Mirena side effects

63 Responses to “Mirena side effects”

Lotusblsm, on September 6th, 2008 at 10:40 am Said:

I am really happy to find all these posts. I have looked up mirena posts on and off since I had it put in two years ago. Now I am going to share my story with as many message boards as possible. Like I said I had the mirena inserted six weeks after my third daughter was born in July 2006. My husband and I wanted the option to have more children and after having a bad time with almost every other BC out there we read all the information and talked to the doctor and decided on it. When they put it in I had awful pain and the 800 ibuprofen they told me to take ahead was not even close to helping. I was in tears. After that my physical health went down hill. I suffered from severe acne, mood swings, depression/anxiety, pregnancy symptoms (breast tenderness,nausea,bloating). About six months after insertion I was breastfeeding and discovered I had lumps in my breast that turned out to be cysts and a couple weeks ago we discovered I have a 5 cm cyst on my right ovary that wasn’t there in the spring. And I had many more symptoms that I didn’t put together until just recently. These were extremely difficult to live with but the worst thing that happened was I became pregnant a couple weeks ago. I was having early pregnancy symptoms but kept trying to talk myself out of it because the mirena is suppose to be 99.9% effective (what a joke)! It kept nagging at me so I took a home pregnancy test and when it came back positive I was shocked and went into a panic attack. So I took another hpt and sure enough positive again. I had been having abdominal pain and I called the doctor because I was really concerned about an ectopic. She made me go to the ER. I ended up in that ER 3 times in one week. My husband and I starting getting excited at the prospect of having another baby even though we hadn’t planned on it so soon. After they confirmed the pregnancy the first day and found the ovarian cyst (they said my abdominal pain was from that) I had to go back to the ER two days later and again 3 days after that. I was having!
severe
pelvic/abdominal pain and they ran every test imaginable to see what was going on. I was poked and prodded and spent about 10 hours each day we were there. I ended up with a severe UTI from the catheters they had to insert for the trans vaginal ultrasounds. At first they thought I had a viable pregnancy because my Hcg levels were rising and since I was about 5 weeks along they decided to take out the mirena (they didn’t tell me it could cause a miscarriage which I didn’t think about to later because I already knew the risks, I research everything but they didn’t know if I knew the risks!). I did discover it wasn’t ectopic and that the embryo was in my uterus (which made the whole thing worse when it was all said and done because I really thought it would be ectopic and for some reason that would have made it a little less emotionally painful for me) Sadly, we miscarried a little over a week ago. It has been the worst experience of mine and my husband’s life. I can’t even express in words how horrible this has been. This is a senseless tragedy that could have been avoided. The makers of this product are lying to women. There statistics are way off and they are not honest about side effects. My husband and I are devastated and are extremely angry with the company who makes this evil contraceptive. I think we may sue. If anyone wants to discuss this with me or share a story please email me at mariesasager@aol.com. Our voices need to be heard!
Mariana, on September 9th, 2008 at 4:19 pm Said:

Hi all !! I need your HELP ASAP !
I have read all your posts.. and I am really concerned on what to do with my Mirena. I have noticed that since I have it, my modd changed so bad.. feeling anxious, depressed, nervousness, brain fog sometimes..
I am serious.. I never been like this before.
I have Mirena for almost 2 years now and it is being getting worse.. Mirena side effects include mood change.. it can be possible so bad ?
Thank you I wait for your answers
che, on September 9th, 2008 at 11:49 pm Said:

Hello Mariana,
Thanks for visiting our site. I’ve also read that some women experienced mood swing,panic attack, depression etc. Its sounds scary but i can only speak through my experience. Mirena changed my body a lot. I thought i was crazy but trust your body!

Mirena doesn’t fit to all. Im glad I only had it for almost 8 weeks, i couldn’t take it anymore!! I know what you feel right now. But through reading other women experiences, dont think twice make an appointment to your doc. and you’ll see the difference may be your husband or partner can tell it too

Im Mirena free now, and my husband said that im happier than ever!! Shining and back to normal!!

Goodluck and i hope to hear from you again.

che
che, on September 10th, 2008 at 12:14 am Said:

Hello Marie,

Thanks for visiting our site. Im really shocked of what you’ve shared about Mirena. Im sorry that you have to through all that.

Mirena ruined our body!!! This is sick!! I also want Mirena out of the market. Mirena doesn’t help at all’! Mirena has more bad side effects than good, reading their experiences make me realized that hey its time to take it out im happy coz I did. I hope your much better now after all what Mirena did!!!Have a good day!
Mariana, on September 11th, 2008 at 8:41 am Said:

Hi Che,
I really appreciate your soon reply.
I still have Mirena and thinking in what to do. I probably make appointment with the doctor to be removed.. of course not telling all the side effects I am having because I see most of the OB “like” Mirena !
I am shocked about all the women experiences, because as I told you before I never ever experienced these sympotms.. moreover I am seeing a psychologist to straight my life a little bit…
I really want to go back to normal life, since this is so painful (you know being sad, brain fog, nervous, not patient.. etc.. ) and since I am a proud mom of 2 little girls.
Take Care and thank you
Rosana, on December 23rd, 2008 at 8:54 am Said:

Oh my God!!!

