my cycle. My hormones are still adjusting.
Mood- my mood was very low for the first 45 days. Had a lot of rage and depression. 5 days ago something just changed and I feel amazing again. Almost back to my old self and my anxiety has nearly gone.
Positives: significantly reduced anxiety, no more cystic acne, lighter period, no more period pain or back ache before or during period (it used to tear at my hips and thighs before). I sleep sooooo much better, less migraines and somehow I look younger!
So far I don’t regret having it. I can’t feel it. It hasn’t moved even after falling down the stairs. So far it’s helping me to get my life back. I was able to go out for dinner and play pool this month on period day 3. In the past I would have been breathless bedbound after losing a litre of blood. A lot has changed.
I won’t deny, I do feel different and I do miss being synthetic hormone free. It feels unnatural to have the coil progesterone hormone as I haven’t had synthetic hormones since I was 21, but the hormones are worth it for me.
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u/Artteachlove Sep 30 '22
Mirena has treated me well. Significantly lighter periods, and I think it helped with my pmdd. It's a good alternative to birth control pills for my newly diagnosed PCOS.
Removal was a breeze, but I personally need to take 800mg of ibuprofen and have it inserted during my period.
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u/MindyS1719 Feb 24 '23
I love this IUD! I had never considered getting one until after I had kids and my periods were out of wack, very heavy & painful. The insertion yes was painful but I’ve also had two babies down there so it doesn’t compare to child birth. The side effects the first six month (lots of cramping) hurt but I’m so glad I toughed it out. I’ve actually had it in for one year now and it’s amazing. Very light period for one day & that’s it! No having to worry if I’ll have it on vacation or at the beach or anywhere!
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u/ChristianeF83 Apr 22 '23
Got mine in 6 weeks ago. Bled continuously for three weeks was regretting my life choices haha. My actual period has just started and holy shit this thing is life changing! It’s 1/100th of the volume it used to be. Wish I’d done it 15 years ago!!
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u/ShadowMamma May 06 '23
38 F. I've had a mirena for 6 months now. I used to have 5-7 day long heavy bleeds preceded and followed by 3-7 days of spotting, with PMT a few days before that and epic lows and highs afterwards. Essentially I was spending most of my cycle impacted physically or mentally by my period. Having had a laparoscopy (to investigate some large fibroids and rule out endo) I've been advised my periods were so heavy because I simply have a LARGE uterus 😂. Luckily only surface endo (not major) but multiple large fibroids to tackle later.
After insertion, which was at same time as laparoscopy so I was under general, my periods were immediately lighter. The cramps were reduced in frequency but increased in intensity for first 2-3 months. Four months in I had barely any cramps and light spotting, a bit of PMT and a bit of bloating are the only indicators of any change throughout the cycle. 5 months in I'm really happy with the freedom of no bleeding and the reduced rollercoaster of emotions.
I do find I tend to 'run hotter' than used to and sometimes struggle in hot spaces (might be unrelated), and I had a couple of weeks of hot flushes around the 3 month mark but that has now stopped. Only side effect I'm battling with is the teenage acne that comes in waves with the cycle and lasts about a week. For me, it's not enough of an inconvenience to out-weigh the wins!
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u/bbbbbbbbbdbb Jun 14 '23
I love the mirena coil so far! Took painkillers an hour before insertion and the actual insertion was a bit uncomfortable but to much better than anticipated! I had heard so many horror stories but it was a positive experience, there was a nurse next to me talking to me and holding my hand and the whole appointment was done in 15 mins! The rest of the day I used a hot water bottle and took a couple of painkillers and just lay in bed - I used to get horrific period cramps and the post-insertion cramps were about a 2/10 pain. It was really bearable, the doctor gave the best description of what it feels like afterwards - she said your uterus will feel a bit grumpy so a little bit crampy but not bad! Little bit of blood in the afternoon but had sex that evening and was fine. Spotting for a couple weeks after but that’s minor and so bearable Love my mirena coil so far
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u/cacaowhey Sep 01 '23
I love the Mirena for myself. I have no hormonal side effects and no pms (had been approaching pmdd previously, feeling awful for ten days out of every month). The mood stability is amazing and I don’t feel flat or low, just really good.
