Merina IUD and Cramps

[Krisoctober29]

I am a 37 y/o woman who has had no children.  I had the Merina IUD inserted a week ago and I am still experiencing heavy cramping and spotting.  I have been told by my OB/GYN that the Merina is safe for women who have never had a child and that these symptoms will subside. Does anyone out there use the Merina who has not had children?  If so, what are your experiences with it?

[corykis okay]

Never used an IUD myself I have heard that the cramping is experienced by many women at the start, My sister in law has one and has had no complaints at all but she does have one child.

[Still_AndiJ]

My understanding is that in women who have never had children, the cramping with be a little worse in the beginning because you have never had the stretching that occurs when you have kids. Take some motrin, hopefully that will help. In time it should subside. Just to double check, have you had any unusual pain, fever, or discharge since getting it inserted? If you answer yes to any of these, I would suggest getting checked out ASAP as in rare instances you can develop an infection upon insertion.

If the answer is no, than most likely it is just stretching your "virgin" uterus : )

Good luck, I loved my Mirena!!

Andi

[Linzyluhoo]

I have Mirena...But my doctor told me that Mirena can only be used in women who have had 1 or more child. ...I'm sure your dr. knows what they are doing , though...I agree with the other poster, it probabily will be soar a little bit longer than normal...due to the fact that nothing down there has ever been stretched, dialated or thinned out.

[Still_AndiJ]

They have recently changed their mind on using Mirena on women who have never had children. Dh worked with a woman a year ago who had it put in and she had never had any either. I thought it was odd, but did some reading on it. Pretty interesting, I am glad to see it is being used more often and by different women. It is a fantastic form of birthcontrol, provided you fit into the low risk group.

Again, if you don't have any s/s of infection, take some motrin or tylenol, maybe a warm bath and things should resolve soon enough.

Andi

[Krisoctober29]

Thank you all for your posts.  They were very helpful.

[4YMIKE]

I HAVE THE MERINA, IT'S NOW BEEN FOUR DAYS SINCE THE INSERTION THAT WAS NOT SO PAINFUL. JUST A FEW CRAMPS! BUT i HAVE HAD NO BLEEDING WHAT SOEVER. IS THAT NORMAL? HOWEVER I'M CRAMPING LIKE CRAZY, I PAST A BIG BLOOD CLOT.  BUT SO FAR I THINK I'M GOING TO LOVE IT  

[msrubi]

I had it inserted 7 weeks ago and am getting ot out this week. My blood pressure has spiked considerably, I am having palpitations, I have gained 10 lbs and my hair is beginning to fall out. My doctor said "those aren't typical side effects, maybe they're due to something else." My PCP did blood work, stress test and nothing else going on so I am getting rid of the IUD and GYN too. Not the panacea they make it out to be.,

[LoriG727]

I had my Mirena inserted over 2 weeks ago. I have never had children either and I have had cramps every day since I had it put in. The day I had it inserted was TERRIBLE.. I threw up from the pain after it was inserted and had to take prescription pain medicine and it didn't even touch my pain.. even now, Ibuprofen isn't helping my cramps.. the only good thing about it is my sex drive has been really high since the insertion. How long should I cramp? I read somewhere it could take months to completely subside..

[mpineda123]

I have never had children and have had the Merena IUD for over a  year. I fainted from the pain when it was inserted and I almost had it removed after the first month because of the terrible cramping, but my sister (she has it also) told me to stick it out a couple of more weeks.  My cramps lasted about 45-60 days, but it was well worth the wait.  The cramps aren't causing damage, which is what I was worried about, and after the first couple of months I have never been happier with a birth control.  I don't have a period anymore, which my doctor said was normal, and I haven't seen the weight gain and mood swings I have experienced with other contraceptives.   I recommend giving it at LEAST two months before having it removed! I absolutely love it!

[stop this]

i have had bleeding for 3 months and have bad cramps and
blood clots and stopped bleeding for 10 days in that 3 months finly stopped 1 day well should i say more im waiting 1 more mounth then ???????????

[missredd]

my oldest son is 20 and my baby is 2.i had my oldest son  the old fashion way..push push push.and my second son was delivered my c-section.I was wondering if they 20 yr gap was like my cervix going back to virgin stage?
i had my mirena inserted on the 4 of sept..i had to go in while still on my cycle..it has been 14 days  i have been bleeding.my cycle usually last between 3-5 days max.is it normal to bleed for awhile when you first get it? i cramped only for the first day and have not cramped again..just continue to bleed..i noticed the flow went from spotting to needing a lightday but its not filling up the pad..just smears and streaks.did anyone experience that problem or and i jumping the gun.

[ha22]

i had mine inserted two years ago . i have 2 children ,and i havent had any problems with it . in the begening i had some bleeding [spots] for 2 months and then after that itstoped and there were no periods untill now .but my concern is [ if i remove the iud how long will it take me to get pregnant?]

[pinky553]

I have had two children and when I had my IUD incerted I experienced cramps so bad, they were every bit as bad as labor pain.  I thought I would die.  It was really bad for two days but it got better on the third day.  I was still in pain for about four weeks, but it was more bearable.  Amy

[smalls2781]

I had my IUD put in on Friday.  The pain was so bad that I had instant diaherra and started pucking while still in the doctor's office.  The nurses had to drive me home.  I have taken 2 advils every 4 hours which has helped with the cramps.  I also have been spotting since I had it in place.  I have never had children and after going through the pain of insertion of the IUD, I don't think that I ever will!  I am going to stick it out for a few months before I decide to have it taken out.

[moodyblue66]

I had my merina put in three months ago and my period has never stopped. I've been bleeding straight since Oct 18th when I had it put in. I had it put in because my cycle was so heavy and were painful. Mind you the pain and cramping are gone, but the bleeding hasn't. I haven't had the weight gain, but have lost weight. I was lucky in that department. I also didn't break out in acne either. It's the constant bleeding and mood swings that are getting to me. Tonight I had a freak out on everyone and I know it's the hormones doing that to me. I'm normally not like this and am usually calm. I went to my doctor last month with the complaints and she told me to stick it out for a few more months. How long does this merina take to stop my cycle altogether? I'm going back to the doctor's on Jan 10th for a repeat pap because abnormal cells were found on my cervix and I'm going to tell them that this merina isn't working as it should.