I knew that there was something wrong with me for a long time after I had the Mirena put in. First, my milk supply was getting smaller and smaller. By the time I stop breastfeeding, there was soooo little coming out that I was frustrated, annoyed, sad. All kinds of things. Second, I have acne soooo bad that when I finally get my face to clear up, there is more coming out. Third, I am tired all the time, which I attributed to breastfeeding during the night, working full-time (while pumping milk during the day) and the almost two hour drive total ( I have to do from home to work and viceversa) everyday. But no, even after I sleep 8 hours, I wake up feeling like I had been hit by a truck. Last, the weight gain has been ridiculous 40 pounds in 11 months. I wanted it taken out but I did not want to go back to the same doctor because I feel he only convince me to get because of the money he was making for it. However, I do not have any other options with my health insurance in this area, so I have to go back to him urrrrggghhhh!!!!
Derya, on January 6th, 2009 at 8:15 pm Said:

I have mirena inserted 6 months ago and recently I have acne problem. I have no periods at all for last six months. I have used 3 different type of antibiotics for acne and didnt work. I used differin cream didnt work. I am planning to get it removed because I cant deal with acne anymore, I never had acne before. One or two during my period and that’s it. I had paragard inserted twice and fall out - my uterus didnt hold it. Other choice is mirena and it is causing acne. I cannot use birth control pills because I have blood clotting condition. I guess I am out of luck.
cv, on January 8th, 2009 at 10:13 pm Said:

this is for che. first of all hair loss after pregnancy does not happen until about 3 months or so after birth. this happens because you dont lose your normal ammount during pregnancy. second you have mood swings after having a baby because your hormones are out of whack. and it can take a while for you to be balanced again. also when you say because you bled for 7 months (which your doctor no doubt warned you about) you have a decreased libido. Again you just had a baby it happens. it sounds as tho you madde yourself neurotic- nightmares? Im not saying that your iud isnt partly to blame but a lot of your particular symptoms are due to having a baby. maybe you should read the last part of a pregnancy book or something do some research.
cv, on January 8th, 2009 at 10:15 pm Said:

my bad i meant 7 weeks
BB, on January 13th, 2009 at 8:37 am Said:

I’ve had the Mirena for a little over a year - had it inserted Nov. of ‘07. I have 2 children (1 yr. and 4 yrs.) and thought this was the answer. I’ve felt awful since and I look it. I look like I’m getting ready to start my period every single day and it’s getting worse. I’ve had cramping, headaches, bloatedness and periods that have lasted over 2 weeks when a normal one lasts only 4-5 days. I have an appointment on the 22nd to have it taken out. I’m not dealing with this anymore, it’s definitely NOT the answer. I feel so bad for all of you who have had even worse reactions than me. Hang in there and there are OTHER products out there that are WAY better than going through this torture. As if women don’t go through enough “women” stuff - now to have this… it’s ridiculous.
chichi, on January 14th, 2009 at 6:11 pm Said:

I had Mirena put in in April of 2008. Prior i have tried other birth controls that caused some weight gain. By the way i have never been pregnant or weight gain and i am 25. lately the acne on my face is like that of a 15yr old, i have gained about 10lbs. My body has changed a lot in the past year. Mind you my body is very athletic and toned. I don’t fit most of my clothes anymore, my cheeks are fat. i hope it’s doing it’s job of me not getting pregnant until i am married since that is the new trend these days. i am here to share your pain.
Sandra, on January 14th, 2009 at 9:14 pm Said:

It’s been almost 6 months since I had Mirena inserted and didn’t notice any side effects until 2 months later, it started with dizziness and backaches, my energy levels started decreasing, have had yeast infections, depression, anxiety, white discharge, painful intercourse. I was ready to schedule an appt. to see a therapist when I found that other women had been experiencing the same side effects. I finally had it removed today even though my doctor insisted that my symptions (especially depression) is caused by Mirena. Why are doctors so in favor of Mirena? he claims that there’s no hormones and researching it further it does release Levonorgestrel isn’t that a type of hormone??
Sandra, on January 14th, 2009 at 9:16 pm Said:

correction:
my doctor insisted that my symptions (especially depression) isn’t caused by Mirena.
Claire, on January 26th, 2009 at 5:18 pm Said:

Hi just thought I’d look up problems with the mirena as I suffer with painful breasts and found this site. I have had 3 mirena’s over the years. I have suffered with painful boobs since I had the first mirena fitted. Since my last daughter was born, in 2003, I have continually had breast milk, swollen and painful breasts for about 2-3 weeks of every month and pain so bad in my hips I struggle to walk sometimes. My milk is mainly white but a couple of milk ducts have green or black milk coming out? I have Crohns disease which I found was caused by taking the pill. I am also very fertile (i have had about 9 pregnancies) so mirena is my only option other than sterilisation. I have also spots, weight gain, panic attacks/nervousness. I didn’t know this might be caused by mirena. The only good thing is that I haven’t had a period since 2003 even when I had a new mirena fitted oct 08. What option do I have though, more children, sterilisation, no sex or the mirena?
Deb, on January 26th, 2009 at 6:31 pm Said:

I’m with you Sandra. I got my mirena put in almost 2 years ago. It was great for a while, until I started putting on weight. When I got it put in I was 128 lbs. I already have two children and was recently divorced. I was told by a couple friends this is a great way if you don’t want your period anymore and need the protection. I was all for that. I am very active, I play hockey usually twice a week and run on the treadmill usually 3 or 4 times a week. Don’t always eat right. But, pretty good for the most part. I now, almost 2 years later weight 146 lbs. A year ago I started getting severe cramping in my lower abdomine. Depressed about the weight gain and have had multiple checks on my upper abdomin. Which has never came back conclusive of any specific problem. I feel like I’m 6 months pregnant because I’m so bloated. Doesn’t matter what I eat. Also had the dizziness and foggy feeling. Needless to say, I get it removed tomorrow. I’m crossing my fingers that all my symptoms go away. I am getting married in June and hope everything is back to normal by then. Here’s hoping….. Deb
wt, on January 28th, 2009 at 11:44 am Said:

I have been having alot of the same problems. I really thought when I got the Mirena, the side effects would be minimal. I got the Mirena in NOV 2008. I go for my first check up next week and am seriously considering asking them to take it out. Evrything dates back to when I got it out in. I have gained 10-15lbs, i am depressed and crying everyday and my libido has decreased so much that my fiance is doubting things between us. I assured him there is no problem, but when this is affecting other people, something has to be done. I guess I will talk to the doc because i got pregnant on the pill and I’m not sure what else to do. i’m glad to see that I’m not the only one.
Karyn Lee, on January 30th, 2009 at 4:26 am Said:

