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Had my Mirena IUD removed
Had my Mirena IUD removed
by Wisegirl, Mar 08, 2007 12:00AM
Had it removed 4 weeks ago exactly due to terrible problems from it. I wont post my story unless you want to know. Last week I had pain on my left ovary and today pain on my right. Its almost like a pinching feeling. Leads me to believe it (they) are cysts. When I normally am not on BC I have 28 day cycle. But not sure what to think since just having the IUD removed. Anyone have experience with this ?
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I had the mirena for 4.5 yrs. Once I had it removed I did not have a period for 3 months and like you I had pinching etc...They performed a scan and no cysts found...
I did some internet research and came across forums of women who were having the same issues as me ! Some were more severe and they needed depression medications (which btw werent working). I decided that I needed to get this removed ASAP. I called the dr and 2 days later it was removed on 2/8/07. Removal was not painful at all. When the dr questioned me on why I wanted the device removed I told him the story. Do you know what he said to me ? That these are not side effects of the Mirena. BULLSH.IT !! I see it as my body did everything it could to fight off this foreign object inside of me. That day he asked me when the last time i had an infection and I told him just on Monday that I was itching. So he took a culture and what a surprise I had a bacterial infection !! He told me once again that it was from my soap and not the IUD. Gave me a prescription for some vaginal gel. Which I didnt use and guess what ?? The itching and irriatation were gone ! 2 days later my mood returned to normal. I have not had clumps of hair come out in my hands. I can sleep 6-8 hours and feel great ! I can go from the living room to the kitchen and remember why I was going there ! 11 days after removal my sex drive returned full force ! DH is very happy. I am still dealing with the acne but its slowly going away. It seems to be like a cystic acne.
I really can't believe all these bad experiences, I had mine removed to try for a baby and I want it back again as soon as I have had a baby. before the mirena my little sis had bled for 18mths continuously she has pcos. After 8 weeks with the mirena, nothing..she thibnks its a miracle. I guess we are lucky.Baby dust to ya xx
I will still endorse it as I know far more with good experiences than bad. No one form works for everyone, it is always hit and miss.
Andrea
Andrea
Do a search on Mirena IUD forums and you will be surprised at the amount of women that are enduring these effects. Some way worse than mine.
It is extremely common for women to have hormone disruptions that can cause every one of your symptoms. If you believe strongly that something is the cause, and you take that thing away, 99% of the time the symptoms will clear up, too.
I'm not going to say its impossible, b/c very few things in life are impossible. But unlikely. Lets say that.
Mirena does have minute amounts of hormones that act locally on the uterine lining. And the patch is still in use, and is safe and effective if used in properly selected patients. It is very different than Mirena, it is a systemically absorbed hormone. You can't compare the two.
If you believe the Mirena is the cause of all your symptoms, then its a good thing you got rid of it. What are you going to use instead?
I didnt compare Mirena with the patch. What I said was remember they thought the patch was "safe" too. Nothing was said in 2001 that there was an increased chance of blood clots. Not just an increase but double the chance. I know because I was on it the day it hit the shelves. Its still my preffered method but since I am almost 35 I am hesitant to go back on it. I know they are in the works of another patch. Its in clinical testing.
Nothing was said about these side effects of the Mirena but ironically if you call Berlex 1-888-237-5394 they will tell you they are known side effects. I called their adverse reaction line and thats how I found out they were indeed side effects and my dr didnt even know about them.
Back in 1996(ish) there was a class action lawsuit against Norplant for playing down such side effects as irregular menstrual bleeding, nausea, headaches and depression. People were not adequately warned of the extent of these side effects.
So the bottom line is I will continue to the best of my ability to tell my story to try and stop women from getting this device. If I stop 1 than than I win.
Mirena is a safe and effective contraceptive device used by hundreds of thousands of women. It even being used globally now to help prevent unwanted pregnancies in disadvantaged nations. Far more women are harmed, or even die, as a result of pregnancy than experience some hair loss, depression, menstrual irregularities, or acne from a very widely used and effective device.
Even placebos can give people "side effects". I'm not saying its impossible that you are having some minor effects. But the Mirena acts LOCALLY, not SYSTEMICALLY. Remember my analogy of the silicone breast implants? Remember the tearful testimony before Congress of all the women irreparably "harmed" by them? As I said, furthur studies show this had no basis in fact. Group hysteria and suggestibility was responsible for a great deal of those symptoms. Yet people profited from the lawsuits. They sure as heck didn't give the money back, did they?
The fact that a couple hundred women are starting a class action suit is testimony only to our countries insatiable appetite for lawsuits. Warn women away from this effective BC device, and I hope that they don't subsequently become harmed from using a systemic hormone, or have complications from an unwanted pregnancy. Or choose to have an abortion.
Good for you for having it removed if you feel uncomfortable with it. We are only responsible for our own actions.
BTW, you didn't answer. What will you be substituting for BC now? I could share my copper 7 horror story, but I recognize that that was only MY experience, and does not necessary lead to the assumption no one should use it. Its a good method too, despite what happened to me.
As for "Far more women are harmed, or even die, as a result of pregnancy ..... "
Not in this day and age.
Would you ever take a Tylenol if you were prominently warned that you could die? People take them every day. Yet some die.
You honestly believe that pregnancy carries little or no risk to health? It does; even "in this day and age". I work in Labor and Delivery, and care for the complications every day. I've even seen a death. In this day and age. And that's in the US. Lets not talk about Africa or other under developed nations.
Do what you want. But don't hurl your scare tactics at others. The "side effects" are VERY UNCOMMON. If they were devastating millions as they are you, Mirena would be off the market in a heartbeat.
As I SAID, if someone believes it isn't right for them, they can remove it. Simple as that.
I never said your problems weren't a "big deal". Obviously, you feel very affected by them. But THE VAST MAJORITY of women who use Mirena don't have them, or have them to a very minor degree.
Just like most people who take Tylenol don't die or have liver failure. Its still a safe drug, and no one goes around screaming for people to avoid it. It has improved countless lives.
I can see this will go nowhere but downhill. You feel a great need to "win" this argument. I'll wait and see if you remain free of the devastating depression, hair loss, ovarian cysts, and loss of libido. I have most of those things too, and I'm not even on BC.
Oh, and I bet you get pregnant within 6 months. Bet you anything. I know 2 other women who didn't like their forms of BC. They quit, and used "natural" methods. They were pregnant almost immediately. Often times, there is an occult desire to conceive again, and some women need to feel it was "out of their control"--they couldn't use effective BC. So it doesn't look like they chose to conceive again.
You "win". I won't answer again. I'll wait and see the BFP post.
Each to their own but I wouldn't like people to be scared of trying it because they read some negative feedback.
I have first hand experience of the placebo effect as I was part of a clinical trial and unknown to me I had a placebo. Some other people in my group had the real thing and started to feel ill. All of a sudden so did I. To me it was very real, I didn't think that I had a placebo. Once I was told and shown the paperwork my symptoms went.It is therefore very possible to feel symptoms just because others feel them.