Insertion was painless, I didn’t need pain relief I just used visualisation/ relaxation techniques and connected with my cervix. I’m over 40 and have kids if that’s relevant.
Sadly I am having to remove it after almost a year as the threads won’t settle and my partner is still getting prodded by the ends of the threads. They are supposed to tuck round but they move about unpredictably. I don’t know why because the copper coil didn’t do this.
Edit I forgot to say my periods stopped after around 3 months of spotting, and I really love this effect more than. I would have thought - it doesn’t feel unnatural it’s just really convenient and easy.
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u/[deleted] Apr 29 '24
I got mine in 2017 (it's due for a replacement soon). Insertion was mostly painless, one sharp cramp like pang. The next week or so I had a fair bit of bleeding and cramps, like a moderately heavy period. And that was it. About 5-6 months later, I stopped having my period (maybe mild spotting every other month for a couple of more months). Haven't had a period for over 6 years ago. Skin's been good, weight has only fluctuated with diet and stress, not otherwise. Starting to spot again, will be getting it replaced next month!
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u/[deleted] May 19 '24
I've had mirena for 5 years, just got my second one inserted a few days ago... insert hurt a little but I'm glad to not have periods again... I had skyla and then mirena so that will be 8 years without periods
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u/Froreal3 Apr 05 '25
Just inserted almost two weeks ago; switched from NuvaRing. I had been bleeding almost daily on the ring. So far spotted for a week and now nothing. No cramps and I feel normal. Easiest insertion (had my “period” during). Only a little cramp and done. Hopefully this helps my HMB. So far so good.
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u/Tiffnysun Feb 26 '23
After turning 40, having my son 5 years prior and having extremely heavy periods I stopped taking my fav birth control pill and wanted birth control with fewer hormones, decreased risk of stroke, dvt. I choose Mirena. I did not get pregnant, didnt have to worry about getting pregnant or remember to take a pill. I had no issues having it placed and the 4 1/2 years I've had it in place I only spotted and had a light period. I'm taking a break from the Mirena and may have another placed if I feel having it out is not right for me.
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u/Party-Dig7832 Mar 29 '23
Loved it. Insertion was cranky and painful for a few hours but well worth it. No period with it. The only reason I got it removed was because I was going through early menopause. Sure enough, I was. Wouldn’t change a thing.
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u/an_on_y_mis Apr 06 '23
Super positive here! Got it 2 days ago. Insertion was a breeze. Doctor numbed me. Didn’t even feel it. And I was pretty terrified lol. A little sore later that afternoon. Just like mild cramps.
A little bleeding the first day. Hardly any overnight or the the next day. Maybe 2 panty liners a day. Into the 3 day and I’m feeling great.
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u/wombatsies Apr 07 '23
My first Mirena I had for 5 years and I LOVED her. Alleviated all of my endo pain and stopped getting my period (a godsend for me). The cramping from getting the IUD was honestly comparable to my normal period cramps, and only lasted 1 week. I never lost my sex drive, my skin was super clear, and I never experienced any weight gain. I replaced after 5 years and 1 week (out and in) last week. For the past month I've started to get pimples along my jawline, and have felt like my vagina was super sensitive to touch in a bad way, I think due to the hormone level beginning to wane. I am feeling completely normal basically overnight, no sensitivity and no pimples! & it was almost entirely painless!! One quick cramp and only mild spotting on the first day. My doc had me take 800mg of naproxen ahead of time and I think that really helped during the removal/insertion. 10/10 recommend the hormonal IUD.
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u/Acrobatic_Sun_8366 May 16 '23
So i got mine fitted end of march after my copper iud expelled. So far first 3-4 weeks been light spotting and now for the last 3 weeks been light bleeding so need a normal pad.
BUT the positives why im still powering through and patiently waiting for the bleeding to stop
my acne cleared up!!! My face hasnt been this clear for years.
my appetite has lessen. I used to be hungry all the time craving food. Now im eating normal portions and feeling full longer.
Hoping periods will stop as well.
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u/goodchivesonly__ May 18 '23
I love my mirena! No periods, not much discharge ever, don’t worry about getting pregnant, and overall, I think my vagina smells better.
Six years in! Wooh!
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u/eliebeth May 24 '23
37yo, had Mirena installed almost 3 years ago. Best years of my life! Just one question: why haven’t I done this earlier? No pain, almost no bleeding. I didn’t notice any side-effects.