[brooklynn86]

I had my IUD put in 2 days ago and it is driving me crazy. Im 21 and have never been pregnant and have no plans of ever getting pregnant and this was the next best thing to having my tubes tied. They wont let me do that but im confident that i will never change my mind about children. Ive been on the patch for 3 years and after a while it was just becoming a hassel with worring about it sliding off or sticking to my clothes and i was starting to feel very depressed.
Anyways back to the point.... I know ive only had my IUD for 2 days but the cramping is SOO bad I dont think it purforated my uterus because i can still move but the pain feels like a bad BAD period and I get very bad periods while on the patch. I know i shouldnt give up on it after a week but does the cramping get less ever? Ive been so medicated since i had it put in i thought i was getting better but after not taking anything for 8 hrs the pain so soo bad.... I'm going to try to stick it out for as long as i can without becoming addicted to pain relievers. Plus it cost me $380 and that would be just a waste of money.

Can I have sex after a few days or will that make the cramping even more worse?? Because i want to have sex but im terrified of the pain becoming worse..... Please let me know if you know...
THANKS SO MUCH!!!!

[jrd325]

wow, I found this forum googling IUD and cramps. I got my three days ago and am still having bad cramps as well.  I agree w/ the poster who said it is more like labor pains then menstrual cramps. ugghh I am so frustrated I tried going for a walk today and the contractions (for lack of a better term) got so bad I had to stop.  And umm, brooklynn86 I had sex last night and I do believe it made my cramping/back pain worse today.?? I wouldn't recommend it until the cramping at least lessens. I have read that it may take up to three months for the cramping to stop.  But, who wants to live like this until it does?

[bionerd272]

I had Merina put in a month ago, and I found it very painful on the first day, which I guess is normal if you have never given birth (I haven't).  I had really bad cramps for the first week...but now I feel fine and love that I don't have to worry about taking a pill every day!!  I was on birth control pills for the past 3 years and got sick of being worried that I was pregnant every month, since I forgot to take them time-to-time.  I haven't had any other problems with the Merina, which I was scared to have--since most of these discussion boards say horrible things like losing hair, loss of sex drive, weight gain, etc. I've actually lost some weight, which I think is because of not being on the pills for the first time in 3 years.  I guess it's different for everyone, but I would have to say that for me, the pain in the beginning is worth it!!

[Leannec829]

I had mine Merina put in one week ago.  I've had 2 kids but because of some scar tissue my health care provider said it was a very difficult insertion.  If I do not take 800 mg of iburprofin every 6 to 8 hours the pain is very bad.  Its not getting any better.  Also having the back pain and the pain is worse on the right side.  I agree with jrd325 - feels more like contractions than menstral cramps.  At 40 my options for birth control are getting fewer, I sure hope these cramps go away.  Anyone had bad cramps for several weeks after???

[Leannec829]

I had mine Merina put in one week ago.  I've had 2 kids but because of some scar tissue my health care provider said it was a very difficult insertion.  If I do not take 800 mg of iburprofin every 6 to 8 hours the pain is very bad.  Its not getting any better.  Also having the back pain and the pain is worse on the right side.  I agree with jrd325 - feels more like contractions than menstral cramps.  At 40 my options for birth control are getting fewer, I sure hope these cramps go away.  Anyone had bad cramps for several weeks after???

[Momof1boy3girls]

I got minds put in about 3wks ago it wasn't so bad, I cramped a little after which I was told was normal, I started my period 2wks ago with light spooting the first 2 days and then a period(notheavy) now spotting again, I called my Dr and she said that it was normal to bleed a little longer with the IUD in place just as long as it is not heavy bleeding, bad odor and dosn't last longer then 2mth then they will have to give something to stop the bleeding, if this continues spotting are not, I am going to have them take it out at my next appointment in 2wks.

[Cncrnd1]

I wish to alert those who have had a Merina recently fitted for or had one for some time, If they feel tired, listless, bloated, have no energy and or have unpredictable mood swings, This could be a side effect reaction to the device and could have a devastating effect on relationships with your partner and others around you.  It might be better to consider an alternative if this does actually occur frequently.   Talk about alternatives with your GP. It is essential to weigh up the advantages against disadvantages as this may not suit everyone.  Exercise and healthy diet to minimise weight gain is of course a pre-requisite.    

R
  

[Christineg854]

I had my Merina put in over 2 years ago - after I had my son in 2005. I LOVE it. I've always hated taking the pill (it gives me morning sickness and other side effects) and I've tried a bunch of other birth control options and this is by far the best thing I've ever tried. Before having my son, I used to get really bad menstrual cramps and long, heavy periods. Since getting the Merina I now get very light periods (I only have to wear panty liners for a few days) and just a little bit of cramping. I haven’t had any weird side effects like weight gain or hair loss. The one strange thing that happened to me after getting the Merina, was that after about 2 months of having it inserted, the stings went up inside my uterus so I can no longer check to see if is it still there by feeling for the strings. I have to get an ultra sound every year just to make sure it is still in place. But it is a small price to pay for not having to worry about birth control for up to five years (that is how long you can keep it in).

I would highly recommend the Merina as a form of birth control to anyone who has had one or more children already. However, I do not recommend it to anyone who has not had a baby. I’ve tried having an IUD BEFORE I had my son (although it was the copper coil not the Merina) and it was horrible. I had really bad bleeding, spotting and cramping throughout my whole cycle and so I had it taken out a few months after getting it in. I don't know if I'm having better luck this time because it is the Merina or because I've had a child - it is probably a combination of both factors - but I would certainly recommend trying the Merina to anyone who has already had a child.