You seem like a fairly intelligent person and you shouldn't always belive everything you are told by medical professionals. They are only instructed by the pharmacutical companies.
Do your research !
Your right you aren't going anywhere with this argument because it wasn't you. I will continue to tell my story in hopes that women will be smart enough to do all the research. Not just want their dr's tell them.
Research - NOT FROM PHARMACUTICAL COMPANIES NOT FROM BERLEX - INDEPENDANT STUDIES FROM REAL WOMEN.
The Mirena IUS is like many other types of Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices (IUCD's) in that it is fitted by a doctor and remains in the womb for a fixed amount of time, after which it must be changed. It is different, however, in that it is much more effective than usual IUCD's and avoids many of the side effects that put women off this choice of contraception.
How Effective is the Contraception?
1000 women used the Mirena IUS for a year, only one fell pregnant. This compares with 10 for the normal IUCD, 20 for the Pill and 10-15 for the injection (Depo Provera). This is comparable to the effectiveness of sterilisation.
Mirena acts as a contraceptive in two ways: it makes the mucus at the neck of the womb (the cervix) much thicker, preventing sperm from getting through and it also makes the lining of the womb extremely thin, stopping implantation. In some women it prevents egg release (ovulation).
A. Side effects with Mirena are most common during the first three months after insertion and decrease over time.
SIDE EFFECTS AT 3 MONTHS AT 5 YEARS
Lower abdominal pain (cramping) 10.5% 2.0%
Acne or other skin problems 3.5% 1.8%
Back pain 3.1% 1.0%
Breast tenderness 3.1% 1.0%
Headache 2.8% 1.6%
Mood changes 2.5% Less than 1.0%
Percentage of women reporting side effects during the first 3 months and fifth year of use.
CLINICAL STUDIES BY WOMENS HEALTH - INDEPENDANT
Ovarian Cysts: Progestagen hormones increase the chance of benign, simple ovarian cysts. This is more common with the higher hormone levels associated with the pill. Overall the risk is about 3 times higher with the pill (1.2% in IUS Mirena users versus 0.4% normally). These cysts most often do not require any treatment and resolve on their own over 2-3 months. It is usual to arrange follow-up ultrasound scans over this time if they do occur.
Hormonal Problems: Although the IUS delivers its hormone directly to the lining of the womb, it does lead to a slight increase in progesterone levels in the blood stream. The levels are much lower than that found with the pill and usually don't lead to side effects.In our study we found that when they do occur, they are mild and only last up to 4-6 weeks
With small to moderate size fibroids, it is quite reasonable to use the IUS and our study has found that fibroids are less common in women who use the Mirena. A further paper has found that in a sample of 5 women studied, a Mirena actually reduced the size of their fibroids.
All meds have side effects, these side effects do not out way the benefits in my opinion. It is about personal choice .
It is not worth it.
So, I bleed for a month and had the worst pinching cramps I have ever had. Of course we didn't have sex for a month because I was so scared that it would hurt me even more; not to mention all the bleeding. My partner was super supportive through all of this, Thank Goodness.
My worst fears came true. I gained weight, my moods have been rollarcoasting, I lost my sex drive and my skin is a mess. My periods are shorter; but the PMS has been terrible. I have never had severe cramps and with the IUD I can barely stand up with my PMS cramps.
Of course I stayed in contact with my doctor and he did say that all of most of theses things were normal and would subside. For me personally, the side effects completely outweigh the benefits. I talked to my partner and he said that he had noticed all of these things but had hoped that they would subside and hadn't said anything because he didn't want to upset me further.
I am having it taken out this week as soon as they can get me in. I will be going back to the natural method. I'm 33 and no hormonal birth control has ever been pleasant for me. I thought this would be different because of the local release of hormone; but it's been aweful for me.
It's not that I wouldn't recommend the Mirena; because I do know a lot of women that love it. BUT, if you are someone that has had trouble with many other types hormonal birth control; I would caution you against it.
I must say that you sound like you work for the company.
Also the information given out by the Dr.s and provided by the manufacturer does not list the side effects.
How is a person supposed to make an educated choice if they are not given the information up front?
Other than the post insertion bleed I have found this particular contraceptive the best I have used.
Rach x
I was frustrated that joint pain wasn't listed as one of the side effects, when a simple search on the internet revealed that numberous women had experienced it. I probably would have tried it anyway, but now will look into other options. I appreciate forums like this were you can relate to other women to know you are not alone.
Let us know if the symptoms resolved after the Mirena! I just had mine removed today as we are going to TTC #3. I really loved it after the first couple of months, but I had similar bad experiences on the Pill, so I know how it goes. I may get another one someday, or I may get my tubes tied as I'm a c-sect. I hope you are feeling better and would love to hear if it all subsides and stays gone! I think I did read about the fever / infection thing in the first days after placement. Bummer! Cause when it works right it's gooooood! Best of luck to you and your little ones! Glad to know that there's still time for the occasional internet posting when you have 4 kids. I'm a little nervous about having three, but we're having so much fun with the first 2 we just can't stop yet!
Best of luck to you and your family!
I have had my mirena for 3 years now. It hurt going in but was great after about 6 months not having periods and just occassional light spotting. I got a yeast infection about 8 months ago. It cleared with diflucan. I got another one in a month. I thought it was because my boyfriend and I were dating long distance and seeing each other once a month. After we broke up I still kept getting a yeast infection plus I had starting having a very light period every 3 weeks. My doctor cultured me twice for yeast because I complained although she couldnt see anything. They both came back positive for yeast but the lab forgot to culture them both times. I have another yeast infection for the 8 month in a row and have had to take meds each time only to have it come back. I am done. I am calling tomorrow to take it out. The miren was great for over 2 yrs but is not working now.
Its a lose lose situation. Continued repeated pregnancy or grin and bear it.
No one's good experience can invalidate someone else's genuine bad experience.
We just have to do our research and make the choice that seems appropriate at the time.
Since then I could never get back to my normal self. My hormones never seemed to go back to normal, my periods were irregular, my skin broke out all the time, no matter how strict of a diet I was on, the weight kept piling on, night sweats, hot flashes, etc. I just knew somewhere in my gut, something was not right. I was even considering flying cross country to a hormone specialist.
I then got the Paraguard IUD (the copper one). No problems until I had my checkup to make sure it was still in the correct location. It was but as the NP was finishing up, I casually asked her about some infrequent abdominal pains I was having. I thought it was constipation or irritable bowel disease. She ordered an abdominal and pelvic ultrasound just to double check it wasn't ovary related. From what I was told, the ultrasound tech came out of the room looking a deer caught in headlights and immediately got the NP. I had a cyst on my right ovary 9X16cm (the size of a mango) and a 4cm one on my left ovary. Immediately I had blood work done for tumor markers. My CA125, which determines ovarian cancer, came back 1400! The normal is under 50. I had a MRI done and those results showed not 1 but 3 cysts, all larger than my uterus.
I have just had a full hysterorectomy including the removal of my appendice and two 2 lesions on my belly button removed. I have been diagnosised with Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer and start 6 treatment of chemotherapy on Aug. 21st.