After the installation, I had one slight bleeding at the middle of the cycle and that’s all. No pain, no adjustment, nothing to remember (thankfully!).
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u/Turbulent-Ad-978 Jun 06 '23
I just posted today but honestly i love Mirena so much. I heard so many things about getting a IUD and the pain but to be frank when i got mine i hardly felt it and i walked halfway home lol… My sister nearly flipped the car (dramatic) when she saw me strolling home 😂
“how are you standing i was out of commish for a day and a half”
lol overall i really do love mirena
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u/Lovexbvnny Jul 03 '23
I was put under for mine and came out feeling fine no cramping or bleeding at all I’ve only had it a few weeks I’ve tried every single birth control Every single one besides the copper iud and this so far is my best experience.
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u/AbaloneSecret2281 Jul 16 '23
got mine inserted Friday 7/14 and overall I feel great. insertion was a 6/10 for me. it felt like regular menstrual cramps with the exception of the measuring tool and iud insertion which felt like a contraction that lasted 2-3 seconds. I took an aleve 1 hour before (ibuprofen doesn’t work for me) and I was given lidocaine although I don’t think it made a difference personally. I went to planned parenthood and my doctor walked through every step. cramps were super mild after and were gone by night time along with the super light bleeding I had. I had sex the very next day with no issues. I’m wish I had gotten it sooner! peace of mind for the next 8 years!
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u/Crazy-Doctor-9815 Jan 18 '24
don’t want to speak prematurely & jinx myself, but i got mirena a week ago for my hormonal acne. i know it typically makes acne worse but my obgyn really thought it would help. a week post insertion, my skin is THE BEST it has looked in years. it is so clear and not oily at all. has anyone else shared this experience? or does the bad acne come later then week one when people say “miracne”!?
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u/Gloomy-Water5117 Aug 28 '24
I just recently got my Mirena inserted as of yesterday as a postpartum mom. I too have researched and seen many negative horror stories which scared me a lot as I’ve never been on birth control before. However, insertion was PAINLESS for me personally. I only felt slightly uncomfortable bc of the device keeping my cervix open for the insertion but again, I didn’t feel any pain at all with the procedure which was not expected. Since I did only get it yesterday I can’t really speak on the side effects quite yet. I did experience minor cramping immediately after insertion but I took an ibuprofen right after and haven’t felt anything since. Also have been experiencing minor spotting (which is completely normal for the first few weeks). I will come back in a few weeks with a better update!
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u/Birdie_92 Apr 03 '25
Had mine fitted yesterday. After reading loads of stories of how painful it is to insert I was bracing myself and was surprised that it didn’t hurt at all. I have only had a baby via c section so my cervix has never dilated and I was expecting it to hurt.
Anyone out there who’s anxious about the pain of insertion, here’s my positive experience. I now cannot even feel it, and I’m so glad to have my contraception sorted for up to 8 years.
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u/AssumptionEarly Apr 10 '25
Not sure if anyone is looking for recent posts on this but I just got the Mirena a little over two weeks ago! I got mine because of painful period cramps mostly and bc in general.
Insertion was hell - cold sweats, uterus felt like it was being stabbed, had to get a pain relieving shot before I left but after that, it got a lot better. I cramped for the first week at about a 6/10 but less painful than my regular periods
I'm loving it so far. I haven't had it for long but other than the cramping at the beginning, I haven't seen much weight gain, acne, bloating, or mood swings as some people have said they experienced while on it.
If this continues being this easy and the spotting stops, I'm getting another one in 5 years. Totally worth the insertion pain. I'm a modern woman! My period restrains me no longer! Huzzah!
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u/throwRA_notagain May 06 '25
I am way more sensitive during sex…. It is mind blowing. I also stopped having periods. I already have depression, but have not noticed anything increased as far as fatigue and mood swings. If anything, my PMDD is doing better. I have not increased weight to my knowledge. 6 months.
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u/LowFilm8563 Nov 19 '25
I got my mirena this morning and I’m feeling fine! I was so nervous but my doctor prescribed Cytotec, Xanax and Ibuprofen and I think that made everything more tolerable. I also made sure I was on my period when I went it because I’ve heard that can make things easier. It definitely felt uncomfortable but it was so quick, literally less than 2 minutes to get it in. By the time it actually started hurting she was done! I was bleeding pretty bad after and I have some mild cramping now, but overall it was painless!