Hi, I have had a mirena put in and since ive had it in ive had periods for about 2 weeks so my doctor has put me on Primulot. I think the bleeding stops and then it starts again. I get depressed and cry a lot for no reason. I would like to keep it in cause it has helped in some ways as I was getting heavy bledding. Hope this is of good use to someone else.
Karyn Lee, on January 30th, 2009 at 4:29 am Said:

Hi, As Im going through menopause I have tried taking hormone tablets and other things even though this has side effects this is the only thing that has helped. It fell out not long ago so I had to get another one put in, im just hoping things settle down and I start feeling myself again soon.
Karyn Lee, on January 30th, 2009 at 5:53 am Said:

I would really like sometime to tell me if theyve had any side affects, bad ones cause otherwise this is helping me.
Traci, on January 30th, 2009 at 12:42 pm Said:

I have had the mirena for about 2 years. I thought I was the only one with the 30 lb weight gain. I am always tired and never feel like doing anything. I have also gone so far as to isloate myself from family. I am planning to have the mirena taken out! Can anyone answer this question: Will I ever loose this weight????????
Traci, on January 30th, 2009 at 6:14 pm Said:

Traci, I have had a mirena for about 2 years, I lost weight I think if you get some iron tablets you might feel better again, I was also like that and just felt like lying down all the time but if you get some vitamin tablets or iron tablets, eat plenty of fruit and drink water you should start feeling okay again. Try not to isolate from friends and family, they are the ones that will support you and get you through this, my family understand and are there for me. Hope this advice works.
Michelle, on February 2nd, 2009 at 1:12 pm Said:

I had Mirena inserted in Sept. 2008. No problems at first, accept having a period that lasted 2 weeks . For the last month I have been suffering from back and abdominal pain, to the point that I can barely move. I also have pain in my hip and acne break outs. I am depressed, very tired and have no libido. Is all this from the Mirena? Does anyone else have the same symptoms?
Nikky, on February 2nd, 2009 at 6:47 pm Said:

Im a mother of 2 (4 and 6yrs) and have had the Mirena in since january 2008, i had not to many side effects to start with, cramps/moodieness etc, but now its horible. Im getting severe lower abdominal pains, painful sex, moodieness, tiredness, dizzieness, severe headaches, depression, just down right feelin like shit.. i put it down to the stress of everyday life with 2 small kids but now ive put 2 and 2 together and its the Mirena.

I dont want any more kids but sterilisation isnt poss cos im only 25, so i chose mirena. I have had the implanon before mirena but i was getting to much hormones for my body weight (im only 50kgs), severe depression led me to take it out.

unfort the only option for me is to put up with the pain and the rest of the horible side effects..
che, on February 3rd, 2009 at 4:34 pm Said:

FLOWERS FOR ALL THE WOMEN OUT THERE WHO SUFFERED ENOUGH FROM MIRENA (*+*)
che, on February 3rd, 2009 at 5:31 pm Said:

Hello everyone!
,
Thanks for visiting our site. I know what u guys are goin through right now, I’ve been there, and believe me taking out Mirena was the best decision I made. I really felt good. I didn’t deserve those bad side effects and feeling horrible, there must be something thére (aside from Mirena) that would feel better.

UPDATE: Rosane, will be happy to her from you soon after Mirena…I’m sure that you felt much better. Keep us updated.

DERYA - stay pretty and you are lucky coz you dont have much side effects from Mirena.

CV- thanks for stopping by, and sharing your opinion with us, I agree with you completely, after having a baby everything change, hormone levels etc. But thank GOD that I trust my body and those feeling neurotic? mmm I felt better after Mirena has been taken out no more nightmares (*+*) We will be happy to hear your experience with Mirena too, bad or good.

BB- I agree with you, there must be somewhere out there or other products that suited to us, not only Mirena.

CHICHI- thanks for sharing your experience with us.

SANDRA- Mirena is an estrogen-free intrauterine contraceptive that delivers small amounts of hormone.

My doc also told me that Mirena has a very little, little amount of hormones, but whew@$ the side effects were too bigggggg to be little. Mirena doesn’t fit to all. Some women dont have any problem about it. My doc is using Mirena and she is fine with it. Lucky one!!!!

CLAIRE- After what Mirena did to me, I talked to my husband and he supported me 1010%. Mirena or other products? We choose natural contraceptive, whew@!$#% it’s not easy, but we are both happy. (*+*)

DEB- I’m curious…We wanna hear you soon. Good luck to your upcoming wedding, I’m pretty sure you are the most beautiful bride. Keep shining!

WT- you are not alone, we wanna hear you soon. Good luck to your appointment.

Karyn Lee- wow yeah another thing that women have to deal with @#$% huh! If you can tolerate the side effects goo for it , but if not, dont wait too long. About bad side effects of Mirena, (read above real stories/experience/s with Mirena. Good luck and be strong.

TRACI- When I was with Mirena, I was always hungry, yummmmy everything was yummmy,I had a good appetite boommmm!@ I gained weight too. I lose weight after MIRENa was taken. But ofcourse it’s all about combination of everything, proper diet, exercise etc. We will be happy to hear you soon.

MICHELLE- I had the same experience, if you have time read above stories, it’s from real experiences. Good luck and keep us updated.

NIKKY– There must be something out there or other products that will fit to you, with less or may be no side effects at all, talk to your OB about it, friends, discuss it with you partner, read forums, about presonal experiences about using contraceptives etc. I’m Mirena free now. It’s a nice feeling to get up every morning without Mirena down there (*+*)

To all women out there, we will be happy to hear other products/contraceptives that work good for you. Good luck and be strong!