Of course with this diagnosis, I've been racking my brain, how could this have been caused? And then it hit me. I was fine until I had this truly damned thing put in me. From the time of my question to the NP until now, it has been 7 weeks. I initially had the Mirena inserted late March and removed beginning of April. Yes, I do know this can cause ovarian cysts, but this is the extreme. The drug insert and advertisment, make it sound like they are no big deal and they'll go away own their own within 2 to 3 months. Guess what---withing 2 to 3 months, my cysts have developed into cancer.
To everyone who has had problems, get the CA125 test done now! I don't want anyone going through this terrible hell.
I'm 38 and recently had two experiences where I easily could have died. These experiences make me high risk should I be fortunate enough to ever get pregnant and have a child, which I was hoping to be able to do before 40 and since I've finally found my guy! Right now, though, because of my health condition, I am forbidden from both (beoming pregnant and bearing a child).
I went to a specialist today, and he recommended Mirena. My heart sank, because it did not sound like a good option despite the heart-felt "sell" I was given. I'm sure it works for many, many women, but my instinct is saying not to use it. My options are NONE right now. I feel sorry for my boyfriend, but nothing is worth sacrificing your health.
We only have one body for our mind and soul to live. Thank you for helping ot confirm my thoughts on this product. I am going to focus on healing my current health situation and I believe everything else will naturally fall into place. Blessings to you.
I find it amazing that a lot of the doctors claim that Mirena does not have these side effects. Mine did the same thing. Mirena can cause hair loss weight gain and cysts!
Please ladies call the hotline and report ALL your side effects ASAP no matter how trivial. If enough women do it maybe they will launch another study into this IUD.
The number is: 1-888-842-2937
I am scheduled to have my IUD removed on Sept. 7th so we can begin ttc for #3, not sure what we'll do for bc after but I would definitely consider an IUD again. I just wanted to offer my 2 cents as someone who has had luck with the Mirena. I'm sorry so many people have had such horrible side affects and I hope there's something out there that works better for y'all.
I am really hoping the removal will help my depression, I would rather give this a go and return to my heavy periods, than go on to anti-depressants.
I haven't experienced any probs with weight gain or acne but have had yeast infections.
Each to their own. I know 3 other people with Mirena, 1 is on anti-depressants and the other 2 are having no probs (as far as I know - unfortunately, depression can be a taboo subject in some circles).
Thanks gothique for the hotline phone number - I will give them a call.
now i have had the bad bleeding at the start,have had my period for 3 months very lite but how long do you want that for ,well still am waiting for them to stop im waiting one more months as it will strip the linning of the uterus then i may never bleed ?
So, at my wit's end, I started looking into other methods of contraception. I hate condoms (so does my partner and we're not at risk for STDs) and diaphragms seemed way too messy and non-spontaneous. OCPs weren't working, and it seemed like a number of the women I'd been seeing in clinic were rejoicing in their use of Depo-Provera. So I started to look into that and other forms of progesterone-only contraception.
Now, I'm only 23 and am nulliparous (no babies or pregnancies) and I'd heard all the stories about the Dakron shield so I never even considered getting an IUD. But then I heard about the Mirena from some of the patients I've been seeing (I'm a Medical student) and I talked to my mom about back when she had an IUD (mid to late '80s) and she said she loved hers, so I put some more thought into it.
I ended up deciding against implanon and depo-provera for both convenience and for the very same side effects you are all mentioning. Thing is, implanon and depo are the same hormone that you get in the mini-pill and the Mirena (progesterone) which is a naturally-occurring hormone that women release during the 2nd half of their menstrual cycle. When given as contraception, the idea is to atrophy the endometrial lining and permanently keep the woman in the "luteal phase" of her menstrual cycle during which certain changes happen to the cervical mucus, etc to prevent conception (because your body assumes it has already occcurred just after ovulation).
Mini-pill, depo-provera, and implanon therefore can cause all of the same side effects you are describing, which incidentally are a lot similar to the symptoms of PMS or pre-menstrual dysphoric dysorder (PMDD). Makes sense, because it's all caused by progesterone.
Hypothetically, however, delivery of progesterone by Mirena is localized to the uterus and adnexa (fallopian tubes, ovaries, etc) so the side effects SHOULD be less severe or less frequently encountered than with the other progesterone-only methods. However, if you already know that you have bad side effects from implanon, Depo-Provera, or the mini-pill chances are you'll experience the same things with the Mirena.
Interestingly, though, one of the main indications (reasons) for placement of the Mirena is "abnormal uterine bleeding" i.e. menorrhagia or excessively heavy periods. I have personally seen a number of women who have fibroids or endometriosis or endometrial polyps who before their IUD insertion have had massive amounts of bleeding, and within a few months have come back in like they're walking on air because they're in less pain and have less bleeding then they've ever had before.
Of course, there are plenty of testaments to the contrary in this forum.
I'll be interested to see which side of the coin I come out on, but I'm certainly hopeful.
Oh, as far as insertion: I had a pretty bad vasovagal response (i.e. sweating, nausea, dizziness) from the pain of insertion but that calmed down within about 10 minutes. The pain at insertion was sharp, crampy, and about an 8/10 on the pain scale and is easily the most painful thing I've ever done voluntarily (I'm jealous: Mom said they sedated her when they put hers in!) Vasovagal responses are somewhat common with stimulation of the cervix/uterus though so I was kind of expecting it. I've been cramping a little since then but after taking 800mg Advil (ibuprofen) it's down to about a 2 out of 10 on the pain scale from about a solid 5 after insertion. We're now about 2 hours post insertion.
I'm on my period so I'm spotting and probably won't know if it's due to the period or to the IUD for a few days. . .
I'll keep you updated!
Given the wide range of s/s and the varied time involving disappearance of said symptoms (some claiming within hours, others weeks, still others months), I am still not convinced that Mirena is the sole cause. There are a multitude of things that could be responsible, including stress, thyroid issues, PP timing, even some forms of psychosomatic disorders.
Do what works for you, if you hate it get it removed. If suddenly your ailments are "cured' good for you. If my husband hadn't gotten a vasectomy, I would have gotten another one placed following the birth of my third child. I had a great experience with it.
http://www.contracept.info/iud-mirena.php
If you go to this site you can read the pamphlet that is given to the docs from Mirena with patient information. There are alot of symptoms on there that I wasn't aware of until after they started happening. Good luck to you all. Take care!
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/100001706.html
I have PCOS and 5 weeks ago, ceased my BCPs (Loestrin) after 10 years due to severe migraines that I've suffered since childhood. 3 weeks ago, i had merina inserted
So far I like it - migraines are gone, don't have to think about the pill, cramping was minor. I have had my period for 2 weeks now, and I'm normally a 2-3 day light flow person. I realize that this prolonged and regular bleeding, and acne (which I've always had but it's now worse) is normal; however, I have been insufferably irritable and have alot of trouble focusing. I can't seem confortable in my own skin - very much the same as when I had occasional PMS, but it's been for 2 weeks. It seems like it's hormone related and I'm going through an adjustment. This started about 2 weeks ago, several weeks after being off the pill. Anyone out there experience this? If so, do these mood changes subside after awhile? I'm willing to stick it out until i adjust, but if it appears that these types of side effects are permanent, I no longer will need Mirena because I'll be all alone! :)
Thanks!