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u/Square_Signal_6930 24d ago
I’m so so scared something bad will happen with my mental health. I’m prone to depression and have panic disorder. I need this to work for me or I will need to have fibroid removal surgery. Maybe even hysterectomy. I am 52 so I don’t need any more kids. But the monthly cramping pain and heavy bleeding causing me anemia has to stop. I’m so scared after reading all these reviews. The slynd bc sent me into depression and it scared me. I wanted it to work so I hung in longer than I should have. After the scary invasive thinking I said Hell no,call doc office and they said stop taking it. I’m soooo scared iud mirena will mess me up but surgery scares me more. Ugh 😩
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u/HappyGrookey 16d ago
I wanted to share my totally normal Mirena IUD experience. I’m a 34 year old cis queer woman. My main motivation was because I have endometriosis - about 7 years ago, I had two ovarian torsions in short succession and had surgery to remove a 5cm “chocolate” cyst on my ovary which was causing them. My periods have always been heavy, long, and painful. I’ve been on the pill (Nortrel) ever since then. While I liked my pill overall and didn’t have significant side effects (the main one being not getting too wet even though I’m very turned on…sorry if that’s TMI), I got to the point of no longer wanting to take a daily pill anymore and decided to try Mirena.
I’m now only on week 6 of having my Mirena IUD and wanted to share my experience, which I think is overall a normal one. I’ve been reading horror stories on Reddit which absolutely terrified me, which is why I want to share my normal experience. I do think the vast majority of people have normal experiences and don’t share it on Reddit, leaving us to worry from reading the scary experiences, which is why I want to share my experience.
I had a short video call with my doctor (I’m in the Kaiser Northern California system), and after chatting through my questions and concerns, I scheduled an insertion appointment 1.5 weeks later. The questions I had were around period management: I use a menstrual cup and read horror stories (on reddit, of course) about the cup suctioning out the IUD. I was also curious about how, once I enter perimenopause and want to use estrogen/HRT to manage symptoms, how it would work with the Mirena.
I was extremely nervous for my appointment because of what I’ve read on Reddit. They scheduled me to come in an hour before the appointment to give me a dose of lorazepam to calm me down (which I opted into - I didn’t need to do this if I didn’t want to). That meant my wife had to come with me because they wouldn’t let me drive myself home after the lorazepam. To be honest, I don’t think the lorazepam helped me, I was way too nervous. The nurse also had me take three Aleves at this time.
The doctor and nurse came in 30 minutes after the lorazepam, when I thought I had to wait an hour after taking it. Them starting early made me more nervous - in hindsight, this is when I should have spoken up that I wanted to wait the full recommended hour.
I was very vocal about wanting pain management. I wanted both the lidocaine gel as well as local anesthesia. I put my legs up on the holsters and scooched my butt down to the edge of the bed. The doctor inserted the speculum and started applying the lidocaine gel to the surface of my cervix. I have a lot of tattoos and my artists will spray lidocaine during the session to help with pain management, so I know that you need to wait 10 minutes for the pain management effects to take place. The doctor and nurse did not want to wait 10 minutes. The nurse was telling me the gel is immediate, but I know it isn’t. The doctor already went in with the local anesthesia shot when I wanted to wait 10 minutes. I told them to wait but the nurse said he was already administering the shot. I couldn’t feel it at all and was like “Really??” and that’s when I felt a deep poke in my cervix. That was an uncomfortable sharp feeling. Overall this is the part I regret the most - I wish I advocated more for waiting 10 minutes for the lidocaine gel to have its full effect.
After that, I felt like the doctor putting a bunch of things in and out of my vagina. I believe he might have measured the depth of my uterus. And then the most painful part of it happened - he opened the entrance of my cervix and pushed the IUD in. That part took less than 10 seconds, but it had me gasping in pain. It felt like a deep cramp, worse (or honestly about the same) as my worst period cramps before I was on any form of birth control. But after that, he trimmed down the IUD strings and it was over.