I'm thinking about getting preggers again in the next few months, so I'm going to book an appointment with my doctor to get it removed - although I'm not sure how he is going to take it out now that the strings are no longer hanging down - I'll let you know how it goes...

[C276]

I feel much better reading this and knowing that I am not just being a wimp about the whole thing.  I had my IUD put in yesterday (which was the worst pain I think I have ever experienced) and spent the whole day lying down.  I have not had any children and I am very small so I imagined that it would hurt a bit--but who could prepare for that-OOOWWWW.  I have been taking some Motrin and that seems to help a little bit.  The best I felt was just sitting in the tub until the water went cold (with a book and a glass of wine), it eased my back pain as well.  Today is a bit better but I'm afraid to do anything.  I am still cramping and my back hurts and I don't want anything to make it worse.  I was suppose to do my regular exercising of running and lifting weights but I'm just afraid it making things worse.  I am also concerned about having sex  because I don't want to hurt anymore than I am right now.  Will any of this have a negative effect?  How long before you forget it's there and can move on?

[Nat72]

I had my first Mirena IUD inserted today by my ob/gyn.  The only mistake that I know as of today is that I read way too much on the internet about other's experiences.  I am 36 and have never had children.  The pain was very crampy but only lasted a few minutes during the insertion.  Felt some lower back pain/pressure.  I am pretty much a wimp-----but I did not faint, vomit, etc. as I have read.  Everyone is different.  I took 3- 200mg Advil's before my visit as directed by my physician.  I am hoping for the best.  I was advised that the Mirena IUD is close to (as far as bc) as one having their tubes tied.  Also, since I am in good physical shape (5'3" 112 lbs) My periods may stop completely!  I made a switch from Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo to the Mirena since I am a smoker.  Good luck to anyone that tries it.  I was also told that the after cramping is normal, etc.  My physician also explained that there is a very very low chance of the IUD expelling. My next check-up is 4/8 and of course I am hoping for the best in the next 6 weeks!

[kelso660]

I Had my Iud put in last may so 11 months ago it was going great i had the ususal spotting and cramping and it all went away no periods which was awesome cause im my family periods are horrible hevy flows and cramps like labor.. well anyway these last 2 weeks i have been bleeding lightly and today i am having real bad bleeding i dont understand is this normal???

[kelso660]

I Had my Iud put in last may so 11 months ago it was going great i had the ususal spotting and cramping and it all went away no periods which was awesome cause im my family periods are horrible hevy flows and cramps like labor.. well anyway these last 2 weeks i have been bleeding lightly and today i am having real bad bleeding i dont understand is this normal???

[Nat72]

Had Merina inserted 2/27......everything has been going great.  My boyfriend cannot feel the strings and of course the iud as well.

My insertion was the day of my period.  My "real" period with the iud only lasted about 2-3 days.  I spotted very lightly for a few more days (panty liner).  Sex for the first time was a little scary on my part...what to expect?  Everything went very well just as if I didn't have the IUD.  I have had sex about 4 more times since then...ok.  Last night, I noticed pain during sex in my right side (lower hip)?  I had some pain prior to sex and I think that it may just be ovulation pains?  Anyway, no more spotting,etc.  I have been able to locate my strings only once.  I will follow up with doc on 4/8/08.  I know that he left them long but I have heard they can hide behind the cervix/uterus?  If the pain persists on my right side after this week, I will make an appt earlier.  

Final note:  I AM HAPPY WITH THE MERINA!  I have not had my second period so that is about the only thing I am hesitant about (s/b around 3/26).

Also note, I came off of Ortho Tri-Cyclen after about 5 years.  On BCP's about 15-16 years.

[seh654]

I had a miscarriage and a C&C three weeks ago - the pregnancy was an accident - and my obgyn put in an IUD on 3/17.  It hurt like crazy and the only warning was "slight pressure" just before hand.  Anyway, my question is - has anyone had one put in right after a miscarriage or a D&C?  I've never had kids and I'm having alot of pain.  It's only been three days, though.  I just wonder if it's odd that my obgyn would put one in so soon.

[seh654]

... I mean D&C

[hazeybean]

I am a 42-year-old single woman who never had a child. I had a Mirena IUD inserted almost three years ago as a birth control method but also because I had uterine fibroids with uncontrolled bleeding. I have never had a problem with it at all. In fact, it has changed my life. My periods are nearly non-existant (which for me is good when you compare that to uncontrolled bleeding) and I haven't worried about birth control in years. Only once has a partner claimed they could feel the strings. I am having some cramping today and am wondering if it's time to have it checked (though they say you can leave it in for five years). I will be disappointed if I have to have it removed.

[Cyndle]

I have endometriosis and I had my merina IUD put aug 15 2007 I had horrible pain for the first 2 months missed work and was medicated, and then one day I woke up with less pain and then the next week it was better... periods are getting lighter and lighter every month still a bit of cramping but nothing compared to what I had with no IUD. To all those who want to take theirs out after the first week hold out it is worth it in the End.

[RJR08]

I had been diagnosed with severe endometriosis, have had two laparoscopic procedures to remove some of the endometriosis and was not able to take birth control pills - because I have had a couple of DVT's (blood clots) in the past.  My periods were every 28 days and so heavy that I would have to wear a super plus tampon and an overnight pad - and change BOTH every 2 hours.  The back pain and cramping was horrific. I am 33 and do not have children, nor have I ever been pregnant.  It has been just about 1 year since I had my merina IUD put in.  The insertion was painful - very crampy and it pinched. I fainted and had to stay an additional hour at the GYN office, until they thought it was okay for me to go.  I would imagine that it was to be expected, since I have never been pregnant.  I spent that night (it was Friday) and the weekend on the couch. The cramping went away by Monday and I was back at work.  The next month I had barely any spotting.  Actually, I have had 2 "periods" since insertion - which consisted of me wearing a panty liner for 2-3 days max.  I LOVE my merina.  IT HAS CHANGED MY LIFE DRAMATICALLY.  Before I got it, I lived my life by the calendar - I wasn't able to exercise 1 week out of every month.  The money I spent on tampons and pads was crazy, never mind the money I spent on pain medication.  Also, the Rx from the doctor for pain control was so strong that I wasn't allowed to DRIVE while taking it...I am a NEW person.  I have not felt this good since the beginning of high school.  I have not had any of the above mentioned side effects, but all I can tell you is to give it at least a couple of months - providing it is inserted correctly and you don't have any infections, etc.  Not having to worry about getting a period and not having to worry about being pregnant is the BEST feeling in the world.  I have actually recommended it to my female relatives and friends.  Anyone who has, or is suffering from endometriosis, you understand what I am saying.  The relief from the pain and relief of all the crappy monthly symptoms is the next best thing to a hysterectomy.  And, it's a certainly a LOT easier than having your uterus removed.  I am so grateful that my GYN gave me the merina IUD as an option.