This forum is based on personal experiences, comments/advices are provided by individuals opinions. Always check with your physician before taking any action, regarding your health.

Thank you and keep us updated!!

che
Carmen, on February 6th, 2009 at 7:13 pm Said:

Hi, I got the mirena put in on oct 7, 2008. Ever since then I have gained weight, feel tired all of the time, have a lot of back pain and just dont feel like getting out of bed anymore. At firsat I thought it was just me. But after reading the posts I can see that I am not alone. My mom gave me iron pills (I thought the tiredness was due to my anemia) but they havent helped. so now i am thinking it is because of mirena. now i am definately thinking of taking it out!
Amy, on February 10th, 2009 at 9:29 am Said:

Hello everyone i was googling looking for what happens after you had a mirena in over five years and i cant find any answers. I was reading everyones blog and felt bad to hear all of your bad expirences with mirena. Ive had mirena as my birth control for five years as of this month. the only side effects ive had is light spotting periods the first couple months. ive ever gained weight or had mood problems. i guess i was lucky.
Michelle, on March 1st, 2009 at 6:53 pm Said:

Like most of you all, I am so happy to have found this site, plus many others.
I had my Mirena placed December of 07 a few months I had my daughter. I really wasnt too familiar with birth controls. I just knew I had been on yaz for like 3 months, and it was making all my symptoms worse. And as soon as I had got off that to switch to another birth control.. Within that timing, I had got pregnant.
My daughter was born with some birth effects, so that is why I choose Mirena, to prevent pregnancy for 5 years, and my daughter is alot to take care of, and sometimes it’s hard reamembering a pill each and everyday.
After I had Mirena placed, It was really painful, I had almost passed out! I bleed constantly for about 2-3 months. Finally, my periods just stoped over all. Maybe once or twice I would spot. But barly ever.
Then these past two months, Ive been starting to get a period, It just seems to last and last. I think its over. But suprise it’s here.
I am always depressed and crying so much. I have so much anxiety, and had to get on anti-depression pills. I am constantly Naused..
I get horible migrains, i went and seen my doctor and got on a medicine for that.. And it still didnt work, so on top of taking that medicine everyday, i have to take a special migrain pill when ever I get a migrain. Which is like 3-5 times a week. Which is NOT normal at all!
Ive had vision loss.. Ive had to get glasses a few months ago..
I am really irritable.. I have bad mood swings. Like never before. I have changed so much, everyone can tell.
I have no energy to do anything. I never go out with my friends. I never want ANYONE to come over. I never like doing anything. Im just tired and exhaused.
I have totally lost my interest in sex!
I have dizziness.
I have abdominal pains like everyday. Most of the time when I am sitting on the floor reaching over.
I have chest pain.
I get dehydrated all the time. I can keep drinking and drinking water, and still be dehydrated.
And I have been having all these weird cravings.
Somtimes I get insomnia, and I have been noticing this past week, I have abnormal brusing..

And I read on another site alot of girls have had all the same symptoms!!

I am spose to go to my gyno for a check up this week, but I am calling them first thing in the morning, and telling them I want this thing out of me!!

I want to be normal again! Its so miserable the way I feel. I keep thinking there is something wrong with me. My normal doctor has sent me for a blood pregnancy test, MRI, Blood work. Everything. Everything comes up normal. And im thinking am i a diabetic or something? I know they feel sick easily, but my mother has a machine, and she tested my blood sugar and it was fine.

I really hope that taking this mirena coming out will help.

I am not in a mongumous relationship anymore, and I havent even had intercourse in a long time, so It feels pointless to have it in here anyways. I think my body needs a break!

Thank you girls for sharing your stories!!
crystal, on March 13th, 2009 at 12:27 pm Said:

i have had this for two years i have gained at least 60 pounds the reason im writeing is because im swelling bad started with ankels its exstreamly worsen i had to quit job no body know wy do you think it could be from this please write back
che, on March 15th, 2009 at 3:50 pm Said:

Hi Crystal,

Thanks for dropping by and sharing your story.

Here are some info. that I’ve read about swelling ankels, legs, edema, feet and foot sweeling :

Foot, leg, and ankle swelling is common with the following situations:

CAUSES :

Prolonged standing
Long airplane flights or automobile rides
Menstrual periods (for some women)
Pregnancy — excessive swelling may be a sign of pre-eclampsia, a serious condition sometimes called toxemia, that includes high blood pressure and swelling
Being overweight
Increased age
Injury or trauma to your ankle or foot

Swollen legs may be a sign of heart failure, kidney failure, or liver failure. In these conditions, there is too much fluid in the body.

(source:medlineplus)

I’m sure you already consulted your doctor about it. I also gained weight from Mirena, it could be that your weight contributed to your swelling ankles(because of the effect of gravity) gaining 60 lbs. is really a lot.

I hope everything is gonna be normal soon. Always consult your doctor for any medical advice or before taking any actions regarding your health.

Thank you and hope to hear from you soon.

Be strong and Stay positive!

Che
Cs, on April 20th, 2009 at 1:16 pm Said:

Had Mirena put in May 08. I have gained about 12 pounds and climbing. Seems to be a different pattern of weight gain. I also have acne and red irritated skin around my nose and mouth and on chin. Definitely have a tendency towards being depressed. I can never get enough water. No periods though. Have ocasional periods of left chect pain twinges. Also had sever pain left abdomen. Had an unltrasound - nothing. But i do have some cysyts in the right ovary. Even today feel twinges of pain in area of ovaries.
kate, on May 12th, 2009 at 12:53 am Said:

chrystal, I have had a big weight gain, and my symptoms came the longer I have had it. I am so swelled all over, and my bp has been terrible, I never had any of these prob. before mirena, and can’t help to believe that it is related to mirena. You can email me at mdkd@bigstring.com if you want to talk about this any further with me. I am considering getting this removed before I have a heart attack,. or kidney failure. I am serious! I feel like I am going down hill fast if i don’t, i am 28. and have three small kids to take raise. The dr’s blow it off and chalk it up to other things. Theyre was pain under my ribs and down my right side severe. three different dr.s and a lot of tests later, everyone said different things. and none have been the answer!!
Clara, on May 24th, 2009 at 3:40 pm Said:

I’ve had Mirena in for a couple months……My side effects: severe hair loss, no sex drive, and acne. I’m wondering if anyone out there stuck it out and had these side effects decrease over time. The hair loss is what scares me…has anyone seen this side effect decrease over time? PLEASE HELP!!!
che, on May 25th, 2009 at 12:15 am Said:

Hi CLara,

I had the same experience, hair loss, no sex drive, light bleeding for almost 2 months (see above stories) It was a horrible experience. I’m Mirena free now, no more nightmares and I feel great!! Really great!