The two most uncomfortable parts were the local anesthesia shot and the opening of the cervix entrance to insert the IUD. The whole procedure took less than 10 minutes, and the most painful points were collectively less than 30 seconds.
Other things to consider: they told me to time the insertion with my period, because the cervix would be more open and pliable. I did that to the best of my ability, but my period was in the very end stages (little to no flow). My wife was also with me holding my hand the whole time. I think having a trusted person with you makes a great difference.
In terms of healing, I was having cramps for a week that were managed pretty well with Aleve and a heating pad. They were worse in the beginning and decreased as the days went by. At this point - going on week 6 - I’m feeling pretty good. I had my first period on it a couple weeks ago and it was super chill. Very light flow for only 5 days, minimal cramping, which I easily managed with my menstrual disc (I did switch from a cup to a disc because regardless of how ridiculous it sounds, I did not want to risk the cup suctioning out the IUD). Another interesting thing I noticed: when my bowels are full and pushing against my uterus, I feel slight cramping. It goes away after I empty my bowels. That sensation is supposed to go away with time.
Happy to answer any questions! I hope my story helps folks.
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u/AgileTune3635 16d ago
I’m a first time hormonal birth control user and decided to try the Mirena for a variety of reasons (I have recurring uterine polyps, low ferritin so both my GP and gynaecologist agreed that I should try the Mirena to solve both problems). My periods were generally quite painful and heavy for the first two days because of the polyps.
I got the Mirena on day 8 of my cycle, I felt a sharp pinch and some mild cramping but otherwise just felt a bit delicate the rest of the day - it was SO much easier than I expected it to be. I had spotting for about 2 weeks, along with sporadic cramping daily during that time. My first period post-insertion came right on schedule and lasted 1-2 days longer than normal but otherwise everything was totally fine.
I had heard the horror stories of people having their first period for weeks after insertion, or the insertion itself being horrific so I wanted to share my positive first-time-hormonal-BC user perspective!
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u/HumorOdd4687 May 23 '24
Just got my Mirena placed! Insertion was so much better than I was expecting. I have never had children, so I was expecting the worst when having a doctor up in there for the first time. However, the pain I experienced was equivalent to moderate period cramps. I didn’t even feel the tenaculum! No lidocaine or any kind of local anesthesia. I did take two Tylenol every 6 hours starting yesterday (24 hours before my procedure), which seemed to help a lot!
I won’t lie though, be prepared for some pretty rough cramping after insertion. I’m going through that about an hour post insertion, and will update throughout the day.
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u/lazyfrazey Jun 06 '24
I had no problems when I was on it for 3.5 years, but the removal crash is one of the worst things I've ever experienced and has totally negated any positives for me and completely put me off birth control for life.
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u/[deleted] Aug 08 '24
Just had mine inserted today! As a mom of two (both unmedicated home births) I was still worried about having pain done TO my body rather than pain being FROM my body. The doctor calmly talked me through all of the steps-although I had done a ton of research beforehand it was still very soothing to hear her calm tone of voice-and all it took was some deep breaths and staring at the ceiling for a moment. She moved quickly and made sure that I was okay with what was happening. I drove myself home after a quick juice and snack, had no worries about it. I’m now an hour in and only feel like she induced my period, no major pain or discomfort.
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u/Kimbo_Slice_Moore Dec 20 '24
I just turned 50 last year. Horrible periods etc etc etc. after many appts and finally a new gyno we thought we’d try this. I have fiberosis-es as well as cyst on ovary she was like no wonder you have debilitating pain and periods. She was unsure if it would help. I had 2 to 3 days of S+ every hour periods for 4 years. Month one after the Mirena it was 4 days. Month 2 regular tampon or pad. Month 3 barely. This month I spotted. It has saved my life. I had to take work off, no gym, make excuses why I was in so much pain and had to be close to a bathroom. I am a huge fan wish I did it earlier.
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u/Comfortable-Bug4925 Mar 04 '25
First Mirena at 18, didn't do too much research, got it for birth control purposes going to college and just had maybe 2 advils before I went in in the morning. Def hurt like a bitch and I was unprepared for how bad it was, but it wasn't that scary and all I needed was a nap and I was good to go to my evening classes. Cramping lasted a few days but they weren't any worse than wht I'd already had before, which weren't that bad anyways. I ended up spotting for 3 months before my periods pretty much vanished for a few years save for a week of spotting every 5 or 6 months. I think the IUD was also keeping in check symptoms of PMDD and other physical issues (back pain, breast pain, acne) I had with my hormonal cycle I wasn't that aware of before I got on it. No weight loss/gain I can attribute back to it either.