[lifthisname]

I got my Merina in January. I have had two periods since then and my periods are usually 3-4 days of light flow and now they are very very light but last over two weeks.
I am going crazy already. I feel like I am a crabby mad woman. I really want to give it time but The long periods are making me and my husband crazy.
I have been looking online to see if others who have had longer periods say that they start to fade each month but have not found that yet.

[Mshellz]

Hey, I am 23yrs old and on my 2nd Merina, I haven't had kids yet nor been pregnant, I suffer from endometriosis which is why i have a merina as the pill made me eat all the time a have nasty mood swings. the 1st i had inserted was last yr and had to have removed after 2wks as I was suffering from severe stabbing pains, it turned out i had contracted Chlamydia from my BF at the time and it was reacting with the Merina. I wish i had known 2 get tested b4 hand after all the trouble i went through. I consider myself to be fairly safe when it comes to safe sex but as my partner was ignorant I caught it anyway. Had i not had any symptoms I would have ended up with an infection that would have damaged me and probably stopped me from having kids. I had my 2nd one inserted Feb18th 08 and it wasnt easy to get in, which made it very painful. The cramping hurt for a few days and i had 2 fairly heavy and long periods since then but i have now started to settle. It is great knowing i wont have an unexpected pregnancy but it is scary to know that one wrong move while having sex and i could catch an STD and risk my health again. I will never have unprotected sex unless its a long term relationship and we have both proven we are healthy. I want to have children and would never forgive myself if I didn't do something so simple as use a condom. I hope all women out there care about themselves enough to do the same, trust me, we would be horrified to know how many people have STDs and don't even know it. Its rare to get symptoms for any type. I hope my wee story helps even one woman out there and prevents them from getting it wrong like i did.
Peace!! xoxo

[MONA20]

I'M GETTING MINE ON FRIDAY, AND AFTER READING, IM SO TERRIFIED,  I HATE PAIN. IMA  GO AHEAD AND TRY IT. AND ILL BE BACK TO LET U GUYS NO HOW IT WENT. WISH ME GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!

[JintyW]

I'm 45, never had children and had the Merina inserted 3 weeks tago oday.  It was an awful experience but I got through with my yoga breathing!  I've done it for painful period reasons and am not going to have kids now so would be v happy to stop bleeding once and for all.

I too have been in constant pain - worse than the period pain I usually experience which is saying something.  However, I was told to expect this - especially as I haven't ever given birth and therefore my cervix is much tighter.  I am also bleeding a lot which is a pain in itself but I was told to expect this and that it could last for up to 3 months so I will try to bear it in the hope that eventually my periods will lessen significantly (or maybe even stop altogether - hurrah!).

I have found it reassuring reading on here how many others are finding it tough at the beginning.  I also draw hope from the fact that my best friend had one fitted two years ago after having endometriosis and now she has nothing!!!  Hang in there is all I can say.  I have no pain today (but more blood); it's been a real rollercoaster but I am determined to give it a try.

[Moe26]

I had the Merina inserted on my 41st birthday. The first one defaulted and I have had 2 children. The pain was almost unbearable, I almost said "forget this" noise.  So the second one stayed in place but I Have cramps that go up into my back. My doctor said it was "normal" but none of her patients had ever complained so I felt like a total loser for complaining about them. Well, here I am 41 days later and it still hurts, I'm still bleeding. I have been bleeding for nearly 7 months, I might have had a 10 day break in between, I can't even think about sex because the pain. Also, I used a tampon and it forced its way out. My doctor's nurse hasn't called me back, I've left 4 messages and now I'm just plained mad. I feel gassy, crampy, moody...and my poor husband...geez

[gingermorgan202]

I had my IUD put in a month ago and it did hurt like hell and i had cramping for the rest of the day... but after that i had been fine until recently..Lately after I have sex with my boyfriend i have very severe cramps in my lower stomach radiating towards my butt...Has anyone only experienced the cramping after sex or is it all the time for you?

[swatan]

i dono about the cramping thing i have an IUD in for 5 months and i dont feel a thing and everyone is going thur allot pain and it makes me feel like mine isnt even working when they put it in i dint even notice they was done i have a 6 month old i dono if that has sumthing to do with it or not i had allot bleeding and stuff i think i had cramps for 1 day couple weeks after i got it done but i took pain meds once and i woke up n it was gone i hope mine is working

[samanthabee]

I've had an IUD for two years.  I'm 33 and haven't had children.  The insertion made me dizzy and nauseated but the worst part was the cramping.  The cramping pain has never improved although it comes and goes.  Right before my period, it is the worst with the kind of cramps that can knock me off my feet, stop me in the middle of a sentence, make me scream into a pillow.  I can time them like labor pains.  I also experience middle-of-the-cycle pain, too, maybe it is ovulation pain.  My periods are now barely 21-days apart and heavy with lots of clotting.  I've recently found some pain relief with Aleve but it doesn't make it all go away.  Everytime I've complained to my doctor, she's sent me in for an ultrasound to check the position of the IUD - it is always fine, not perforating, not being expelled.  Her solution is "Take it out!"  But, not only did it cost me $750, but the agony of the insertion, and the freedom from thinking about birth control...I don't want to give it up.  Since I'm pretty sure it isn't actually harming my body (Or is it??), I have so far been willing to put up with the pains.