I’m not using anything right now, just natural and combination of calendar method. My husband and I decided it this way, coz he don’t want me to be sick again from this contraceptives.

Consult your doc and you can read some more stories here about Mirena’s side effects.

Good luck and I hope it helps.

Che
Amanda Marie, on May 27th, 2009 at 11:44 am Said:

Hi,
I have read a lot of your posts and its kind of hard to believe what i am reading. I had mirena inserted about a month ago. I had it inserted during my period and it stoped my period. I have been irregualr since i had my son in Feb of 08. I have had a little spotting here and there. But nothing that i haven’t had before. One thing that is new is the rusty metal smell to my discharge, it is super gross. I thought i had a bacterial vaginosis…but i do not.
I have actually lost weight, about 3 lbs. since i have had the insertion.

I am not sure what all of your activity levels are but i am a very active person.I am 21 and I am a gymnast and a gymnastics coach. So i am in good shape.

i am going to get a follow up here soon to see if it has moved and to ask about the rusty smelling discharge, i will keep u posted.
Vee, on May 29th, 2009 at 6:52 pm Said:

Hi,

I am so thankful for all of these posts. Because until now, I thought I was going crazy. I am 24 years old and have had the Mirena in for about a 1 1/2 yrs. My husband and I thought it to be a great way of waiting to start a family, without having the cost of a co pay every month for birth control RX or for me not to have to suffer from the side effects I had experienced prior from the pill and Nuva ring. We are sad to say, sorely mistaken. As I am enlightened by all of your posts I have decided to have the Mirena removed due to the side effects I am experiencing. Like most of you, I was ill informed by my Doctor about ALL of the side effects. What I am experiencing is now ruining my daily life, to the point where I am physically and psychologically unable to work full time any more. Major Anxiety (panic attacks), depression, decreased sexual drive, sore breasts ALL THE TIME, restless sleep and severe cramping and bloating all the time have taken over my life. I use to be a fun loving carefree individual and until now had no idea what I had become or why. Before these web postings i thought I was just losing it. I would like to thank all the women who shared their stories and I hope mine continues the chain of awareness on how Mirena is not the cheap or easy contraceptive.

Thanks for reading

Vee
Fee, on May 30th, 2009 at 2:07 pm Said:

I’m 39 yrs old. After reading all of these posts I must say I am so relieved to know that I’m not alone. I thought I was going crazy or something. The insertion was extremely painful and the cramps afterwards made me feel like I was going to kill over. I’ve had on going mood swings, irritability, depression, nausea, severe acne & hair loss! My mensrual cycles have a horrible smell like I’ve never smelled before! I’m keeping it real ladies. I feel pregnant half the time and I crave salty or citrus like foods. My body has not been the same since I got the Mirena inserted 8 months ago, it has been hell! I will be going to the doctors getting this crap removed this coming week! My hormones are off the charts! It has definitely affected my family / home because of my mood swings and depression. My whole face looks a mess with all of this acne and breakouts. I’m using enough MAC makeup for two people to cover my acne! I’ve never had acne on my face like this. I have long hair and my hair is shedding like crazy, especially when I wash it I have hand fulls of hair coming out, it’s scary. Mirena should be taken off of the market. I know that we as individuals must take responsbility of our bodies, but the FDA should take in consideration that they’re approval of these methods are causing great harm to women’s bodies. Just about every BC method on the market has moderate to severe side affects. WTF!! I’m angry that I was foolish enough to have this method inserted in the first place! A cheap way to avoid pregnancy but added more health problems to my body. This was definitely a wake up call for me ladies. Thanks for sharing all your posts… I wouldn’t recommend Mirena for anyone! Thanks~
Vee, on May 31st, 2009 at 5:59 pm Said:

Hey Amanda Marie,

Most side effects that I read about on the blog happen at least 6 months to a year after having the IUD inserted. I would definitely pay attention to any irregular symptoms you may experience. Mood swings, irregular cramping and bloating. You may think that it may be due to PMS, but the symptoms for me only worsened. Please be careful and listen to what your body is saying. Hope all goes well

Vee
Clara, on June 1st, 2009 at 8:24 am Said:

I’m 26 years old, and I had my Mirena in for 2 months. I experienced severe depression, fatigue, extreme hair loss, cramping, bloating, vaginal odor, no sex drive, and suicidal thoughts (which is totally unlike me….never happened before….that’s one of the major factors in my decision to have it taken out!)

I even had a headache, fever, and chills on two occasions. I’ve never been so miserably sick in my life. I think my body was trying to have a period….but I didn’t bleed.

I had the Mirena taken out on Friday. Of course, my doctor said that my symptoms, except for the cramping, had nothing to do with the Mirena. I felt like an idiot, but I told her I didn’t care what the medical opinion is….I just had to listen to my body.

By Saturday afternoon, I noticed that I felt much better. I went to the bathroom and found that I had gotten my period. I was never so happy to see that!

