Mirena side effects

Let me just say that like so many other women on this site I have been stressing over the predicament that Mirena has put us in. Yes, I was warned about having not had children that I am not a good candidate for it but I am in my early twenties and don't want children any time soon and I had been on Depo shots for as long as my Dr. would let me, so don't judge. The fact of the matter is that for the past two years since the insertion I have wondered what the hell is wrong with me!!! I have been extremely moody, depressed, and have had several strange symptoms including headaches, acne, weight gain, and the overall feeling of someone in the nineties instead of being 22. I have never been a lazy person or someone prone to acne. I have been to the doctor several times and she keeps saying it's not Mirena; I'm not convinced!!! I have not had a menstrual cycle since I started depo five years ago, you would think I would be a happy person but I'm not. I don't know what to do, I'm afraid to take it out and be wrong about it and get pregnant. But on the other hand I'm severely depressed about the weight gain and the more and more I exercise and diet doesn't matter. I have gained over 20 pounds and gone up 2 dress sizes, because of this I don't feel like having sex because I'm tired or I don't feel sexy. My marriage is suffering from my mood swings, lack of libido, and not wanting to do fun things people my age do. I've lost several friendships by not wanting to leave the house, I feel like it's starting to take over my entire life. I thought it was just me having these problems but the more I read other peoples posts the more I feel like I'm not alone. You don't have to be forty and have 3 kids to know what it feels like to have symptoms like this and be told over and over it's just in your head. Thanks to every one who wrote on this web site, it's comforting to know you're not the only one having problems. When I get it removed I will post again with how it has changed.

I am having strong cramps this past week and I've had my Mirena in for almost 2 months. Wish I had seen these message boards before hand. My doctor did tell me it would take between 3-4 months for everything to settle down. Don't think I want to wait that long. Now I found out yesterday that I have an ovarian cyst...something that I didn't have 2 months ago. It really is an evil little device, isn't it? Too all of you that are having positive experiences...I wish it was me!

Increase in POCS and obesity due to young-age use of progesterones?2 March 2006

Ellen C G Grant,
physican and medical gynaecologist
Kingston-upon-Thames, KT2 7JU, UK
Send response to journal:
Re: Increase in POCS and obesity due to young-age use of progesterones?
Professor Balen and colleagues write that PCOS is increasing because more women are becoming obese.1 Progesterone use can cause rapid weight gain and many adolescent girls therefore refuse to continue taking the Pill.
In an attempt to cut the numbers of unplanned teenage pregnancies more longer-acting forms of progesterone are being used. Unfortunately depo medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) caused significantly greater weight gain with longer use in adolescent girls than the Pill. After 18 months obese girls gained 9 kg while non-obese girls gained 4 kg. The authors considered that the potential contribution of DMPA to severe obesity in adolescents is concerning.2 DMPA is reported to have no inherent oestrogenic or androgenic effects, which suggests that weight gain induced by DMPA is a progestogenic effect.
Use of progestogens can also increase the risk of PCOS. In the Walnut Creek Contraceptive Drug Study significantly more oral contraceptive users aged 18-39 had non-functioning ovarian cysts than never users (50/7506 with 4/2556).3 Fewer functioning cysts would be expected in users of progestogens designed to stop ovaries functioning. Use of fertility drugs can also cause ovarian cysts.
Progestogen use also increases the risk of diabetes. In a study of 210 women taking 150 µg levonorgestrel and 30 µg ethinyl oestradiol, 60% had stopped by 15 months and only 8% were current users at 3 years. Glucose tolerance tests deteriorated into the diabetic rangein 6 women but improved when oral contraceptives were stopped for side-effects including weight gain.4
It is reasonable that obese women with PCOS are not given fertility drugs risking more ovarian cyst development and further weight gain. Advice about weight reducing high protein/low allergy diets and life-style changes is preferable.
1 Balen AH, Dresner M, Scott EM, Drife JO. Should obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome receive treatment for infertility? BMJ 2006; 332: 434-435.
2 Bonny AE, Ziegler J, Harvey R, et al. Weight gain in obese and nonobese adolescent girls initiating depot medroxyprogesterone, oral contraceptive pills, or no hormonal contraceptive method. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2006; 160: 40-5.
3 Ramcharan S. Pellegrin RR, Hsu J-P, et al. Walnut Creek Contraceptive Drug Study 1981; Center for Population Research Monograph; Vol 111: P 162.
4 Wynn V. Effects of duration of low-dose oral contraceptive administration on carbohydrate metabolism. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1982: 142: 739-43.
Competing interests: None declared