[VagAnna]

I just got my Merina IUD TODAY, I had already previously tried about a month ago (about two weeks after I had a miscarriage).. that time I went in the Dr. couldn't get the tool through my cervix (which was sort of expected, as I am 19 years old, really small 100lbs, and have never had kids). So we went for round 2 today, which worked.. because I took these two hormone pills the Dr. gave me which opened up my cervix and made it able to go in.. I had to take them 12 hours ahead of time, which was last night, and I couldn't even get to sleep because of the horrible cramping. Today at the procedure, it was painful.. very painful.. since then, I'm still cramping, and bleeding...I have been laying down on the floor for the past four hours or so and that seemed to help.. when i sit up more, the cramps seem to kick in again.. I'm going to try a warm bath, and more ibuprofen! I am happy the procedure finally worked! This pain is totally worth it.
No Pills, No patch, No worries, No babies...YAY!!

[NayNay8]

I'd just like to chime in here.
I got my Merina 6 weeks ago and I experienced a very difficult insertion. I've had a child but it was 12 years ago and I've apparently recaptured my virginity or something because my cervix was closed up TIGHT. My Gyn had to "spread" it which hurt like ****! He said it was one of the most "uncomfortable" insertions he'd had. Understatement of the year, I'm sure. In other words, he'd be telling my story at the water cooler the next day!
A heating pad and Aleve was all the advice I was given about handling the pain. Like a couple of Loritabs would've been out of order for the love of Pete...
Lots of cramping the first four weeks, especially during ovulation, most of them were worse than period cramps and strangely low in my groin area (like right on my bikini line, where the legs of my panties go... weird!) But only two days were bad enough that they interrupted my daily life.
Lots of brown, ropy discharge which freaked me out until I read on several other message boards that it was normal. And Holy ****, don't put in a tampon - that almost killed me!
And, super weird, it hurt to wear tight jeans or to bear down when having a bowel movement or sneezing or straining to pick something up... LIKE A KNIFE IN MY GUT.
But I think I'm over the hump now. I just had my second period (first started the day before insertion) and it was VERY LIGHT and fairly painless. WOO HOO!
This weekend I plan to try having SEX and see how that works out. WISH ME LUCK!! (please God, no cramps, I'm begging you!)

[Lisa52]

I've had the Merina IUD placed in 2005 and I have contemplated on taking it out every month since then. I've had bad cramps, acne, and moodiness for the last three years. The day of the insertion was like an abortion! It hurt too much that I wondered if I can ever have sex again. Well, the benefit of the IUD is that it really guarantees "No Worries!" So, no worries about getting pregnant for the last three years but the cramping and the constant acne problems are persisting so I'm getting it out this week and I hope it's not going to hurt too much! Has anyone else had ACNE PROBLEMS from the IUD?

[Cdoll]

I have never had children and I had Mirena put in on the next to last day of my regular birth control pills, it was Friday 6/27/08, (this just so happend to be my annual exam, so I requested the Mirena) I was due to get my period the following Monday or Tuesday. The insertion was way more painful than I had expected. The Dr. did call in an antibiotic for me to take the night before and morning of and later that night, plus an 800 Ibuprofin for the morning of. So the pain, OMG, EXTREMELY PAINFUL. I have never experienced anything like it. I nearly passed out and vomited. So, she gets it in there and my body cramps up and POP, it falls out! Are you kidding me!! I opted to try again, because, I figured, whats the worse that could happen, I pass out? I'm at the docs already. So we do it again, I go through this horrible cramping then intense pinching pain that I cant even describe, it was deep inside me, bout 2 inches below my belly button. It worked this time. I had to stay laying on the table for a good 15 minutes before I got up. She wrote me a script for more 800 IB's, and sent me on my way. She said I was all set and didnt need to come back until my yearly exam next year!! I thought that was wierd. Anyway, that day was horrible with cramps. The severe pain was gone but I had the cramps all day. (BTW, I have been on bc pills for 20 yrs. no cramps, light periods, always). But when I woke up Saturday I was OK. I have been OK since, as far as cramps go. Very sporadic and not crippling, thank God. But I have had spotting since then. I wasnt sure since I was supposed to get my period last week anyway, it wasnt like my regular periods, lighter, but still now today, 11 days later, I am spotting, I need to wear a panty liner. I am affraid to have sex or use a tampon. I wonder when the bleeding will stop?? And, sometimes I feel like I have difficulty breathing. Just a tightness in my upper chest area, not always, but I am noticing it now where I have ever have in my life! Is this the Mirena! I am reading so much around the internet maybe I am just paranoid. I guess I will wait until next month and see how the bleeding goes, and see how my breathing feels. I really really want this, but I am also scared it will fall out and i wont know it!! What if I cant feel the strings? I tried once so far and nothing. How do I know what my cervix feels like to know i am up far enough to try and feel for the strings!! Oh, so many questions. Has anyone had breathing or chest tightness with Mirena? Again, I have never given birth, and was on a lo dose bc pill for many years.

[Amatalah]

i am a getting my Merina IUd inserted Sept 4, 2008. i heard a lot of people complaining about the cramps that lasts upto 3 months that will eventually resolve.

my second child is 3 month old, exclusively breastfed...i am also goig back to school full time for my fourth year. Given my situation, does any one think i can deal with the pain/ study and focus on my school?

my other question does Merina IUD interfere with milk supply.

thanks

[tara20]

hey i had the merina put in about three months ago a month after i had my baby...now i'm getting all the signs of being pregnant again!! i checked it its still in place,all my test say negative is there a chance i could be? help someone give me some insight please!!

[tara20]

also i've asked my doctor about it but he plays kinda dumb i don't know what to think.... anyone know of that happing?