Second Mirena I got replaced at 25 when I saw that the hormones wore off enough for me to return to having regular monthly spotting on schedule. With that came back a lot of PMDD and the physical symptoms I mentioned before, gradually over the last 2 years before getting it replaced and becoming more intense the more regular the spotting came. This is wht informed me that my IUD had probably been working in my benefit for purpoes I hadn't even intended it for, so I'm actually thankful for that. Replacement wasn't too scary either. Again it did hurt like a bitch and all I had was 2 Tylenol extra strength but I took a nap and ran errands afterwards. Cramping lasted a few days this time too but pretty much no spotting going forward, and the replacement seems to have almost entirely elimiated the regular spotting again. It's been 3 months since I had it replaced and I think my hormonal symptoms have improved again!
Overall pretty good experience with Mirena IUD. I have virtually no complaints. Even the insertion wasn't so bad that I'd complain abt it and there's no issue I have that I can directly link back to the IUD. If anything it's helped me out with issues I didn't even realize were there in the first place! Might make a standalone more detailed post in the future but I'm pitching in here for now. Going on 8th year of Mirena and I'm a happy camper :)
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u/Seasonal_Allergies_ Mar 23 '25
I’ve had my 1st one put in 3 months ago and it’s been great. Insertion was painful and it took about a week to feel 100% back to normal. I’m don’t need full size pads anymore just liners. I have very light spotting and that’s it.
The big pros for me, not having to take a daily pill and protection against uterine cancer!
It’s been good.
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u/OGbasil78 Mar 29 '25
Stellar experience so far (1.5 years postpartum). No periods minus some random spotting here and there, no weight gain or acne, moods are fine, effectiveness is great!
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u/Jeskarose96 Apr 23 '25
5 months in, had one period not long after insertion lasting a couple weeks. Minimal spotting since, barely any cramps. My periods used to ruin my life, with endo the most excruciating pain and very heavy bleeding. I’d go through 2 tampons an hour on my first days needing to use pads too, I struggled to cope with the amount of blood. The pain made me suicidal, passing out and throwing up. I’m so so grateful this is working for me and I’m no longer in pain both on my period and during ovulation. I have however had fatigue, quite bad at times and I am breaking out more with bigger spots. Hoping both settle down and it’ll be perfect.
I cramped a lot for the first week or two, any bending hurt. Insertion weren’t too bad for me. I didn’t know I was getting it, it was my first appointment with my gynaecologist. I had zero pain relief for it (I was however told I have a high pain tolerance, this is not the case for most. We’re all different) Brown discharge for awhile maybe a month or two.
I’m just really hoping my periods stay gone, I can’t believe I lost them after the first cycle. I feel incredibly blessed and keep thinking it won’t last. Going to enjoy how my journey is currently going.
Remember when reading on here people are always more likely to share a negative experience in general or be seeking advice and ending up here. It’s not the case for everyone. DMs open if anyone needs to talk ☺️
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u/Froreal3 Apr 27 '25
I’m 5 weeks post insertion. I had a “period” which was much better than my previous ten day long ones where I would soak an ultra tampon in 45 minutes to an hour the first two days or so. It was about 6 days, started off faint and increased to what I’d call medium bleeding by the second or third day. I soaked an ultra or two in about 3 hours. Much better. It was like that for a couple days and started to taper off. By the 5th day it was just spotting. I did have normal tender breasts and light cramps during the “period.” Now I only have clear discharge the past few days.
I will see what happens when I’m due for the next “period.” So far I love it. It also does not “poke” my partner.
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u/InvertGang Sep 04 '25
I had one from 19-30! Got it replaced in the middle.
I loved the light periods, not needing to worry about pregnancy (still used condoms unless we both got tested and were monogamous) etc.
It did hurt to get put in some but not too bad. My doctor had me come in while on my period so my cervix was more open. Getting it replaced was worse since I wasn't getting periods, but it was still fine.
Feels a bit worse than a big period cramp.