I am doing great. After day 1, as posted, I spent 2 days on 400 mg ibuprofen every 6 hours, then went off it completely on day 4 post-insertion. As of now I only have a mild baseline level of cramping (like a 1 out of 10) which is already an improvement on how things were for the past 3 months I was off oral contraceptives. The bleeding has stopped completely, putting my last menstrual period length at 8 days (not awful, relatively speaking). I've been keeping an eye out for any of the symptoms you've described but it's hard to keep track of fatigue when you're on call on the labor & delivery floor, and hard to keep track of temperature regulation when it's 90+ outside and your A/C doesn't work. :) I think both of those things haven't changed since before, although I do seem a little bit crankier than I usually do.
I will say that I'm slightly worried about two things. First, I've got some bloating & constipation going on, but I can't tell if it's related to the IUD or to my awful sporadic med-student diet or dehydration. Secondly, placement - my boyfriend is rather . . . shall we say. . . well endowed, and when we have sex I can feel some pressure way up in my uterus from the IUD. It's not painful, and it's not sharp or anything but I just don't think I'm supposed to *feel* it. Follow-up appointment is on October 9th so if nothing else happens before then I'll address it with my gyno doc then.
So far so good, though.
When it comes to all you ladies that have had bad side effects on the Mirena, I'm wondering if you'd have the same symptoms on a different kind of progesterone-only contraception; i.e. if you've tried going from the Mirena to Depo-Provera and have experienced the same (or different) side effects?
http://www.contracept.info/iud-mirena.php
If you zoom in on adverse affects at the end there is a 3% occurance of hair loss. This is
Mirena's own literature that is the prescribing insert given to docs. It also says that the docs are supposed to offer the prescribing info insert to the patient. If you visit the website I mention in previous posts, CureZone, you will also find other experiences of hair loss from Mirena. It is under Mirena IUD forum. Hope this helps! Take care friend and post back to let us know how you are doing!
I have read through all of your posts and I was so shocked. I have had so many of the same problems you all are describing: hair loss, unexplained weight gain, concentration issues, rage, general emotional rollercoaster, irregular bleeding, pelvic pain, bloating, swelling, joint pain, numb limbs... all of it. I'm not even on Mirena. I am currently taking tri-sprintec ( a generic of ortho tri-cyclin ), I have been researching IUD's as an option for a 'low' or 'no' hormone contraceptive. I have been on BCPs for 17 years and gotten pregnant on the pill 3 times ( my children are 13, 9, and 4 ). I am 30 now and I don't think I can handle another pregnancy right now so I am looking for a reliable form of BC that might work without so much chemical change to my body. I am also taking meds for bipolar disorder and AF that don't like the BCPs too well ( the Drs have told me that's likely why I've had such problems recently ). After reading your posts I am concerned about making the choice to commit to an IUD, but as so many of you know... when your quality of life is this low you'll try anything!
A lot of the information I've read has semi-freaked me out, but some things that have been bothering me are beginning to make sense. I have been over the past few years having concentration and memory issues and have seen my regular doctor, my gynecologist, a psychologist, and a psychiatrist thinking there was something going on with me that I couldn't understand. Every said things once I slowed down, it would get better. My doctor even tried to put me on Prozac (had no effect whatsoever). I blew it off and said, my children (8 and 6) sucked out all my brain juice when they were born, maybe it was me getting older, I had a lot going on, etc. It really has been driving me crazy. I'm missing chunks from the past few years of my life! I also noticed that my bowels had changed, which again I attributed to age.
I'm not saying that those two issues are caused by the mirena, but it's pretty coincidental. I would have never even thought the IUD could possibly be the cause. Let me just say this: I have LOVED Mirena. I got it on the advice of my mother who swore by iud's. Nothing to worry about remembering, spotting but no REAL period, not having to purchase feminine products for years....It's been great and I would consider getting it back after this baby, if during the time I'm off of it, I don't see any difference.
Good luck to those who try it - it can be extremely great! For those who've had bad experiences, I keep you in my prayers. Hopefully, my issues are not attributed to Mirena.
http://www.contracept.info/docs/mirena-doctors.pdfit
Good luck with your up and coming pregnancy! I wish you well friend! PLease post back and let us all know your update! Take care!:):):)
http://www.contracept.info/docs/mirena-doctors.pdf There should also be a site for the Paragard IUD(the non hormonal one) just replace Mirena with Paragard in the site address. I have heard the paragard is not recommended for anyone with heavy periods or bleeding issues. I would also urge you to discuss with your doc any possible interactions with your meds. The Mirena BC is very new and the effects are still being learned. Hope this info helps and good luck to you friend. Please post back and let us all know how you are doing!:)
http://www.contracept.info/iud-mirena.php
You will see that weight gain, headaches, acne, dizziness, and depression are all listed. You may want to print it out and bring it with you to the doctors visit. They like to deny that these side effects occur in some of the patients who use Mirena and will sometimes try to talk you out of removal. The prescribing info even tells the doctors to offer the Mirena insert to their patients but rarely does this happen.
Here is another great site to visit. It has a list of side effects from Mirena also.
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/100001706.html
I have read posts from other women who did not get any major side effects until years into Mirena use. This is not uncommon.
Mirena is a progesterone type BC. Another BC that has the same type of hormone found in Mirena is the Depo shot. This shot is known for some pretty severe side effects in some users. Most of your symptoms should go away after removal of Mirena. After removal it could take your body up to six months to recover from having it in circulation. This info came from my OBGYN who is fantastic. I fired the last one after he tried to convince me to keep Mirena in after I had rages and other debilitating side effects while using it for three months. It could also take some time to get your period back but the sooner you get it removed the sooner your body can recover. When you experience side effects from Mirena it is because the hormone has distributed itself beyond your cervix. So sorry friend that you have suffered so much! Its time for you to feel better! I will be thinking of you! Hope all goes well with removal and please post back to let us all know how it goes for you! Take care!:):):)
Other than the acne, bleeding, and now the yeast infection, all other problems I am not yet relating to Mirena, but I'm not forgetting that as an option. The joint pain, and the cold chills ( and constantly being cold)may be Mirena or it could just be related to something else. Only time will tell. I am going to consult with my OB and get her opinion, but take anything said with a grain of salt. Only time will tell if more "symptoms" appear after the yeast infections but if they do, then doubt is reinforced with education and the IUD will come out.
My only regret is that the literature I was given upon getting the IUD is that these symptoms usually disappear after 3 months.... ahhh its been more than three months, and I think forums like this go against there statistics.
So far so good.
Whoopee!
http://www.contracept.info/docs/mirena-doctors.pdf
Take care friend! Please post back and let us know how you are doing!!!:)
And now I'm kinda scared reading all this!