[Cdoll]

Well, I am heading into 30 days with Mirena, and as you can see from my above post I was quite concerened with shortness of breath. I can say that I feel fine. I have no cramps, I have not had a full period, just spotting the first 2-3 weeks, but thats gone too. And my breathing issues seem much better. The 27th of July will be the 30 dyas, it is also 30 days from the last day I took my birth control pills, so I dont know if I will get a period or not, so far no signs of it!! Which is great as far as Im concerned. But to all who have worries, so did I in the beginning, but now evrything seems fine! Good Luck

[lainey1979]

has anyone had a lack of Sex drive or lack of energy.  I have had my IUD in for a year and I assumed the lack of sex and energy were due to having 3 kinds under the age of 5 however, i am wondering if it could be the IUD. My doctor says that it has no effect but I feel like I wake up in the mornings and I am ready for a nap. I have never been like this before.

[jendsley0109]

I have had my Merina for about 2 1/2 months. I have 3 children- thought it would be a good idea to go ahead and get one ;-) I'm not really sure how I feel about it yet. It was a little more painful to insert than I thought. Then I had cramping for a couple days. I was bleeding non stop for what seemed like forever... a month, give or take a week. The only thing I'm worried about now are the cramps I'm having. They're horrible!!! It truely feels like the beginning stages of labor!!! The cramps even hurt into my bottom! I'm not sure how long I can keep this up. I figured I'd give it 4-5 months. The plus of the Merina is not having to worry about taking a pill everyday and the fear of getting pregnant for the fourth time- which is almost enough to change my mind and keep it ;-) We'll see. I hope this helps someone trying to choose or wondering about how other people feel about The Marina IUD.

[apt4mac]

I have had the Merina for about 3 months. I really love it except for 2 things - i now gain like 7 pounds of water weight around my period and I my breasts have gotten bigger. I was a size D cup before, but now I am a bigger D or DD. My breasts are thick and heavy. Is anyone else having htis problem?

[Ali0905]

I wanted to say I am a RN, 34 have had two vaginal births, survivor of cerical cancer, with severe endometriosis. I have lived in agony since I was 13 with my periods, the cramping and pain was unbelievable. During labor I found that was easier than my periods. finaly got a Mirena about a year ago, absolutly the best thing I have ever done. It was uncomfortable at insertion, my ob/gyn prescribed a pain pill, valium, and 800mg motrin to take 1 hour before my husband went with. VERY good idea, I am a wimp. Now light periods with pantyliner or junior tampons! I spot occasionally and have cramps not bad enough to take anything. Sex is great! I do not understand why women say they have all these side effects? The Mirena is only Progesterone and only works locally to the intruterine tissue. it is not absorbed through the body like the pill.
It was like a more involved pap. But the young girls who do not have kids are going to hurt during insertion. If you already have bad cramps with your period it is not any worse.

[sarasbearz]

I am 27 with 2 kids & 10 months ago decided to have mirena - It hurt like "HELL" getting it in. I actually passed out. WIMP!!!  Anywho I had the normal cramping etc for the 1st 3 months & my always light periods nearly went away over the next 6-7 months.  For the past 3 days however I have been cramping & it is soooooo uncomfortable, why now would I be cramping like this?  I was expecting a period but nothing has come???

[may837]

I am a 37 year old with one child.  I had Mirena inserted 2005 and shortly remove in a month. I began to swell over my entire body.  Six months later I was diagnosed with colon cancer and neuroendocrine tumor of the pancreas.
I don't recommend this to anyone!

Still battling the neuroendocrine mess!

[Valk65]

I am 43,no children,and have Merina about 7 weeks. Ive found that I have shortness of breath as you mentioned. I workout 3-4 times weekly & am rather active, so its new to me. Ive had alot of side effects so my doctor & I have agreed to see in about 4 months if they tapper off as an adjustment period. At this point Im undecided about keeping it in. Im moody & thats unusual and I feel tired out quicker. Ive had low blood sugar shakiness and hunger. I eat a very healthy diet so thats not the issue - simple carbs are a bad idea on Merina by the way. I have acne once a month around when the period would be- but currently no period,just spotting. My skin has been clear since my early 20s so thats dissapointing,the doctor felt that might clear up as the body adjust.I feel puffy & bloated around the belly & seemed to have gained some belly fat & that has me worried. The first month my libido was gone but thats returned and the orgasms have returned to full strength,they felt diminished at first but that may have been from the residual pain of having the cervix dialated & general soreness in that region. Back pain,some leg pain has gotten better, and my vision immediately readjusted so that my contact lens were to strong & had to be lowered.The vision changes may actually be why some women have headaches & dont realize it,it reduced my prescription 50, thats a major shift. Im not entirly happy with it or unhappy -as yet. No birth control hormones are going to be completely free of side effects but my options were limited due to heavy bleeding, so I will ride it out a while longer & see if it strikes a reasonable balance. If the Levonorgstrel is 20 ug daily from the total fill of the IUD/IUS, and a portion of that only gets into th blood stream its still less than oral BC pills.

[BrookiePie]

Ok so iv'e had my iud for about 6wks now....at first i hated it! I was cramping sooo bad, especially after sex and during a BM....but it lasted for 2wks  or so and now I love it . I can;t feel it at all and i don't have a period.

[Ivy34]

I have had my iud for about 2 years and I still have bad cramps during my period. I still bleed heavy. I have bad acne which I never had problems before. My moods are up and down. I'm losing hair and I gained 20 pounds. I don't feel the strings. I feel like I have a bladder infection all the time. I don't know what to do. I know I'm not pregnant and my doctor said I should be fine. I have 4 children and I think I will have it taken out and get fixed.