Thanks, Mo! ;)

I had my Mirena removed 6-25-08. I only got it in March. I have had one problem after another. I had a weird bulge under my breasts that stuck out further than them when I decided it has to go. That bulge disappered the day after having it removed. I also had MAJOR hair loss, fingers twitching, joint pain, migraines, my face looked greasy an hour after washing, and visual disturbances where I actually felt like I was seeing through drunk eyes, especially at work. This thing should be off the market. I feel 99.9% better than I did a week ago. Oh, I'm also not a turbo bitch to everyone anymore either. I am actually pleasant to be around. It was the best decision ever made to get this beast out of me. What a waste of money though!! Good luck to everyone else.

I had Mirena put in five days ago. I have had cramping off and on. I finally did a complete workout on my pilates reformer and did just fine. I have yet to see what having sex with my husband is like with this thing in me. I am a little scared about pain. I do feel bloated. I will keep everyone up to date on how I am doing. I sure wish I had come across this website before I decided to put this in.

hi all

I had mirena inserted in 12/07 after my 3rd child. Last week I experience an anxity attack , felt restless, heart beating. felt like I couldnt breath. Havent had my period for four months. Lost of sex drive, depression, and boy or boy MOOD swings. I feel like i'm not myself dont like the feeling. Having it removed. My doctors states that not the problem but I'm convinvce it is after reading all this side affects. Keep you posted.

I have had the Mirena for 1 1/2 yrs now. Within the past six months I have started to develop acne, all the while my period was starting to fade less and less every month. Now, the acne is severe and the periods are completely gone. I'm just wondering if this is all related. I have scheduled a appointment with a skin clinic, and also called my gyno. I am waiting on a reply from the nurse at the gynos office to see if I need to go on to the skin clinic, or if I just need to get this removed. I have never had more then a pimple or two on my face at one time. Now, I have them completely covering my hair line, almost like a rash.

I have Mirena for little over a year. My body fells tired and pregnant. I didn't gain weight but didn't lose the baby fat either. I am going to the OBGYN in the next hour for the removal. I am scared for the results that I will get right after, ( like heavy painful bleeding)... but my hope is not to have this thing hurt my uterus or have a pregnancy that could be complicated for the use of the iud.I will keep a diary here, hope to help somebody. Please, girls, wish me luck

I got Mirena put in May 16th. I had it put in while I was on my period, the insertion wasn't bad at all. Felt like a period cramp. It was over in a few minutes. I felt fine. Went home and did some laundry. I bled for another week after getting it in. Then the next week I spotted. Two weeks after that I was fine. Then my period came back June 16th. I had it again for 2 weeks. Which brings me to today pretty much. The last two days I didn't bleed, and today I started bleeding again. I know the doctor said that the first 3-6 months there will be bleeding off and on. Everything is going to be out of whack until my body gets used to the foreign object inside of me.

That is really the only issue I am having. I'll have maybe one sensation of cramping and then nothing for the rest of the day. I've lost about 7 lbs since I got it in. I'm going to hold out and see what happens. I hope after 6 months my periods will be regular.

Well ladies it has been 3 and a half weeks since i had my mirena removed, no more cramps! =) ,my energy levels are slowly coming back,and i haven't been as moody,i feel like everything is going back to normal some things slower than others but over all i feel so much better. Hopefully this site will help other women like it helped me.

I had Mirena put in Oct 07 and loved it at first. After a while instead of having my period for 4-5 days I started to have it for 3 weeks!! It would be on 2 days then off for 2! SO ANNOYING!! Not to mention I have been dealing with a yeast infection for the last 4 months. My doctor told me it might be due to mirena. So I tried medicines to cure it and nothing worked. Then about a week ago I started to have cramps, back pain, and headaches. So I found this website and discovered I have been having a lot of the other symptoms other women are having! The doctor never mentioned that any of this could be related to mirena! So I went in and had it removed. It may all be in my mind, but I feel better all ready and relieved it is gone!!

I posted here just over a week ago and had depression, diarrhea, headaches, moodiness and again - DEPRESSION from the Mirena. I am a new woman now that it is out!!!! I literally feel so great - depression gone - everything almost totally gone and now I know the Mirena was the cause of all of my problems. I am sooooo glad that it is gone!!! I feel wonderful again!!

