Mirena and other IUCs....

[polly4711]

Hello, I know that this is a personal thread, so I thank you ahead of time for any input.

I have a few friends that have gotten the Mirena IUC. They like it and I'm seriously thinking about it becuase I'm tired of taking a pill everyday. I've read a variety of different experiences, but I trust you women the most. What have you heard/experienced?

Just as background, I've never had any kids.

[badger]

the topic was discussed in quite a detail here (http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=19171&highlight=mirena)

[VeloVT]

I have no experience with IUDs. However, if you're looking for an alternative to the pill and your main complaint is having to take it every day (not the hormones), you might consider Depo Provera. I've been very happy with it, and it's now available in a low-dose version.

[Tuckervill]

I have a Mirena, not for birth control, but because there was evidence of unopposed estrogen in my cycle (I'm 48). It is the second IUD I have had. The first was the copper one in my 30s. The copper one did not serve me well. Horrible horrible cramps and heavy periods, neither of which I had ever experienced before.

The goal for me having Mirena now is to regulate periods, keep the uterine lining thin, and perhaps in a few years I will be through menopause and I can take it out.

I read everything I could about it, including many internet posts. The reviews are mixed with the loudest voices belonging to the naysayers. I think younger women who get it and have a bad experience are more likely to post on message boards, and blame a lot of unrelated things on the Mirena, like general *****iness or what-have-you; when in reality they are newly married, new mothers, new jobs, etc., and they underestimate what affect that stress has on their lives. It is a synthetic hormone, progestin, that leaches off in minute amounts over time. It's not enough to have a huge effect on your mood.

I've had it since October, and while I would like to say it's all been great, it hasn't. The pros are that I feel a great clarity of mind, which I have been lacking for a few years. My doctor says this is not a side effect, and that is probably true--I have made an important decision about my future and that has me feeling great. I did gain weight, but I do sometimes feel like my body is acting like it did when I was much younger. There are pros and cons to that. Periods are extremely light, but they go on for a long time and are not regular. I don't think this is typical. I'm still in the trial period, though, so I'm going to give my body a little longer to adjust. My periods were way worse without it and my uterine lining was polyp=y, so right now I'm withholding judgment.

Insertion was not as painful as the endometrial biopsy that preceded it. It was more painful this time than the first IUD, but I think that had something to do with the doctor.

No one is going to be able to tell you how it will be for you. You just have to make the most informed decision you can. Good luck with it!

Karen

[polly4711]

Thank you all! that post was very helpful. I'll talk with my doc when I go in...

[tharley]

I got the Mirena a couple of years ago, and I have to admit, it was very painful when it was inserted. I haven't had any kids, so that extra stretching was oh-so pleasant. It took me about 4/5 days to get over the pains, but now it's no problem. I get minor cramps and have tiny periods every now and then, but I think it's way better than the pill. I just dread when I will need to get it replaced, yikes.