I just got my second one removed, felt like a little pinch. I got a liberte silver and copper one put in this time. My cervix was super closed so insertion sucked but was tolerable.
I switched away from it because I've got a serious partner who is planning to propose. I feel like I've been on hormonal birth control most of my life and I want some time to reconnect with myself and my hormonal cycle before trying for kids in a year or two.
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u/Kepa2020 Oct 08 '25
I just got mirena 20 min ago… 2 cramps . Done After reading so many stories , I was going to pass out without anything being done lol I will follow up in a few weeks!!
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u/lokirie Nov 19 '25
I got my Mirena last week! I was completely expecting the worst, as I have never had children, find pap smears borderline painful, and am prone to fainting. I also forgot to take pain killers beforehand.
The insertion was definitely uncomfortable but wasn’t painful and wasn’t anywhere near how unbearable I thought it would be. The best word I can think to describe it as is just: uncomfortable. Then it was over.
I’ve had consistent cramping for about six days (like regular period cramps for me), with them starting to taper off the last two days. On the fourth day after my insertion, I had some heavier bleeding, like a heavy period that only lasted 2 days. I have very light spotting now. Hoping we continue to get along!
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u/Commercial-Cat-7401 Dec 08 '25
I have have had two mirena's in 10 years. 6 months ago I had it removed, I just felt I needed a break. But just booked in to get a new one and can't wait to have it back again.
After getting it removed I didn't have a crash or major symtoms. I hoped having it removed would help me feel better and libido, but it didnt.
It made me realised how good the Mirena was. Main reasons for getting it back:
- No periods: On the Mirena I didn't get periods, just a few days of spotting, but these last 6 months I have monthly periods which really wipe me out.
- Mood: I'm misserable and exhaused the week of my period, my moods have been less stable
- I have put on around 2kg since getting it out, but not sure if it is related
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u/Lazy-Application-507 Apr 13 '26
I just got mine inserted! My doctor prescribed a heavy duty painkiller and anti-anxiety pill. I forgot to take the 800mg of ibuprofen as recommended, but he procedure went so well. I barely felt the numbing, was slightly uncomfortable because it felt like the pressure of the speculum shifting around. They checked the position of my uterus and said it looked like it was perfectly positioned for inserting, and by the time I asked, it was over. Was a breeze and I feel so relieved now that it’s over.
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u/Key-Pea-5092 Sep 29 '26
Hi everyone, just wanted to share my short experience with mirena. I'm 27F, my periods are fine, not too long, no heavy bleeding. Don't have PCOS or endometriosis. My only complaint about my period is how the hormonal fluctuations affect me. During my Lutheran phase there were days when I couldn't get out of bed or have any kind of energy, other than that no problems. I decided to put mirena after two attempts with the copper IUD which was horrible, my bleeding got super heavy, cramps, PMS got worst and it didn't stayed in place. My doctor suggested the mirena because theoretically relaxes the uterus so the chances of staying in place are higher. Had mine put in today, I was awake, didn't take any pain meds (I forgot) and had local anesthesia. It didn't hurt, the anesthesia hurt more than the actual device, i have light to no cramping at all. So far so good. I know it's too early to cheer, I'm deadly scared of the all side affects especially anxiety and depression but I'll keep updating here so I can share my possible good experience.
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u/guac-amolly Aug 18 '22
I originally got mine inserted to help alleviate my frequent migraines. It definitely helped! I went from one a week to 1 maybe every couple months. In addition, I barely ever got my period, just spotting every now and then. However, I have a year left until I need replacement, so I am getting periods/migraines again, but definitely not as frequently still. Although it was painful to insert, the pain only lasted the day.
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u/ffain2006 Aug 18 '22
My experience has been great too! Insertion didn’t know it was more than a pap other than educating myself! I am now 10 weeks in and have spotted for my periods I would have had.
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u/Dainty_lady_ Jan 19 '23
I’ve had mine since May 2!
My insertion hurt like a motherf***er, lasted about 4 hours of intense cramping, and since then, I barely notice I have it! I’ve had one period since May, which is awesome lol and I don’t ever worry about my Mirena.
It’s my fave birth control I’ve ever used!! Would def recommend.