My mood has changed. My two months of constant PMS is over! I woke up this morning refreshed, instead of wanting to crawl back in bed for the whole day. And I even had a sex dream….which hasn’t happened since I got the Mirena in. I’m relieved that maybe my sex drive is back. I never had the best sex drive, but I missed what I had once it was gone.

I just wanted to thank everyone for the comments. It helped me to make my decision. And I’m glad I got the Mirena out!

Clara

P.S. - I will have to post again later when I see what happens with my hair.
Vee, on June 1st, 2009 at 6:45 pm Said:

Clara,

Was the removal painful ? I am going tomorrow to get it removed and I am scared sh*tless. The insertion was very painful. Any moral support from anyone who has had it removed will be much appreciated.

Thanks

Vee
Clara, on June 1st, 2009 at 8:10 pm Said:

The removal, for me, was less painful than the insertion. It wasn’t so bad. It actually went pretty quickly, and I almost asked ‘is it out already?’ The worst part is that stupid thing they stick in you….what’s that called, a speculum? I did take a couple Tylenol about half an hour before I went in for the appointment….I think that helped. Good luck…..well worth getting it out though…..I’m so glad I did!
che, on June 1st, 2009 at 11:50 pm Said:

Hello guys,

Thanks for sharing your experience/s with Mirena. I’m Mirena free now, and I really feel great!! With Mirena, my hair was falling like I can make noodles out of it!! I’m glad that I trusted what my body was saying!!!

The removal wasn’t bad as insertion. Clara is right the speculum, hurt a bit but that was it, your not gonna feel that it’s out already. I also took Tylenol before and after the removal.

I bled after the Mirena was taken out like I had a period,(one week I think) then one month with no period and after one month my cycle came back.

Good luck girls and hope to hear from you soon!

Che
Vee, on June 2nd, 2009 at 9:20 pm Said:

Hey ladies!!

So I had the Mirena removed today. I was very anxious as the insertion was very painful. so I went did it and have been happily free from Mirena for about 9 hours! I feel so awesome!! It was not as bad as the insertion. My bloating has gone down alot, my breasts are not sore. It’s crazy that in 9 hours you can start feeling the benefits from the removal. I’m giving my body a break. The feeling of relief that flooded over me right after the removal was priceless! Screw Mirena!! It’s the devil! Thank you for all of your support ladies!

Vee
whittney, on July 14th, 2009 at 5:38 pm Said:

Hi everyone!

I had my mirena put in in January of this year. Its been about 7 months. I had it put in about a year after I gave birth to my son after I had tried nuva ring, which was my first birth control.

The insertion wasn’t that bad for me. It hurt but not horribly. I bled nonstop for about 2 months I believe. Then it was a small period and now I haven’t had one in maybe 2 months.

This past month has been hell. It usually takes sleep medicine to get me to sleep but I have been able to fall into a deep sleep within 5 or 10 minutes! So not me. And I’ve had horrible migraines way too often. I have gained 25 punds back in the past month and I am a health concious person. My stomach has also swollen beyong belief. I look 4 months pregnant!

My lower abdominal pain started this past week and I began to get worried. I finally freaked being afraid that I was pregnant or had a cyst or the mirena got loose somewhere bcause we couldn’t find the strings. I was in the emergency room for 6 hours today. Had a pelvic exam and trans vaginal ultrasound (can I say catheters are absolutely evil!) The mirena was still in place, I wasn’t pregnant, but I had an over than average sized cyst on my right ovary.

I now am going to the gyno to get the exact details of it. I’m now thinking of removing the mirena. Does anyone know any other birth controls that you’d reccommend? Can the bloating really go down that quickly? Can these side effects show up 6 months after insertion like mine did? Is it worth it to get it out?
Id appreciate your replies! Thanks so much.
Amanda, on July 23rd, 2009 at 7:04 pm Said:

I had Mirena put in Feb. 05 after having our third child. Had minimal cramping for a few days, nothing more than regular menstral cramps. I stopped getting my period after about 4 months or so, they became light, spotty and then completely stopped. Everything went “normal” for me after having it in. I didn’t realize until recently that some problems I’ve had were due to the IUD. I’ve had weight gain, but I’ve always been a big girl and just thought I needed to really watch what I ate, didn’t help much. I’ve had pretty bad hair loss, which I thought was hereditary. I’ve always had fine, thin hair, but this was terrible. I changed shampoos, tried all sorts of things, then just decided I can’t do much about it and gave up worrying too much about it. I’ve had extremely low libido, my husband has had a complex thinking he’s the reason I don’t want to “be” with him. After reading everything I could find on Mirena lately we’ve realized that it all makes sense now. Hair loss, weight gain, low libido all have one thing in common-Mirena. I’ve had a great experience with it, other than those side effects. No periods, no cramping, no acne. I’ve always had backpain because of an extra large chest, so I wouldn’t know if it was due to the IUD. I had mine removed this past week because we are wanting to add another bundle of joy to our household. Hopefully those symptoms will go away after a few weeks of having it out. All in all, I would have to say I would think about having another one (IUD) after this baby, but I will be more concious about how it affects me now. I am sorry that yall had problems with them like you did and I hope you can find something that works for you.
chervantis lee, on August 9th, 2009 at 2:26 pm Said:

im soo glad to see that i wasnt the only one with this feeling . now i can get red of the this awful thing thats good in some ways but dreadful in others.
Cindy, on August 12th, 2009 at 8:15 pm Said:

Never recommend it to any friend!!!!!

NEVER!!! EVER!!!

It’s truly a MONSTER, my life was totally ruined until I get it taken out. First month, I got so much pain, half month of bleeding; 2nd month, my period last for 21 days (used to be only 3 days); after 10 days of clean feeling, was expecting it get improved, however the 3rd month and 4th month never stop…can you imagine wearing maxi pad or whatever pad for 60 days and maybe forever? I decided to take this monster out and get my life back - at least back to normal.