I had mine put in last August(07). Everything went fine and I have had no discomfort what so ever,Now I do have the small cramps letting me know when my period should start but its not a big deal. I got mine put in because of heavy periods. I have 3 kids and my tubes have been tied since 02. Periods are OBSOLETE and couldn't be happier,however,there is a small side effect I have had for about 6 months now. Very, Very low libido, I am talking once a month if my husband is lucky. I have been blaming it on stress of a 5 & 7 year old.The low libido isn't bothering me a bit but it is causing problems for my husband.Other than that,I think the Mirena is great!!

I had my mirena coil fitted at my 8 week post-partum check after my second child, this was feb 07. I was breast feeding until july so didn't resume periods until last aug. When they did resume they were so heavy blood would drip onto the floor - and occurred every 2 weeks without fail. I was assured this would settle down, but by April this year I'd had enough. I was referred for a scan to check for cysts - nothing, then sent to a gynecologist who decided to remove the coil...except she couldn't find it. Another scan showed it was not there and I'd probably expelled it, but I had to have an abdominal x-ray just in case. Two weeks ago I finally got the results - my uterus has been perforated and the coil now lies in my abdominal cavity just near my left hip. I am in constant discomfort, and sometimes searing pain (I had to miss work today because the pain was so bad it made me sick) Yet I have to wait a full 2 months to have the operation under general anesthetic to remove the damn thing. I just want it out of me, and am unclear as to whether it can do any further damage. The consultant told me they can fit a new one whilst I'm under, but I'm having serious doubts as to whether I want another one. Interestingly I've steadily put on 4 - 5lbs since October but yet haven't changed my lifestyle at all.

I'm very curious to read all these side effects! I have some strange symptoms going on and it only occurred to me after weeks of them that they may be caused by the Mirena IUD. Apart from constant annoying spotting and a bit of a dull ache in the pelvis now and then, I thought I had no other symptoms but I can see that my fuzziness in the head, low grade anxiety and stress that I've been feeling lately may be related. I've also been ravenous and am putting on weight but can't seem to stop eating junk. My energy levels are low and I have body aches and fatigue and find it hard to work out. But has anyone had achy joints in the hands and feet? .....tight tendons in the ankles & archilles and sore bones in the feet.......a feeling like swelling/tightness in the joints in the hands? I thought I was getting arthritis but maybe it's related to the IUD. I'd appreciate any feedback. Thanks

I am so sorry that so many of you are experiencing such terrible side effects. Honestly, Mirena has been so awesome for me. I have had absolutely no side effects, except for the slight cramping in the beginning. After 3 weeks, the cramping disappeared. I did gain weight but only because I have been overeating a ton...I tend to do this at times. I went on the Atkins diet one month ago and have already lost 12 pounds. So, I know the Mirena is not affecting my weight. I have had it in for about one year and my period completely stopped, until today. Today I had some spotting and I feel sore. I think my weight loss may have something to do with the sudden period. I'm not complaining. Strangely, I kind of missed my period...LOL. I hope you all find something that works for you!

I have had Mirena for almost 5 years...and am having it removed to put in a fresh one on Wednesday. I love it and have never had any negative side affects. I have recommended it to friends and family, all of whom have had no side effects either. I love it, love it, love it!

I had my Mirena inserted 3 weeks ago to help me with the pain and extended bleeding I have with two fibroids. I have not had children. My insertion was the most painful experience of my life and the GY had to give me a local before I passed out and screamed the practice down. For women who have not had children, insist on a local and do not experience what I went through. Since the insertion I have good days and bad days, in regards to cramping and really feel that the IUD moves. For a person with fibroids when the IUD moves and touches these, it makes you whole lower back and gut ache. I have had reduced bleeding but the pain associated with it moving outweighs the benefits.I also have nausea associated with the cramps. I go back to my GY this week to see whether it has actually moved and discuss my options. I really feel it is poking me.

I had it inserted after my second child (she is now 3-1/2). It took 6 months to NOT feel it anymore. I have not had my period. However, at the time of the month, I get all the side effects. Is it b/c my body doesn't release the blood? Twice I have felt tht thing poking me to the point where I could hardly walk. I have a pooch which won't go away, headaches, dizziness, ab pain off and on to the point where I bend over to feel better. I am making an appt to take this dumb thing out. It is not worth it. My breasts get extremely tender too. And sometimes during sex, it pokes me and hurts. Its not worth it. All of you have confirmed it.