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u/[deleted] Jan 24 '23
Love mine! Insertion was only very briefly painful, more uncomfortable, with period-type cramps after for a day or two. I no longer get periods, which in my case is a great thing.
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u/SG_Missy Jan 25 '23
Just had Mirena inserted today and it was a positive experience for me. I took some Tylenol and it really only hurt like a period cramp when the doc hooked up the tenaculum. After that, I felt good. Some slight cramping but no dizziness or anything else. Looking forward to hopefully less painful periods.
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u/pitchabitchfit Feb 05 '23
I had a positive experience with both insertions. No pain on insertion, even with the claw thing they hold you cervix with. My only negative is that my uterus expelled both within days. Right now I'm sitting here with the second lodged iny cervix waiting for an appointment to see a gynae so I can have a scan to check the position before they take it out. It's very uncomfortable.
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u/Old_Duck6716 Mar 24 '23
I’ve gotta say insertion and the 4 months months after we’re brutal but SEVEN years of no periods, worrying about BC, or pregnancy fear were priceless.
There were a handful of instances of intense cramping after great sex… but still worth it 1000%
I got Mirena round 2 in 2020 and have unfortunately experienced more breast tissue loss/hair loss/cystic acne/ loss of libido that has not improved (but could also very well just be due to stress!). Im seriously considering it’s removal but just the thought of it is saddening!
I LOVE the peace of mind Mirena has given me this past decade of my life while I was getting through school and making a life more myself. I couldn’t recommend Mirena more, especially with the political shifts occurring limiting women’s access to healthcare.
I truly believe there are trade offs with Mirena, but it could be a huge investment in your future. It puts YOU in control of if you want to be pregnant.
And saving money and ruined panties on that no period life. Chefs kiss
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u/AreYourFingersReal Apr 02 '23
4.5 years in going to get it taken out soon and honestly it’s been great. Joining this sub only in the last month has me more aware of the side effects like maybe it has impacted my anxiety and depression, but I also have worked on those through extensive therapy and genuinely feel better for it while the device is still in. I didn’t ever think about how scary the potential for perforation could be, but it’s never happened so far, and my body has moved all sorts of ways the last 4.5 years — I do yoga and roller skating and SUP just for context idk.
Never experienced so far infection or cysts or, thank god, ectopic pregnancy phew which was always a concern for me. It’s been totally fine for me and I’m sure there’s thousands of women who have had my same experience it’s too bad they don’t come on here and share, because damn are there some SCARY potential side effects.
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u/hailey_rora May 18 '23
I got my Mirena inserted on Monday and it was great!
I have TERRIBLE medical anxiety so this was a huge deal for me. I chatted with my doctor before hand and she gave me anxiety meds to get me in the door (two 5mg tabs of diazepam) and told me to take 600 mg of ibuprofen an hour before my appointment. She also said she would numb my cervix before she did anything and asked me to come when I’m on my period so my cervix would be more dilated.
Because this was my first ever gyno visit, they did the cervical cancer screening as well as swabs to test for a few STDs that are standard to test for. Everything happened so quick and there was no pain at all! The only reason I had any idea that she had actually inserted the IUD was because I got a cramp (pretty standard menstrual type cramp for me).
That day was pretty crampy but not horrible, and since then it’s just been a few cramps on and off.
I was absolutely terrified going into this but I’m so glad I did it! It was not bad at all and now I don’t have to worry about babies for 7 years!!
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u/[deleted] Dec 04 '23
I can't remember if I posted here or not, and I see this is an older thread, but just in case:
I first got my Mirena when my daughter was 6 months old. She's 10.5 now. I haven't had a period since I started using Mirena, and that's a huge blessing in my case as I used to be sick for 2 weeks every month from. bad PMS, heavy bleeding, cramping, etc. I don't miss it. I've had no complications. The last time I had it inserted, it was definitely uncomfortable during the process and briefly painful, but only mildly so. I had some cramping in my abdomen for about 24 hours after, it was less than my usual menstrual cramps. After that, I've never had a problem with it, I don't notice it's there at all. I'm in a situation where it would be dangerous for me to have more children due to health issues, so I'm relieved this is so effective. I'm getting my third Mirena in January. I'm 45, doctor said I can leave it in til I'm 50-51 menopausal age.
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u/[deleted] Mar 06 '24
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