I'm just going to hope for the best though I guess.
I did experience the cramping. I layed around all day yesterday.
I feel a little this morning.
I was thinking about calling the doctor because you know they say to check the strings, well, I can feel them like right away, I thought they'd be a little farther up.
Is this right?
Because now I'm thinking well okay how am I suppose to have sex? The strings will be poking him! Ya know?
Help if you can!
Just wanted to give an update. Yesterday I had my mirena removed and am anxiously waiting to see how things go. The removal was simple and painless, although he was unable to see the strings. Once he inserted some long tweezer like thing (that's my medical term for it) he was immediately able to grab it.
I will let you know how things go!
I have had Mirena in place since August 15, yes it was painful. Have had spotting ever since except for maybe 1 week. Within the first month I started having the acne, like I was a teenager again, I also experienced a sensation in my breasts like milk was coming in, it reminded me of when I nursed my son 4 years ago. I did mention these issues at the 1m string check, my gyn gave me an rx for the acne (which is slowly helping) and she hadn't heard of the symptom with my breast before. She just told me to hang on till December, I agreed to do so. I have also been feeling pretty lousy, just tired and I have been having a constant daily headache for several weeks now. I work for my PCP doc and I informed him of how I was feeling, so we did lab work and a sinus xray, which were both normal, but it just occured to me that maybe all of this was coming from the hormone in the IUD. The headaches are the main issue, and I'm not one to have them this often, yes I get occasional sinus or tension headache but nothing to last for more than a day. With this being said I did my own research, googled mirena side effects and of course read a ton of similiar and more symptoms from different women, all complaining of the same things. I just don't know of any other reason to be causing this fatigue and daily headache, so I finally contacted my GYN and she said that since it is peak allergy season she wants me to take some allergy meds and a nose spray and see if it helps my headaches. I am willing to try this but It makes me skeptical. I don't want to have the IUD removed if its not the cause but if these symptoms continue for another couple weeks with no relief from the meds my gyn wants me to do then we are going to have to talk. I tend to believe that maybe my body just isn't liking the hormone. Who knows????
I do have 3 other women in my work place who all have the Mirena and have had no complaints, so its weird to be the only one.
http://www.contracept.info/iud-mirena.php
Your doctor had this available to her when she put your Mirena in. The literature says the docs are supposed to offer the Mirena doc's prescribing info to their patient but I have yet to hear that being done. Your headaches and acne are both listed in Mirena's own info as adverse affects. Here is another site for you to visit that will list other side effects from Mirena:
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/100001706.html
Because the medical community does not share up front ALL of the possible side effects from Mirena, it may very well be that your co workers may have side effects and ignore them since their docs did not inform them adequately. There also is the possibilty that your body is sensitive to the hormone in Mirena. I hope the previous sites are helpful and please post back with any questions or concerns! Thinking of you friend, please take care! Hug to you!!!!:):):)
I am surprised your doc would recommend Mirena after the side effects the depo shot gave you. Mirena is a progesterone BC. Depo is also another progesterone BC. If you are sensitive to the hormone in Depo there is a very good chance the same could be true on Mirena. I am going to post the docs prescribing info for Mirena so you can check out the adverse affects listed by Mirena's own literature. Please know it is your choice if you use Mirena or not. I only wish to pass along the info the docs should be passing along. Hopefully this will help you make an informed decision about Mirena. If you have any other questions or concerns please let us know! Also post back friend and let us know how everything goes for you!!!!! Hug to you!
http://www.contracept.info/iud-mirena.php
Anyways, for dysmenorrhea, it is amazing. My periods are so much lighter and I almost have zero cramps. I do not need painkillers anymore.
However, I still get spotting almost everyday. Anyone else experienced this?
P.S. My sex drive has been through the roof since my IUD!
I have a good relationship with my gyn, but I feel like she didn't give me the full story about the Mirena. I trust her, so I didn't think to go to the web and search out "unscientific" side effect reports. But she stressed that weight gain was NOT a possible side effect. I have been rigorously losing weight--42 lbs in the past year; 68 overall--not taking a single holiday from my eating plan. Why did I feel compelled to deviate and binge for the first time in 56 weeks this weekend? The reports of weight gain and acne alarm me greatly. I have overcome tremendous health obstacles to lose weight, and still have at least 20 lbs more to go. I have no tolerance for backsliding. If the Mirena has affected my mood so severely, can the other effects be far behind?
I'm going to see my gyn tomorrow, and have a call into my primary care doc for some advice. What does it say that I can't get through a single conversation without sliding into tears right now? I have a constant headache, unresponsive to any meds, and I'm exhausted. The nurse at the gyn seemed to want to encourage me to "stick it out" for awhile, but I have to be back in the saddle at work on Wednesday. I'm a professional writer, so there is no room for an off day, or calling in sick. I don't show, and there's a big old blank space in the newspaper. And a fired writer.
I'm thinking I just have to get the damn thing taken out and go back on my old friend, Ovcon. Thoughts?
http://www.contracept.info/iud-mirena.php
Here is another site to visit that has many other side effects.
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/100001706.html
It is ultimately your decision to use Mirena or get it removed. I personally feel that once side effects start they usually get worse over time. The one side effect that does seem to get better with time is the bleeding. The nurse telling you to stick it out is speaking in ignorance. They like to tell us that the hormone is local to the cervix but if that were true for all of us then there would not be so many of us on these sites with side effects from Mirena. Mirena cannot 100% account for how much of the progesterone is actually released into our bloodstreams. I believe that in some of us experiencing side effects it is because this hormone is flowing in our bloodstream in higher amounts then women who are not experiencing side effects on Mirena. One of my worst side effects was rage and mood swings. This came on pretty soon after having Mirena inserted and left pretty quickly after I had it removed.
Your Doctor may continue to minimize your side effects but remember that you are in charge of your body and you have to live in it and with it! Listen to your gut it will not let you down. I hope the previous info helps you make an informed decision about Mirena. If you have any other concerns or questions please us know! Take care friend! Hope you are feeling better very soon! Hug to you!!!!!:):):)
1st message Thursday October 12
My wife (35 years old) put in Mirena at the end of August. Few days after insertion he felt very bad so we thought that she had some hearth problems. But this problems lasted only one day. After aprox. 4. weeks after the insertion of Mirena the real scary things began to happen. First she felt numbness in lips (for aprox one hour). After one week she felt numbness and pain in left arm. And from this day the things got only worst and worst. She has problem with breathing and with swallowing (she felt like someone choking her). The numbness in arms came and went away few times per day. She has very strange feelings (mental and psyhical), sometimes she felt dizzy. She can't drive car anymore. And of course she is exhausted all the day so she must relaxing. The things are a little better at the evening. When this problems began I didn't know anything about side effects but I realized that something might be related to Mirena. After that I found a lot of pages with description of similar problems. Yesterday my wife removed the Mirena, but one day after she is still very bad so we dont know if the Mirena is real couse of problems. But I still hope that problems will gone. Does anyone know how long it takes to get rid off Mirena's side effect?