I have had the Mirena IUD for 3 weeks... I had 1 significant cramp when it was inserted... otherwise I have had no cramps. I DO however have a major yeast infection that is bugging me.. Otherwise I love the idea of no worries about birth control and pregnancy issues. So far I'm very happy I had it inserted.

Just had Mirena put in two days ago (Friday). This is Sunday and tried to workout and couldn't finish. I usually do pilates on a reformer everyday. I feel tired and crampy. I never looked up Mirena on the internet before I had it inserted and feel scared to death. I don't want to bloat or constantly spot. I have a great sex life with my husband and constantly having to worry about bleeding will make my sex life a disaster. I will keep everyone up to date on what I am going through. I sure hope I don't have any problems with this. I was pregnant with triplets 6 weeks ago and lost them and decided I better get on some great birth control. My doctor thought this would be great for me to go on. Lets all hope the cramping and light bleeding stops.

Read my symptoms first; at the bottom it will tell you how long I had the IUD and the time line of the symptoms.

constant pelvic discomfort
(sometimes to the point where Advil usage doesn't even help)
("zaps" or "pings" of pain...light lightening bolts)
almost constant bleeding
(sometimes with clots - in differing sizes)
(coloring can be bright red to burgundy and brown)
(odor from the bleeding is very noticeable)
immediate weight gain
(this includes severe abdominal protrusion)
(I belly dance, & the costume I had just worn 2 weeks prior to insertion no longer fit)
severe swelling of the extremities
(hands usually do swell in hot weather, however, I've never had my feet and lower legs swell up like this - I had elephant feet/legs)
immediate acne issues
(my skin is always clear except for a few during my period)
moodiness
brain fog
(I'm a bookkeeper, & I noticed an immediate problem with my making stupid mistakes or taking longer than normal to resolve usual issues in this regard)
clumsiness
(could be attributed to the brain fog)
breast tenderness
(feels like someone's constantly squeezing/poking them)
movement of the IUD
(I could feel that it was out of position; it was more on my right side and caused ALOT of discomfort)

Here's the kicker, ladies. This was all within 1 WEEK of USE.

I demanded removal of this nasty thing & the GYN office refused.
After two more weeks of hell, I insisted, & they finally removed it.

This is what I experienced AFTER the removal:
Immediate relief in my pelvic area, BUT, still having pelvic pain.
INTENSE bleeding & clotting. To the point where I bled through my clothing at work (yes, I was using tampons & heavy pads).
The GYN's office didn't seem concerned; they said this was my body's "normal" reaction. (yeah, right). I finally stopped bleeding a good 5+ days later.
Even more breast tenderness.
Weight gain/bloat has not gone away. (I'm quite active)
Still experiencing brain fog.
Acne is starting to dissipate.

I have a ****** Group set up to shout to the world about this horrid device; look for: mirenajustsayno

Report your experience directly to Mirena; they have a contact # to report an "Adverse Reaction". From there, file a report with the varying health organizations.

On another note, I also had several ultrasounds done at the GYN's office prior to the insertion. The DR stated I had no ovarian cysts, no fibroids, BUT, my uterus was overly large. I sounded at a 10 as opposed to the usual 8. I was told it didn't matter, that I was a good candidate. He also stated that I had "a little endo".
(The reason for my use was to control the heavy bleeding during my period, along with the severe cramps.)

Well, I had some ultrasounds done at the hospital late last week, about 10 days after the removal of the Mirena. This is the result:
irregular complex cyst on my left ovary
unusually thickened uterine wall (no other explanation other than it was thicker than average)
It was noted that the series needs to be repeated.
(I'm assuming they want to look deeper)
Note that I have not resolved whether or not there was any perforation from the IUD moving out of place; the GYN never ran an ultrasound to verify it - they just did a regular exam & told me "it was still in my uterus". (that exam initiated severe bleeding for several days as well)

Good luck and let me know how you're doing!

And, yes, I do have several friends that LOVE their Mirena.

