Would Like Reviews on IUD

[melancholia]

I used to be on birth control pills, but after being on the pill for 7 years, I went off of it two years ago. Since then, I've been off birth control entirely, except for condoms, as I wasn't in an exclusive relationship with anyone or having sex regularly. I've started seeing someone, though, and it's a good idea for me to get back on birth control. So I've been researching the Mirena IUD.... let's just say there is A LOT of reviews out there on the internet. I keep finding such polarized reviews - some women say it's perfectly fine, they haven't had any problems. While some women say it's horrifying, that they've gained massive amounts of weight, or they experienced incredible pain during and after insertion, and some have said they still get heavy periods and lots of intermittent bleeding.... these are NOT things I want to deal with, and it scares me from going ahead with the IUD. I've decided that Mirena would be best for me, as I've heard even worse things about the copper IUD (a higher chance of pregnancy, with 99% chance of the pregnancy being ectopic.... no thank you).

So I'm wondering if any of the ladies on this forum have had the Mirena IUD, and what your experience was like.

Thank you in advance.

[basilandthyme]

My experience with Mirena was of continual spotting. I had it removed after three months. However, a dear friend absolutely loves her one.

I think the only way to find out if it works for you is to try it. If it doesn't work, removing it is a very simple procedure.

[melancholia]

Thanks for your response.

I'm mostly anxious about gaining weight and intermittent bleeding. I'll be asking my Dr. questions when I go to my appointment on Saturday, but getting replies from people who have actually experienced it is helpful.

[friendsfirst]

I personally have the Mirena and will have had it for 4 years December 8. I love it. I want no more children and am only in monogamous relationships. I highly recommend it. I haven't had a period in years. I had one for 2 years previously and had it removed due to mood swings. I actually lost about 20 lbs on it during that time. I will be getting it again next year I'm certain, as there are no more children in my future.

[basilandthyme]

Thanks for your response.

I'm mostly anxious about gaining weight and intermittent bleeding. I'll be asking my Dr. questions when I go to my appointment on Saturday, but getting replies from people who have actually experienced it is helpful.

There's no need to be anxious. If the side effects you are concerned about do happen, just have the IUD removed. Removal is quick and painless.