[kjdiemler]

I had natural birth and just got my IUD a few weeks ago.  OMG I thought I was in pure labor again.  It was awful.  I had trouble driving home, stopped for ice cream and a frappuccino before going straight to bed for the remainder of the day.  Ugh.  Cramps have been better since then.  Some days I don't notice it much; other days (like today) the cramps suck.  I'm hoping in another month or two I will have forgotten about it completely.  Oh and as a reply to one of the other posts on here:  you were concerned because you couldn't feel the string.  After one month of having Mirena the string softens and shrivels up purposefully so you won't notice it.  At least that's what my OB said.

[kjdiemler]

Oh and they also had trouble inserting mine and had to basically dilate my cervix to get it in (that sucked).  I still hope it's worth it . . . . who could ask for a better BC if I can rid myself of periods and not have to take a pill, patch or shot for five years??!!  I've tried them all (pills, dep. shot, the ring and the patch).

[draquel]

I had my IUD put in yesterday and it was the just like getting a pap, it went quick no pain. My doc said because it is a hormonal IUD it is ok not to have a period. And everyone is different some might bleed heavily some may not ever bleed. And if you feel uncomfortable and you can tell you have the IUD it is not inserted right, you should go about your life and never feel anything.

[stamper1800]

I am 30 and I just had mine inserted today.  I had to be dilated as the opening was too small.  I had some pain with the insertion- when she clamped the cervix to hold on and when it was actually inserted- but I had expected that with having no children.  I've been on the Depo shot for almost 8 years and loved that (no period).  I was off the shot for about a month and have had spotting for the last month.  I only decided to switch for the long term 5 year maintenance instead of every 3 months.  I'm hoping the IUD makes my period go away again.  Today I am very crampy- at times more extreme.  I've had a fan blowing on me for refreshing air- it seems to help.  I am to go back in 3 months to see how I am doing.  I hope that the posts I've ready of cramps for several months are not the case for me and that the period is non existant or very light since I've been lucky to avoid that over the last 8 years.  I will repost to this group in a few months to provide more information to the girls wishing to get this- I hope it was a good choice!

[vic_sears]

First of all, your dr should have told you that its easier to insert the iud shortly after birth.  So for thos of you that have never had kids, yes its going to hurt more.  Second they tell you in the info packet that you can have bleeding for 3-5 months after having it put in.  So that shouldn't be a shock for you.  And the only time I have had pain so bad that I threw up was when they gave me my epidural when I had my twins.  I honestly don't remember the pain so bad that I couldn't handle having the thing put in.  I drove myself home from the dr, and went right back to taking care of my twins the same afternoon.  I think if you didn't know what to expect you shouldn't have gotten then thing in the first place.  Sorry that might be a little cold, but you should know what your getting before letting a dr do anything to you.  I wouldn't let a surgeon cut me open without knowing what he was taking out first.

[kcobble]

I had my IUD put in a couple weeks ago. It didnt hurt at all when it was put in, but later that day I started cramping. I have been having cramps and bleeding ever since. Hopefuly it wont take a full three months for my body to get used to it.

[bandeapart]

You're right, vic_sears, that is pretty cold.  I don't think anyone takes this lightly, and in my case, I researched the Mirena for three years before pulling the trigger and insertion was still the most painful experience of my life, so bad that I had to pull over on the way home and vomit.  Everyone's body is different, and while it's great for you that you had no issues afterward and were able to care for your twins immediately, you should not judge those who had a harder time with it.  I also think almost everyone who is sharing their experience that has not given birth has acknowledged that they knew it would be harder going in, but when your physician simply states that you will have some "discomfort," it hardly prepares one for the experience.  "Discomfort" is monthly period cramps or a pulled muscle.  Mirena insertion was not discomfort, it was full-tilt pain.  Again, kudos to you for being such a trooper, but your experience is not everyone's.  Have a little compassion.

[Squirrelbait]

I am 42 married and never been pregnant and had the Mirena inserted 3 days ago.  I had talked to 2 girlfriends who had it done but HAD given birth and neither of them had a problem or pain.  So I was confident that I would be ok maybe some cramping.  My insertion went fine, Dr had prescribed a cervix softener.  She gave my a pad to wear after which was good there was some red blood but nothing scarry.  About 5 minutes after everything was done I was sitting in her office and got dizzy and cold sweats and had to have a BM. I made it to the car for a 10 min drive home and had a girlfriend talk to me the whole way bc it was beyond anything I had ever experienced with bad cramps from a few small fibroids.  I was delerious, soaking wet and had the chills. My lower abdomen, my THIGHS, writhing in pain, crying like I had never cried before, my fingers went numb and tingly.  My friend on the car phone had had 3 children and she said it sounded like labor pains not just cramping.  I agree it was horrendous!!! I couldn't pull over bc I could only think about getting fetal.  Made it home and writhed in bed for 45 min rubbing my upper thighs.  Got the 800 mg ibuprofen down (wished I had taken it before). Every hour it lessed to where after 3 hours I could do a task and then lie down again with a heat pack.  Next day I just relied on 2 Alleve every 6-9 hours and the cramping is more like one long cramp, more like constipation and my left side is a bit achey (achy) still.  Tired, feel weak in the thighs and upper arms.  I have only had to wear a mini pad and now the 3rd day nothing.  I did notice some brown stringy blood in the end.  Well, I don't need to worry about getting pregnant bc sex is the last thing I think about right now, I just want my energy back and the lower abdomen, bloated, constipated feeling and cramps to go away.  I too am hoping that it dissipates with time.  But if you have never given birth you MUST get the softener, MUST take 800 Mg Ibuprofen PRIOR to the procedure and MUST have someone drive you home.  I was a danger to mankind.  