I have had my Mirena since 2/04... reading all these makes me think I have side effects! LOL Just Kidding, I love the Mirena. In the beginning I did have a few side effects but given time they have evened out. Now I just enjoy a day or two of spotting per month and not having to deal with dirty leaking pads!
I'm not discrediting anyone's experience, I know after having my kids I was quite hormonal for the first year or so while trying to get back to normal. This was the same with my 1st & 2nd child--one with Mirena post baby and the other w/ nothing post baby...
I had the hair loss, depression, mood swings, etc. w/ my first child when I did not have the Mirena--which is what makes me think that maybe some of this stuff is just normal hormonal stuff that some of us are just bound to go thru..
Either way, I do hope that each & everyone with horrible side effects can get things straightened out.
But wanted to let the rest of the women know that NOT EVERYONE has these horrible side effects & it actually does work as promised for a lot of us.

I AM HORRIFIED AFTER READING ALL OF THESE! JUST TODAY SOMEONE TOLD ME THAT MY EXCESSIVE HAIR LOSS IS PROBABLY DUE TO THE IUD. I CAME HOME AND GOOGLED IT AND LANDED ON THIS SITE. I SERIOUSLY HAIR NOTICEABLE BALD SPOTS NOW. MY HAIR COMES OUT IN HAND FULLS ALL THE TIME ALL DAY. SHOWERS ARE A NIGHTMARE. THE SITE IN THE DRAIN IS NAUSEATING. WHEN I PULL MY HAIR BACK IT LOOKS LIKE I HAVE RECEDING HAIR LINE AND YOU CAN SEE MY SCALP THROUGH WHAT HAIR I HAVE LEFT. I HAD EXTREMELY THICK DULL HAIR BEFORE. I IGNORED THE OTHER SYMPTOMS AND FOCUSED ON THE HAIR LOSS THINKING IT WAS RELATED TO POST PARTUM AND STRESS.....LOOKS LIKE IT MAY BE THIS IUD THEY CALL MIRENA MAKING ME BALD. I AM CALLING MY OBGYN ON MONDAY.

Crazy things that I have, only enough started after I had the Mirena put in. Horrible itchy head, Horrible anal itching, (the Dr. said I did not have hemroids), itching all over, fingers swelling, Could all this be because of the Mirena? I guess we will find out if it clears up since I had it taken out yesterday.

I did not realize that about not having sex a week prior to removal. I had mine removed yesterday but I am pretty sure we did not have sex because it hurt to much. It must have been poking me in the stomach or side because that instantly felt better upon removal.I hate birth control because it always makes me hormonal but the only reason I agreed to the Mirena was because my Dr. said it would not do that. The very night that I had it in I was so sad, mad,etc.I have been pretty emotional for the 7 months that I have had it. I am hoping things will level off now!