Doctor she visited prescriped her almost all medicine investigation. She started with hearth examination (fine results), simple blood test (fine result), ear&nose and throat exam (fine results). On monday she will have nevrological exam, lunge exam etc.
2nd message, Monday October 11
Questions from Slovenia, Europe:
I read a lot of woman’s experience of Mirena side effects. My wife is unfortunately also one of those women ( I wrote about that in my earlier post Mirena terrible side effects). She removed Mirena on Thursday. On Friday she went to neurologist (because she was feeling very bad with all symptoms - numbness, fatigue, dizziness, breathing problems, unawareness of own body etc). Doctor performed lumbar puncture to eliminate suspicion of encephalitis. Results of puncture and blood test were OK. Today forth day after removal she is feeling better first time after 10 days and today is the first time that she didn’t feel any previous side effects (so far). I hope that this is not only a coincidence. When we mentioned to doctors that she had Mirena inside and asked them if this could cause these symptoms they all denied that. So my questions are: 1 Why docs don’t even take into consideration Mirenas side effects?. 2 Is there any medical proof of Mirenas side effects? 3 What medical examinations can proof that?
I had the Mirena removed about 3 hours ago. I know this REALLY sounds crazy, but I started to feel like myself again IMMEDIATELY, by the time I sat up on the exam table. (By the way, it took my doctor just a few seconds to take it out, and the process was less painful than tweezing an eyebrow hair.)
Discussions with my primary care doc and my family, after I posted yesterday, made me realize removal was absolutely necessary. I was clearly NOT myself. In just six days, I had developed severe depression, insomnia, irritability and a relentless headache. I was starting to feel achy all over. I was so fatigued and listless I could not function. I was barely able to make the half hour drive into town today for the doctor's appt.
I should clear up that my gyn DID give me the full Mirena brochure, have me read it, and discuss all my questions on a subsequent appointment. The problem is that the drug company's info minimizes the side effects, and clearly does not list those that many of you on this message board and others are reporting. I would NEVER have considered anything with even a slight risk of weight gain, after all the hard work I have done to lose weight. Hair loss and cystic acne are two other SE's that would have made me shy away.
Interestingly, my primary noted that she has had several patients who needed to have the Mirena removed almost immediately after having it put in because they could not tolerate the side effects. Unfortunately, the decision to go for the Mirena was one of the few ones I hadn't discussed with her as well, or she might have headed me off at the pass.
I will be making adverse reaction reports to both the drug company and the FDA.
For now, I'm feeling better by the hour. My thinking is clearing and my mood has improved by 100%. I picked up some raspberry leaf tea (I have read many Mirena boards in the past day, and several people recommended it for bringing things back into balance), and will drink that as well as copious amounts of water to clear my system. Thank you to all who have shared their stories. I'm feeling optimistic that I will actually be able to go to work tomorrow (although I may try to halve this week's story schedule to lighten my work load--hope a fellow writer is ready for an extra bit of work while I ease my way back into reality!).
I'm so glad I listened to my body--and my family--and got rid of this. While the Mirena may work for some women, it was poisoning me. I know one of the dangers of web chat rooms and message boards is that people with an agenda post fake stories. But this absolutely happened to me. I still can't quite believe it myself. I hope I don't suffer any lasting consequences to my health, and am saying a prayer for all of you who have.
I think it's good so far. I have the acne and the spotting, but that really isn't that bad when I think about the fact that I don't have to worry about taking a pill everyday and me and my bf don't have to worry about protection if it's 3AM.
Yes everyone should know the side effects that are possible, but like someone mentioned, you can have adverse side effects even from aspirin! Everyone is different, your DNA makes you unique and how you process and deal with "intrusions". So instead of saying it's the worst thing ever no one should get it (which is sitting on a soap box) say, this was horrible for me, this is what happened, so anyone thinking of getting it, get all your facts straight BEFORE you even talk to your Dr about it.
I researched BC methods for a month and then researched the Mirena for about a month before even going to my Dr with it. I'm still scared that somethings going to go wrong, BUT my body will let me know if it's not going to work out.
Good luck to everyone out there, hopefully you'll decide for yourself.
I have had my Mirena since 1/05 and I love it. I have had no problems at all. I have had no spotting or bleeding with the device (I did not have a period prior to having the device inserted due to use of Depo Provera) and have only gained about 10 lbs over the years. This though is more likely due to my horrible diet as I run my son all over the place for cub scouts and baseball than is from the device.
I do love not having to worry about going to the doc for shots every three months for Depo or running to the pharmacy and having to remember to take pills or change the patch.
I hope all of you who had problems feel better soon but I just want everyone to know...It does work for some people and these people LOVE IT.
Just an aside: I had the misfortune of a doctor who tried to tell me "not to listen to all the stuff on the internet." Well the women on these sites come here because they are desperate for help. Their lives are falling apart and don't know why and they have some quack of a doctor minimizing their concerns and making them question their own gut instincts. The majority of women who share are searching and sharing in an attempt to get validation for their suffering and the source of that suffering. I am so glad that there are sites like this that help women like you and myself find that hope!
I am so so glad that you are doing better and I am glad to see that you will be taking it easy for awhile! If you should have any concerns what so ever please do not hesitate to post back. I will be thinking of you friend and sending you some healing energy!!!! Big Hug to you!!!!!!!!!!!:):):)
I am sorry I did not post sooner in reply. It is important that you get in to see the doctor ASAP. If you cannot feel the threads it is possible for the IUD to become imbedded so it needs to get checked by your OB. I want to note that this is very rare but it is always best to be cautious. It may be that the doc did cut the strings too short, but do try to get it checked out soon. I would also keep an eye on the lack of attention you are experiencing. I had quite a bit of concentration issues while on Mirena and had a very "fuzzy" head the entire time it was in. I can say with 100% certainty that Mirena caused this since it only happened after it was put in and left after being taken out. This side effect only got worse for me so I would just keep track of it and watch for signs of it getting worse. The spotting on Mirena is a common side effect. The doctors will tell you after three months this will get better but this is not always the case. Each individual is different in how this product will affect them and sometimes the spotting does not go away. Hopefully it will get better for you friend but your body is unique to you. This is not a product where I can tell you what is the "norm." It seems to affect each of us so uniquely that there is no standard. I hope that you are doing well. Please post when you get the chance to let us all know how things are going for you! I am worried friend. Sending you a hug!!!!!
The spotting continued for several more days, but has finally stopped completely. Thankfully, I never had any of the heavy bleeding other have reported.
A friend of mine told me that her daughter had a similarly severe reaction to another device (a Nuvaring, I think). So these types of reactions might not be specific to the Mirena, but linked to implanting a device that contains hormones. Perhaps the release of the chemicals is not as well controlled as it is supposed to be. I know I sure felt awful. The BC pill, which I had taken for many years, never affected me this way. The hormone dosage in a pill, of course, is well standardized.
For now, I'm staying off of everything, and when George Clooney comes over, he's going to have to bring plenty of latex with him!