[Ally304]

Wow wow wow.  I am in shock over these posts.  I researched Mirena before I went through with the procedure (11 days ago) but THANK GOD I didn't see this thread prior to the procedure!  I can't believe what some of you poor woman have gone through!  I honestly don't think I would have done it if I read this before hand!!  I found this site because for the past two days I have felt so bloated and constipated and I don't know why.  I was guessing it may be related to the Mirena so I thought I do a little internet research (I actually came home and did an enema -sorry!!- because i cant take it.)  I've gained a lot of weight in the past year and feel extra bloated and fat today (which is super depressing) so i hope all of this subsides.  
I guess it helps to know that I'm 31 w/ no kids.  If its any consolation to the woman out there that are interested in getting it and haven't had a vaginal birth, the procedure really wasn't that bad for me.  I took a pill to dilate the cervix several hours beforehand.  Went on the last day (if not the day after...) of my period and I certainly felt uncomfortable DURING the procedure -cramping- but as soon as my OB/GYN was done I got dressed and drove home.  I was a little off that night but not too bad.  Ever since I've had a bloody discharge (no pads or tampons required) which is annoying and the bloating is starting to bother me but I'm going to stick it out.  I think its definitely worth!  The only thing i'm worried about is a)weight gain (have enough lbs on me now!) and b) acne...we'll see...its only been 11 days!

[Squirrelbait]

I have had the Mirena now for 1 month.  I am seeing my Dr tomorrow to discuss removing it.  The weight gain is depressing and I look 5 months pregnant in my belly and thighs.  5 pounds in less than a month and I have tripled the exercise and eaten half as much.  My nipples are so tender -no discharge yet.  The brown stringy discharge has stopped and now a milky discharge from my vagina.  Lower abdominal pain comes and goes, feels like someone is poking at my ovaries.  I cramp after strenuous exercise, haven't had sex yet, partially a lack of desire and partially fear.  Mild acne is starting on my lower face.  Tampons don't stay in as well.  My first period after the procedure lasted longer than before like 7 days and was mild.  But the weight gain has me very worried and depressed.  Will report back again...

[ruby123574]

I have a question i'm 24 yrs. old and i'm using the mirena for about year now. But now i don't have my periods but i still have the cramps and bloating only is that normal.

[Jen31482]

All these posts scare me! I have had the IUD put in a week ago. Insertion hurt, but not unbearable. Just cramping. The cramping went away after two days, but today is horrible. No bleeding, just the brown slimy stuff. Is it ok to have the cramps come back like this? I thought cramping was only supposed to last for a couple of days. I am so excited to get through all of this and be period and cramp free. I also have fibroids so I am ready for something to hinder those. I just thought the cramping was supposed to go away after a couple of days.

Also, now I feel like I am getting sick. Really heavy feeling, worn out, sore throat. That is not a sign of an infection from the IUD is it? Any help would be great. I feel bad calling the doctor and sounding like a baby.

[EmmlinsMom]

I'm 22 and have a 9 month old daughter (via c-section) and I had mine put in yesterday and yes it was VERY painful to put in but once i got home and slept for a couple hours the pain was gone.

[tia700]

Had my IUD placed in July and I have one child via C-section in April. I agree with EmmlinsMom in that it was very painful for that day, but I haven't had any problems since. Only thing is my periods have not yet gotten any lighter, maybe after time but no cramping, hair loss, weight gain or mood swings.

[SarahSue81]

I had a ParaGard inserted last May. I have never given birth and the insertion wasn't painful at all. I remember thinking "why didn't I do this sooner." My period was quite heavy for about 8 months and then went back to normal. When I went for annual exam this year I had to get an ultrasound done. The doctor found out that my IUD had "moved lower" and said that the best thing to do would be to remove it and put a new one in. ( I should also mention that the doctor that inserted the ParaGard and my current Gyno are not the same person. The first one moved to another practice.)

I went in to get the ParaGard removed. I told her that I was quite nervous about having it removed and not knowing what to expect. She told me that everyone says it feels like "taking out a dry tampon." She then proceeded to remove it, only to find me screaming in pain, and the IUD not moving. She tried twice more to remove it until the strings BROKE!! With tears streaming down my face she referred me to a Gyno that she works with. To make a long story shorter....MY IUD WAS EMBEDDED!!!! I had to have surgery to have it removed. And I mean going to the hospital, being put under anesthesia and having it surgically removed. The doctor said that basically the ParaGard should not have been inserted because it was actually too big for my uterus and had twisted sideways and embedded itself. ( I was still able to check my string the entire time) When I had it put in the doctor never "sounded" or measured my uterus and I guess basically made it fit.

I had to wait 3 weeks to have a new IUD put in. My current doctor said to use Mirena because it is actually about 1 cm. shorter than the ParaGard. I went on Wednesday ( 2 days ago ) and had the Mirena Inserted. The sounding was the most painful part. The worst cramps that I have had in my life, but still tolerable and only lasted a few minutes. Another bad cramp during  actual insertion and that was it. Not too bad....but it was painful for a bit. I was on the verge of starting my period when I had it put in, and have yet to bleed any. I had MAJOR cramps for about 6 hours afterwards that kept me bed-ridden, but subsided after that. I'm still having cramps, but have yet to bleed. And the cramps now feel like period cramps. Going to stay with this one because I love the convience of having an IUD.

[jenperki]

I had my Mirena IUD inserted on Monday, and I am still experiencing strong cramping. My insertion was horrible...much like described above. I am 40 and never had children, and my doctor didn't tell me to take ANYTHING. I also was dizzy and felt like I was going to pass out. An ultrasound after the procedure showed it was in the right place, but they told me cramps would subside after a half hour. I am three days into this and don't think I could stand getting it taken out, so I am going to try and deal with the cramps. Thank you to all the women who posted here...I now feel much better that this is "normal".

[rowena123]

hi,i am new to this!i had the merina inserted in april this year,i have 3 kids and since the last birth 2 years ago i have had very heavy periods.so the merina was a good option.the problem is i got my last period on the 13th oct and still have it.i have been to a+e 3 times with severe bleeding,clotting and wicked cramps,they just sent me home with tablets to stop the bleeding.i went to my gp 2 days ago and she said she would take it out but couldnt find it.had an xray to see if the merina was there and nothing showed up.i am now still bleeding and i have been out of work 2 weeks out of the last 3 weeks.she has put me back on the pill to see if the bleeding subsides and if it doesnt i will have to have a d+c,i am really fed up with all this!!!!