Ok ladies, I'm not even sure where to start today. I posted earlier this month (June 8th) and finally got in for an appointment to get this thing removed 2 days ago. I refuse to refer to it by its name on this website anymore since whenever you do it is put in bold as if it is special so, from here on out I choose to call it that Evil Thing or ET. I have been so depressed since my appointment that I haven't felt like talking to anyone about anything much less about this, but I'm starting to come out of it today so, here goes. Things did not go well from the start since my doctor wasn't available for my appointment as she had been called away to the hospital to deliver a baby. Well, I'm a pretty flexible gal and I understand that although I don't want kids other people do so, I can share my doctor. I was OK with seeing someone else as long as they would remove this ET. Initially, it sounded like it would be no problem from what the nurse was saying, but then in walks this Mother Goose looking lady who starts in on me about how I haven't had it very long (3 months) and why would I want it out. So, I start to tell her all the problems I'm having. (Small recap: extreme daily cramps, increased appetite, decreased energy, significant mood changes, decrease interest in sex as well as uncomfortable/painful sex, acne, plus others) She proceeds to tell me how strange that it is that I'm having problems with cramps since this ET is supposed to make you have fewer cramps. So, I'm all well that's nice, but I never ever had cramps when I took pills (for 14 years) and I have literally had cramps every single day for the past 3 months. Based on that one thing alone I wanted the ET gone. Despite her skepticism she was agreeable to removing it, but then she asked me the question. The question I couldn't answer and the question that turned me upside down. Maybe I should have known this before going, but I didn't and certainly no one bothered to tell me. She asked when was the last time I'd had sex because it was very important that it had been more than a week ago due to the possibility of getting pregnant. Well despite my complete lack of interest in sex, at some point last week I threw my poor husband a bone and we had sex. Since I can no longer concentrate or focus or remember anything that goes on in my life because I have this ET in my body I couldn't remember exactly when that was. I even called my husband as sat there naked from the waist down and in a complete panic desperately hoping he could remember, but men don't remember ANYTHING!!!! Mother Goose said she thought I would be OK based on the time frame I had it narrowed down to, but tells me she had removed one before and a lady got pregnant who had had sex 3 days prior to removal. (I did know I was past 3 days, but the story did its job and scared me.) I asked her if she could give me a 100% certainty that I would not get pregnant if she removed it and she couldn't. Well, needless to say I still have the damn thing because I just can't take that risk. I have already had one accidental pregnancy while taking the pill and I just can't go through that again. I broke down. I had a complete meltdown in the office because it was supposed to be over. That day was supposed to be it. I was supposed to be rid of this ET and start to get on with my life and I felt like it was my fault because I couldn't remember, but NO it's not my fault because if it wasn't for the ET I would be able to remember things! Anyway, that's how my thoughts were going round and round. So, I start to explain more to Mother Goose about how this is a perfect example of how the ET has affected my moods. Well, once she sees this display she gets all concerned and starts asking me more questions and over and over again "so, this JUST started 3 months ago?" As if I was making it all up. As if I'm really depressed and have probably been so for some time and I'm using the ET as an excuse. WHATEVER!!! So, at this point I'm not sobbing anymore and I've flipped to really angry b****h mode because she was seriously pissing me off. She goes on and on with these depressive symptom questions and asking how stressed I am and finally I'm just like, look I'm a normal person with normal problems who knows how to deal with things, but I can't now because of this ET!!! She didn't say the word out loud, but I know she was on the verge of prescribing me an anti-depressant. She did say she had NEVER heard of the ET causing this (or any of the symptoms I listed for her) to happen but I could be her first. I was so worn out at this point I didn't even have the energy to educate her even though I felt like it was my job to do so for the sake of other women who might cross her path. She finally quit grilling me and then my absolute favorite part of the whole visit came when she leaned forward, patted my knee and said, "now, you know you're going to have to keep your sweetie off you for awhile." I'm 31 for goodness sake and married--I think my "sweetie" and I can abstain for a few more days. Plus, did you not just witness the meltdown I had when you told me you couldn't remove it today because we DID have sex--do I look like a moron to you? Good grief!!! Mother Goose lady had no idea how much danger she was in at that point, but I did well and restrained myself--mostly because I was just beat, I had nothing left. I go back for Take 2 on Monday. That appointment is again with my doctor--I hope she is actually available this time. Thanks for letting me vent--I needed it. Most importantly, if you are getting your IUD removed do not have sex a week prior to removal. Mother Goose says most doctors are good with no sex 5 days prior, but she feels safer with 7 days, personally I think they are all idiots! Take care everyone.

I am 29 yrs. of age. My experience with Mirena has been mostly bad. With any medication I usually try to see how it works for me and my body before reading into any web site. I don't want to pre-determine my side effects before they even happen! So, I didn't look up anything on this until I started having side effects of my own. And here's my story...
I got this thing put in right after the birth of my son in Feb. (MY 2ND BABY)My dr. told me it would be the best time to do it since everything was still fairly loosened up down there. I have to say that it really didn't hurt me to have it put in. I barely felt it. I went home with some minor bleeding and started cramping a bit. The next day I cramped a lot. Nothing that a menstrual cramp medication couldn't handle though. Next, I started gaining some weight. I checked on-line immediately to find out if weight gain was an issue. I found that many if not most of the women had some weight gain. Little did I know that weight gain was minor compared to my other symptoms.... I have had HAIR LOSS!!! I think I'm going bald. Ok I am over exaggerating, but seriously I lose handfuls of hair with each shower. I have gotten to the point where I just towel dry my hair and spray it with hair spray (kind of the messy look) I don't want to comb it and lose more hair. I have been very itchy in the vaginal area, and have had discharge also ( kind of wet and watery looking). Is my water breaking again??? lol I have read some of the stories about the mirena and decided that some are far fetched, but I really have to say that having these side effects for myself I realize what my "normal" is. My body is not agreeing with this at all. Even if it would level out after a few more months I don't even think it's worth the wonder! I have tried to stick it out just thinking I must be crazy and that these side effects are not from the birth control, but now I am realizing that I am crazy to leave this Evil thing in! I will be getting it taken out ASAP!