I have noticed a definate decrease in headaches, breast tenderness, amdominal pain, and painful sex. All of these problems have improved dramatically. Headaches down from 3 or 4 a week to 3 or 4 a month. As of yet I have lost maybe 2 or 3 lbs with out trying, but people keep asking if I have lost weight, I think it is b/c the bloating in my stomach has gone down. My sex drive is about the same, but I am hoping that will improve in time.
I am curious as to what exactly makes Mirena so different besides the hormones? If I got the Copper IUD, would I be likely to experience some of these symptoms? It sounds like most of the horror stories here are hormonal.
Also, physically, how does it feel? Do you feel like you have something inside you? If you move around a certain way do you feel it? Also, I know it says you can't feel it during sex, but there are strings there, and it must be somewhere close??? The idea of strings inside me all the time makes me worry I'll get some sort of infection from having them in me. Like they say not to leave a tampon in...I know they aren't nearly the same, but can't the strings gather bacteria????
I'm on the fence about doing this, whether it is copper iud or Mirena.... but I'm really scared about it. I used to take the pill with no issues, but I do not want the hormones. (i take other medication and also get migraines- so changes in my body aren't taken well)
http://www.contracept.info/docs/mirena-doctors.pdf
Mirena is also known to cause headaches sometimes even migraines as a side effect. It is not recommended for individuals with previous migraine history as the hormone can make the migraines worsen. If you are experiencing headaches it is most likely a side effect from the chemical in Mirena. If you look closely at the previous site you will also see weight gain and acne listed. This is by no means a complete list of side effects but these are the ones the Mirena makers disclose up front.(prescribing doctors info) This is another site for you to visit that lists even more side effects that Mirena can cause:
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/100001706.html
I am glad you did not allow the Dr. to put you on the antidepressants. I think you are making a wise choice to remove! My OBGYN says to give it at least six months time to recover from Mirena. I personally saw my side effects get better pretty soon after removal.(I also experienced severe rage/mood swings on Mirena and a whole laundry list of others) If you find that any of the side effects are lingering on you then it would be best to have your hormone levels checked to see if anything is going on post Mirena with any hormone imbalances. I think if your hormone levels are normal then you should see some weight loss but give it the full six months. Each of us is different so it is difficult to give you an exact time frame for side effects getting better but hopefully this info helps some! I do hope that everything goes smoothly with removal! Take it easy for the first few days! Drink lots of water to help flush the chemicals out of your body!! I do hope you are feeling much better very soon!!!!! Big Hug to you!!!:)
I was on another webpage and noticed a lot of women who have not had children yet talking about how it's still ok to get this IUD. I think someone mentioned the size of your uterus as being a factor. Is there any truth in that?
I have not actually been to do the doctor's about this as I don't have insurance at the moment, but I've been dealing with these cramps since I first started my period and now I'm just becoming so fed up with the pain because it's unbearable. When I was younger my doctor told me it was normal to have bad cramps though. However, sometimes my body doesn't respond to Ibuprofen and such. So this is why I'm looking at all methods to try to end my period all together but still be able to have children when I'm ready.
Also, I noticed a lot of women on here talking about how this IUD made them depressed. Would it counter act my severe depression? I know some medicines work like that, like giving Ritalin to someone who does not have ADD.
I'm very worried about going through this step, but I can't swallow pills, and can't really keep up with them either. I'm still considering the depo shot, but just want to cover all my options.
Thank You for any advice :)
http://www.contracept.info/docs/mirena-doctors.pdf
To the poster who referred to some of us as wimps, you need to do some more research regarding your incorrect comments. Depression is listed in Mirena's own literature(the doc's prescribing info), as well as many other adverse affects that you do not mention. If so many women are experiencing this PPD then why do I hear more often then not that the depression started only after the IUD was put in? It would be more likely to be PPD if it happened anywhere in the six week period before insertion of Mirena. The docs like to diagnose PPD or regular depression because then they get to write another prescription that puts more $ in their pockets. There are women who come here in need of assistance and will listen to comments that are posted and you do them a disservice in sharing incorrect information. For your own health as well, it would do you some good to look into the complete possible side effects so you are better informed. Funny the docs like to say the same thing you did, the hormone is local to the cervix, but the prescribing info that is right at their fingertips says otherwise.( A % of hormone is circulated in the bloodstream and Mirena does not know how it gets metabolized(how it leaves the body))This Mirena is a big $ maker for them and they sure like to push it as a miracle BC. If you truly are able to get along with this with minimal side effects then Mirena has worked for you but if you are suffering through it to get to the light at the end of the tunnel then you are putting your body and your hormone balances at risk. If it feels bad then your body is YELLING at you telling you something is wrong. You can either listen or not. Its your body and you have to live in it and with it. There are other non chemical ways to prevent future babies.
I cannot emphasize enough the need to research this and any BC method so you and only you are in charge of the decisions. The doctors are not always truthful in giving the whole picture.(as you will so clearly see when you read the prescribing docs info for Mirena) If anyone has any concerns or questions they would like answered please post anytime! I truly am so happy for those of you with positive experiences with Mirena! Please continue to share your experience so other posters can see some get on well with this BC. For those of you who have suffered or are still suffering, my heart goes out to each and every one of you! It is cruel what this BC can do to some of us! It is ridiculous that the doctors are not disclosing the whole truth about what can happen with this BC in turn leaving so many in the dark for so long about their symptoms. I hope that with time for our bodies to recover, we will all see a healthy and happy future!!!!! Take care friends!!! Hugs to all of you!!!
Yes there are plenty of women who get this BC who have not had children before but I was sharing that Mirena does not recommmend it as a first choice. There are a lot of women with health problems such as yours that doctors will go ahead and recommend it for anyway. I just wanted to make you aware of some major risks associated with use in a women who has never had children:) If you do decide to get this BC after doing the research, I would request the doc give you a local anesthetic because it will be painful. In women who have given birth it is less painful. You are truly suffering so terribly and I do understand the need to feel better ASAP! I am so sorry this is happening to you! I do think with a competent doctor he may be able to find a root cause to your pain!
The doc who told you painful cramps are normal, was inaccurate in saying that to you. Women who experience painful cramps like yours usually do so because they have underlying conditions causing the severe cramps. This doctor should have been running tests on you to see if you have endometriosis or cysts. I would find a new doctor ASAP. Even with no insurance you should be able to make payment arrangements with the doc or you could go and see someone at planned parenthood(they usually have a sliding scale fee schedule). It is so important for you to get this followed up on!
Did you get some time to research estrogen dominance? This could be another cause of why you are having terrible cramps. It can also cause severe depression as well. There is a fix for this and could be easily diagnosed with a saliva test on your 21st day after your period. Sorry I keep mentioning this but a lot of women get bad period side effects and this is sometimes the cause.
:)
Regarding the depression, yes Mirena's literature states depression as a side effect. Unfortunately, because it is a chemical BC it can and does sometimes make depression worse. I will send you to another forum and maybe you can ask the ladies there about the depression issue with Mirena. I do not know if being on meds for depression would lessen this side effect happening but it would be worth looking into. The site is CureZone and the forum is Mirena IUD. They are all very smart and educated women and I know they will have some answers for you!!!