NEVER, EVER use this product, it’s the worst experince I’ve ever had. Truly it comes to birth-control for me, however in a totally different way from what I expected!

So NEVER, NEVER take this risk to ruin your life!!!
Vanessa, on August 12th, 2009 at 9:40 pm Said:

Hello ladies! I am a mother of three young children. I didn’t want more right away, but didn’t want to permanently fix myself so I opted for the Mirena. Although it’s done a good job of keeping me pregnancy-free, the side effects are so not worth it. I now suffer from severe acne (never did before, not even as a teen), my muscles and joints ache (I’m only 28!), and I’ve gained close to 30 pounds (I run at least 3 miles 3 times a week)! I’m always tired now and I have severe mood swings. I told myself I would give my body a year to get used to it. If things didn’t improve then I would have it removed. That year has come and gone, and it’s gotten WORSE! I’m so over the Mirena! After reading all the posts on this site, I’m definitely going to make an appointment tomorrow to have it removed. Hopefully my body recovers from this trauma soon after. Thanks to all the ladies who posted comments for helping me make my decision!
Denisha, on August 16th, 2009 at 3:38 am Said:

Hello Ladies. You know God will give you what you need when you need it & it really has in my situation. I had Mirena inserted in August after my doctor recommended it. I was happy to hear about a device to help stop preganacy b/c my husband & I already have two GREAT daughters & I have been laid off since Decemeber so another child is NOT in the cards. I have noticed that my breat feel like I am ENGORGED all the time to wear I have to wear a sports bra ALL THE TIME to jeep them in one place. I could not understand why. THen, I have been experiencing mood swings, joint pain even more than when I had my auto accident last October, my appitite has increased to where I am eating just to be eating & think about food all of the time! So, last night god said (I truely believe) that it was the Mirena & to check it out online & WOW, what a eyeopenier. I can understand how you all fel but am very still skeptical. Isn’t every woman different? I do want to see if I feel different in a monthor too. I have my check up on next week to see but if anyone has any suggestions or just wants to share, please email me at dseals3@marykay.com. I really want to kknow how some of you delt with the sore tender breasts.
Dessirrea, on August 19th, 2009 at 8:08 pm Said:

Hello Ladies!!!
Where do I begin?? I am a mother of 2 little boys and I had Mirena inserted 2 months after my 2nd. I have been happy with it until a couple of months ago. I’ve been having really strong pain on my right side where my pelvis is (as if the Mirena is coming through or something). I also have pain going from my hip down to my knee and also lower back pain. It only happens to the right side but it is EXCRUCIATING!! I need to go to the dr to get it checked out but when I talked to the nurse over the phone she told me to wait 3-4 days and see how I feel and if I still have the pain come back. Well of course by then, there is no pain.
Also, after my periods I have (SORRY really embarrassing) this funky odor with white discharge. My fiance keeps pushing me to get it out so I don’t screw my body up. I am kinda stuck as to whether
1. keep the Mirena in, no extra babies, deal with the pain
2. get it out and have to find another BC method, possible extra babies
If anyone could give me any advice, I’d greatly appreciate it.
Thank You, Thank You in advanced!!!!
Dessirrea, on August 19th, 2009 at 8:12 pm Said:

Cindy, OMG I am right there with you!!! My period these last 3 months have been 2 weeks long. So I am guessing it is time to get this “MONSTER” (as you put it) out!!!
I thought I was doing something wrong. Well I know now!! Thank You
Ashley, on August 21st, 2009 at 5:49 pm Said:

Hi i’m 24 and have two kids ( 5yrs and 9 mos) I had Mirena put in on Jan 13,09. the only problems I had was an fishy ordor smell last month July 09. I had an fungus infection. I had to take some pills twice aday for seven days much better now. BUT im still having an light pink discharge plus I just and my FIRST migraine this week for 6hrs stright. Now the only problem I’m having is a sharp pains in the back of my head. WHAT TO DO i’m really scared………………
che, on August 22nd, 2009 at 4:51 am Said:

Hello guys,

Thanks for sharing your experiences with MIRENA.

Dessirea, if you have time you can read (above my experience iwth MIRENA, because I bled more than one month, but yeah that’s the side effects of Mirena, and every contraceptive has some side effects,MIRENA doesn’t fit to all.

I’m Mirena free now and I’m happy. MIRENA really ruined my body.

Ashley: When I had MIRENA- my discharges smelled like a RUSTY METAL!!@# I experienced HAIR LOSS, WEIGHT GAIN,JOINTS PAIN. I thought I was crazy. Try not to panic I can only advice you that if you cannot take it anymore ask your Doc to take it out.

We desrve something else and beter. Don’t let MIRENA ruin your body. I’ve been there and it was horrible.

Good luck and be strong.

Che
Lisa, on August 25th, 2009 at 1:38 pm Said:

Just wanted to share my experience w/ the Mirena. I got it last July and had it removed yesterday! It has defiantly been a nightmare for me. Starting in Sept.08 I start with extreme anxiety which brought on the heart palpitations which lead to depression. I absolutely thought I was going to have a heart attack. I started seen a Cardiologist and received numerous test my heart is fine thank goodness, after that I started hurting in my stomach, constipation also seen a gastologist to also find that there was nothing wrong there. I’ve had ever kind of blood work possible to find the cure to my problem. The mood swings, depression, anxiety, weight gain (10 lbs.) within a yr.. It’s been one thing after another the only thing left to do was have the Mirena removed to get my body, emotions back to normal. I’m hoping for a speed recovery form this.. I have read ever blog I can find about the Mirena and it seems that everyone has all or the some symptoms. I hope this helps!!
Aly, on August 26th, 2009 at 6:45 pm Said:

As sorry as I am to read all of your horrible stories, I feel better knowing I’m not alone. I had my Mirena in for only four weeks and couldn’t take it. I bled every day and was depressed/anxious. Obviously it affected my sex life. My husband didn’t really understand. It caused a LOT of stress. I’ve had it out for six days now and I’m still bleeding. I’m so hoping that it stops soon. My husband still doesn’t understand. I’ve had it removed but am still miserable and it’s still causing me stress in my marriage. Who would think a birth control option could cause tears and stress?
Caroline, on August 27th, 2009 at 4:26 pm Said:

Hiya Girlies
Mirena well i had it fitted 9 weeks ago! Was told after having a scan i had fibroids, having the wonderful Mirena fitted would shrink the lining of the womb - reduce the fibroids - NO more awful painful periods Woooop - Bobs your uncle Well i bled from having it fitted to a few day before my 6 week check up, had four days blood free to starting day after check up, so bled again since, 3 weeks solid so all in all i have bled for 9 weeks bar four days! Up all last night with agonising pain phoned Dr this morning went up this afternoon, had further internal , she couldnt feel the threads, then she had a look inside and she couldnt see the threads - So now going for a scan to find the locaion of the coil, she thinks its went further up into womb and attatched itself the the womb wall, pain is like labour pains this is because she said with the bleeding your uterus contracts.. I have ibs thats been much worse she explained that to because the uterus is contracting it makes ibs worse, i suffered panic attacks, agoraphobia and ptsd and i had got over it all but two weeks ago i had a panic attack and have had anxiety feelings constant, i dont want to go back to feeling like that - doing so well After reading everyones stories an the symptoms you have all experienced i dont feel that its just me thinking im imagining or just one of the unlucky ones to have side affecs So no waiting for R to book emergency scan which will hopefully be soon and i will have to have it removed if it has gone further up, lying in bed with hot bottle on tummy could cry pain is awful, at least when in labour you know the pain will go after you have the baby but for now will need to suffer till i get this scan and then they will decide on how to remove it wether it be forceps or an operation Grrrrr
Having said all this i was so excited about having it fitted it was going to resolve my heavy periods pain etc so now going to be back to square one! Hope your all well and got things sorted out nothing worse than syffering think women suffer enough just by having periods HUH!
Take Care all

Caroline.x.
Rebeccah, on August 29th, 2009 at 7:23 pm Said:

Hi everyone….
I had Mirena put in April of 2008. 5 months after the birth of my second child. After that all heck broke loose. I was losing my baby weight at a great rate…until mirena. Then the acne all over, always tried, yet can’t fall asleep. I am hungry all the time, and feel like I got beat up. I went a few months after implantion I went to the doc and told her…she said I am just getting older and my body is changing, and made me feel like I was stupied. Ha, I have wondered for so long waht was hte matter with me and well nothing is, it is mirena cause it. Thanks so much for this site if it wasn’t for all you writing something i would still be suffering Now I am getting it out on tuesday. and my husband can get fixed…lol. Thanks again….good luck everyone
julie, on September 1st, 2009 at 9:12 am Said:

Oh my God, just found this site and i am amazed that so many have had similar side effects from this horrible coil. Had mine fitted on 5th August and removed on 27th, definitely worst than labour pains. The doctor said my body was rejecting it. So happy its out, what a massive relieve.
che, on September 1st, 2009 at 1:34 pm Said:

HELLO LADIES,

Thanks once again for dropping by and for sharing all your experiences with MIRENA.

Cheers to all who had the MIRENA taken out!!! MIRENA name sounds good, but too much side effects that made me paranoid. I’m so much happy that I am free from any kind of contraceptives . Natural conraceptive works good to me and my husband is happy about it.

BE FREE FROM MIRENA and you can SMILE again like before…

Be strong ladies.

Che
Jodye, on September 21st, 2009 at 10:43 am Said:

Hi,
I found this site and was reading some of the posts. I have had the mirena in since June 2009. Since then I have not really had a period. It has been like just one day, which my dr. said that was normal. I have gained alot of weight with the mirena and my hair falls out all the time. I have lost most of my sex drive and my husband and I fight because of it. I have also heard that with the mirena you can get pregnant and it kills the embryo once it is actually formed. I am nervous and scared about getting pregnant and it killing the embryo. I have a 4 month old so I dont want to get pregnant but would rather get pregnant and keep it then my IUD killing the embryo once it is formed. Will you please help me!! I need some advice on taking it out or keeping it in.
che, on September 24th, 2009 at 2:01 pm Said:

Hi Jodye,

Thanks for dropping by here. I’ve been there and I know what you feel right now. When I decided to took the MIRENA out, I felt good, really good. I had the same side effects and I won’t recommend MIRENA to anybvody!!!

It’s a personal decision Jodye, MIRENA changed me a lot. MIRENA doesn’t fit to all, and may be other contraceptive works for you, or natural contraceptive.

If you wanna be back to normal like you used to be. Take MIRENA out of your system, but like what I’ve said it’s a personal decision and I can only speak from my experienced.

Have a nice day and hope it helps a bit.

Take care,

Che
Jodye, on September 26th, 2009 at 11:40 am Said:

Yes it actually helps alot! I am going to the first part of October. I have an appointment to get it out. I thought it would be good but now I have decided that it has ruined my life and I do NOT recommend it to anyone! I want my old self back and I am sure that my husband does too. Thank you for your help and I am going to get it out and just hope I don’t get pregnant again…haha! Thank you all for your posts and this site has really helped me out!
che, on September 27th, 2009 at 12:08 am Said:

Hello Jodye,

Great that you’ve decided to do that, I’m really 1010% sure that you will feel better , lighter your life will be back to normal,including your relationship with your husband. MIRENA is not only pain in the @#$ but also pain in our@#$@ hehehe. Be careful not to be preggy soon hehehe

Thanks one again for sharing your experience with MIRENA.

P.S. The removal isn’t that bad, only the speculum ( the thing that use to open the vagina) is a bit uncomfortable. Good luck!

Che

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