I am only 21 years old and I have an 11 month old. I got my Mirena inserted in March. (First let me say that Ian was 5 mo. old when I tried to get Mirena the first time and it came right back out after insertion... before I even put my pants back on....this should've been a sign to me but I was persistent and went back a month later after kegel exercising and nipple stimulation) Since then I have had a vaginal odor, discharge, difficulty reaching orgasm, severe headaches (which I used to never get), acne (which was also not a problem), back pain, body aches, weight gain, strong appetite, fatigue and depression. Today I googled UTI with Mirena because for the past 2 days I feel like I am starting to get a UTI, however, it is only for about 2 hours when I first wake up then throughout the day my symptoms disappear. Until I found this website I thought these symptoms were just post baby seeing as this is my first child and I am new at these things. My appetite for sex is still strong but b/c of the strange smell and lack of feeling (which wasn't like that directly after childbirth) it's just not the same. Also like a lot of other blogs I have read, I have taken a pregnancy test or two after the IUD was placed in because I have some symptoms that are familiar to pregnancy. A strange question I will ask is does anyone who has already had a child or several ever experience a feeling in the gut like that of the baby kicking? This was odd to me and something I did not want to feel for a good while (hince why I spent the amount of $ I did on Mirena). Which also brings up the point that now I am considering taking Mirena out, however it is going to suck paying for something I am not using plus the additional $ I am going to have to spend on new BC. And another question is are there any suggestions as to which BC has worked well for women who have tried IUD and weren't happy with it. I was on the pill when I got pregnant which makes me a little weary of trying that again. Thanks for all the knowledge I wish I would've found before I decided to get this thing in me. Hope to hear back. And good luck to all of you who have had worse symptoms than me, hopefully if I get this thing out now I won't have to go through some other symptoms.

Sorry people - had Mirena for a year now and have had absolutely no problems. The best thing I ever did infact. No periods, no side effects like with the pill, absolutely great. Sorry to hear that it's not like this for everyone but I am sure that there are many more people like me that have had great experiences. Good luck!

thyroid .I had to have mine removed.
MIRENA is the worst thing i ever tried.
Dont risk it,its not worth the medical problems you will get.

Thank you so much for this information. After a year of endless blood tests, specialists and other diagnostics with no answers I have been diagnosed with chronic fatigue to label a concoction of symptoms that include dizziness, extreme fatigue (I have been a runner daily for 8 years but can no longer run), regular 'infections' akin to my vagina being on fire, irregular pap smear, difficulty orgasming (previously never a concern) and so many of the other symptoms listed above that it feels like a checklist reading this amazing site. As I work in a hospital I have undertaken extensive review of medical journals to see if any clinical studies have identified concerns with the mirena - I couldn't find any and so have dismissed my symptoms as unrelated but have always had a gut feeling about it. From being extremely active and passionate about my work, I have had to scale back and back until I now work only three days and rest for the remainder. I can't thank you enough for validating my suspicion that the mirena might be the culprit - it's the only variable my husband and I can think of since the symptoms emerged. I'm going to get this stupid thing out of me as soon as possible.

I can't believe I've stumbled on this website. Until now my symptoms did not make sense to me.
I had my Mirena in 2005 after the birth of my son. My life has changed dramatically since then & I didn't put it together until now. I was plagued by nasty vaginal discharge from the start. Though my period stopped completely what replaced it was a terrible vaginal odor that no amount of washing, deodorant spray, etc will cure. It's a bacterial infection that will not leave me alone. I almost always have it. Before the Mirena I never heard of it. My sex drive & sensation is virtually none. I even went as far as having a female piercing as I read it increases sensitivity. This is upsetting as I've never had problems with odor, loss of sensitivity or inability to achieve orgasm. Along with this I've experienced a large weight gain, abdominal bloating, migraines, aching joints, decrease in vision, back pain, dizziness, exhaustion, increase in body hair growth yet limp thinning hair, & fibroids.

I have an appointment in July to get this thing out & wish I had been more informed of the side effects.

I've had mirena in me for almost 3 months.and am now realizing where my constant back and knee pain is coming from. When I went in, I asked my doctor for the copper IUD w. no hormones, my sister has it and has had no problems, and he immediately recommended the Mirena. He said he had concerns with the copper IUD w heavy bleeding and that Mirena was safe. It felt forceful, I wonder what kind of kickback these doctors are getting for inserting it. I also had very heavy bleeding for the first 10 dys and nothing since. I feel bloated occasionally and definitely can relate to the watery discharge, I though i peed my pants:) I also feel confused often.
I am currently breastfeeding and feel bad for not doing my research before having this inserted. I'm going to supplement until this thing is out. Good luck everyone. I'm glad there's a way we can educate each other on these things, since it seems our doctors aren't. thanks.