I am so glad that you are asking questions and gathering all the answers you need to make an informed decision. My sis doesn't like to swallow pills either!:) Please keep us updated friend and continue to post back with any concerns what so ever!!!:) Take care!!! Healing thoughts to you!:):):)
To all other posters:
Please visit the site I listed from the official Mirena makers and do not listen to opinions that are being spitefully posted in hopes of minimizing all of our suffering with this product. Happy health to all!!!!!!
__________________________________________________________________________________
To all posters please continue to know that side effects that are genuine can happen at anytime even if you have never experienced side effects. It is important to be aware of what can happen as a precaution. The Mirena website that I listed before will have some of the side effects that can happen. The side effects are real and contrary to what has been posted you CANNOT think them away. Please post with any concerns or questions! Big Hugs!:)
On the Mirena, I was transformed into an almost unrecognizable version of me. Within a minute--LITERALLY--of its removal, I began to feel like myself again. I had the Mirena in for all of SIX days. Without the honest postings of women on this board, I might not have realized so quickly what was going on. What I learned here--along with input from my primary care doc and my family--help me make the decision to have it removed immediately.
An update for those of you do care: I seem to be experiencing no lasting consequences. I had a slightly heavier than normal period, but this is the first time in 9 years I have been off hormonal BC (pills) entirely. So far, so good. I've been waiting to make my adverse event reports to the drug company and the FDA--to make sure that there has been no permanent damage to my health--but I think I'm going to be okay. I thank all of you for your support, and send everyone my best thoughts too!
I am so glad to hear from you friend! I am so relieved that you are doing better after removal! Hopefully the periods will get better in a few months. It can take sometime for them to get back on track after removal. I will be thinking of you friend and looking for your updates! I hope you will be back to 100% health very soon!!!! HUGS! Take care my friend!:)
Your concerns about Mirena were valid friend and sharing them with your doctor was necessary. I know the docs can try to make us feel like crazy people for sharing that we believe our side effects can be caused by their Mirena, but side effects can and do happen with this IUD(as is noted in the Mirena literature and are posted by so many of us on this site) so you were very smart to be assertive about your health and to proceed with caution with the Mirena.
I am so truly sorry you are dealing with this terrible news from your doc. I will say a prayer for you that the test is negative! Thiinking of you friend and sending you lots of light and hope!!!:):):)
This is the first time I have been on this forum but i have also had continual infections and was interested to read your story as it is very similar to mine. My doctor told me I had herpes and i felt so sick until the results came back and they were negative. It was strep A, a skin infection. I got it again 4 weeks later, same thing. If i get it again she would like me back and I will be refferred to a specialist. Since reading this site i am wondering if it is my Mirena. I totally understand how you are feeling, it was on my mind 24hours a day. Hope all goes well.
I am so sad to read that the test came back positive! How are you feeling now? Did the medicine help the outbreak go away? I am thinking of you friend! I hope that you are doing okay! PLease post back and let us know how you are doing! I know this has got to be tough on you and please know you have a friend here whenever you need one. Sending you another hug! Take care Avrora!:):):)
You can get pregnant anytime after the IUD is removed but I would strongly recommend waiting at least 6-8 weeks so you give your body time to get the chemicals out and at least start the recovery process. I say this for your health friend and please do not listen to me if you are wanting to start right away. :) I know that with your husband back home you both will probably not want to wait:):)
I hope that you are doing better! Please keep us posted with your progress! Hugs!:):):)
I'm 21 and I've just had my Mirena inserted. I can tell you I had never felt such an intense pain in my life as when I was getting it in. I hurt pretty bad the few hours after it, but I got plenty of rest and now I hardly feel anything. I have high hopes for Mirena since I've tried all types of BC available in the market and nothing worked. It's been now 5 days since I got Mirena and I feel great!
I was told I was going to have intense cramps for a few days after the insertion of Mirena, but I can say I'm very happy that the amount of after pain I got is not nearly as bad as I expected. I've never had a baby before and have never been pregnant either, so I was very scared of it. Just make sure you get a doctor who is EXPERIENCED in inserting Mirena on women who had not had a baby before. If you get someone that is unexperienced, you might have a really bad time and it can also be dangerous for you!
Good luck to you and everyone else in this forum! =)
Just like a majority of you I had a horrific experience with the Mirena IUD. The first day of insertion I had what I honest to god thought was the flu and my joints hurt terribly. I had bad anxiety, acne, severe cramping and a myriad of other symptoms as well. About a month later I had the most intense cramps of my life to the point I was doubled over. The gyn checked me out and said the strings were present and that it was probably just some bad cramps caused by the IUD still settling in (a month later?) He told me to take 800mg of Ibuprofen and just deal with it so to speak.
Well they did go away and another two months went by until I was sent for an US by my GI for bowel problems. It was then discovered that the IUD had migrated into my cervical canal and was stuck there. Apparently that's what caused the horrible cramps I had prior when the doc just told me to suck it up.
I can't blame my IUD for all my symptoms because I had other issues as well. The US also revealed that I had two large (tennis ball sized) cysts, one on each ovary that required surgery and during the surgery it was discovered that I had horrible endo and that my left ovary had to be removed. This was a shock to me since I always had very regular and uneventful periods and absolutely no pain whatsoever.
My gyn who did the surgery said that the IUD probably did not cause most of those symptoms, but it didn't help them any either. Basically it was the straw that broke the camels back and with that thing sitting in my uterus my whole reproductive system said ENOUGH!
So just remember ladies to research all types of birth control to find ones that will best suit your needs and find a good doctor who will listen. Also be wary of all the negative information you read on the internet as well. Many of the posters work for natural herbal remedy places and will post bad info on the product just to get you onto theirs. Another thing you don't know the medical conditions of the other posters who are complaining of their side effects. One woman I was talking to was saying that the IUD gave her severe headaches. After I visited her MySpace page I found out she was severely overweight and diabetic as well as on 5 different prescription medications. See what I mean?
So all I can say is be safe and in the long run listen to what your body is telling you.
For about 6 years I had been using birth control pills. When I would get my period, it was very bad. Very painful and heavy, I would be completely out of commission, this was how it had always been, even before BC. I had had a history of depression and weight gain as well. I wanted to try the Mirena IUD because I was scared about getting pregnant one day. I had been reading forums like this one, trying to learn more about Mirena and I nearly canceled my appointment because of the horror stories I read here. I decided to try anyway, and I had it put in 7 months ago. Insertion was painful, but not unbearable. I got it done at a women's clinic and I the doctor was very experienced and skilled with IUDs. The strings were left long for the first month so that removal would be easy if necessary. I did spot a little the first week. When I went back a month later, an ultra-sound checked the position of the IUD and the strings were trimmed. Sex was comfortable, and my DH could not feel it. I have not had my period since getting the Mirena. I have had no side effects, and have in fact lost weight since getting it. I would recommend it to everyone. The worst part of the whole thing was the fear I had the first day, and that was due only to the horror stores I've read on this site and similar ones.