Well just like many of you I am glad that I am not going crazy. I had the Mirena inserted in April and have had sever bloating continous brown "periods" to small for a tampon and extremely sore breast. When I went to my GYN and discussed bc I had said that I had heard about the Mirena and asked her what she thought. She gave me the I think it would be the best form for you.She said the first few months would be irregular periods but then they would either be very light or none at all. Well they have been light but they go on for 2 weeks. I am also experiencing fatigue and dizziness and mood swings. If I didn't know any better I would think I was pregnant. I am unable to focus well on things. Feeling absent minded klike I was during my pregnancies. I have gained some weight and I and constantly bloated. My doctor told me that I would experience some acne which fortunately has been minimal but that there were very little side effects!! Bull!! I think I am going to scheduled my removal ASAP

My side effects are severe bloating and complete lack of sex drive....at first I bled for days and days and called to have it removed and was told to wait a couple of weeks. I waited a couple of weeks and the bleeding was dimishing so I left it in. Then the light spotting continued and continued and so I made an appointment to have it removed. The nurse told me it was normal and that it would stop eventually and I may not have a period at all. I agreed to leave it in. She was correct in saying that things would even themselves out eventually but I still have the bloating and it's been 2 years now and I have a very light irritating period that is mainly brown spotting but it lasts for seven days straight and puts a real damper on the sex life that already has issues because I just don't feel like having sex. I don't feel attractive with that thing up there...it's uncomfortable and I feel pain in both ovaries on occasion. It's convenient in that it keeps me from getting pregnant but it's really sucky for the relationship when the man wants to do it all the time and the woman has no desire whatsoever. I find ways to avoid having sex or doing anything remotely sexual. It's crazy, I was never like this before. I like the fact that you don't have to remember anything as far as bc is concerned but they need to be honest with people when they recommend it. It has more side effects than birth control pills. I'm now starting to have chest pains and I've decided I think I'm going to have it removed and use condoms from now on. That's the only thing that keeps me from having issues. I just don't think our bodies were meant for all of these chemicals and I wish the doctors would get that through their heads and stop telling us we're crazy when we're not. We know our bodies better than anyone, you can't tell me this thing isn't causing problems in my body that I never had before. I have put off getting it removed because I know they are going to try to convince me to keep it and I don't feel like arguing but I'm to the point where I really want my life and my body back. I also want that extra 20 lbs to come off as I haven't been able to lose it since I had my daughter 2 years ago and had this thing inserted. So anyway, I'm with the rest of you with the crazy symptoms. Oh yea, I left off the fatigue and headaches that I get the week before I start my period. And oh yea, that mood swings are ridiculous. I hope someone is reading this. It's for real people.

Hi ladies! I have had the mirena for 2 years and just had it removed 2 days ago. I originally had it put in because of heavy bleeding/clotting. I am 42 yrs old and have endometriosis. When I first got that thing implanted I thought it was great. I thought, wow, no more heavy periods. Well let me tell you, I would rather have a heavy period than to have dark brown spotting every day of my life! All of my underwear are stained. Besides having that yucky brown spotting everyday I also started experiencing severe right ovary pain and lower back pain. My lower ab was always tender. I suffered from anxiety and insomnia. As soon as the mirena was taken out (it did NOT hurt at all at removal) my lower back pain was gone. The achiness in my pelvic/lower ab felt relieved. It was like my uterus cried out rejoicefully and thanked me for taking that foreign object out. The doctor showed it to me and it is BIG. I couldn't believe I had that thing inside my body for 2 years! I slept really good the past 2 nights and was able to sleep on my stomach which I have not been able to because of the pelvic tenderness. I have had steady bleeding as soon as it was removed and its healthy red not brown like it was for 2 years. I am so glad I had it removed and I wish you all good luck with your decisions.

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The board is not censored to prevent links and such and is IMO easier to follow and navigate

I had my Mirena removed 4 1/2 weeks ago and I am still experiencing dizziness. I had posted previously that it was gone 2 days after the Mirena was removed but the dizziness has come back. Just thought I would let everyone know.

update, it's out! Insurance does not pay for the removal. I fell better. It's been out two days and i have lost two pounds! Face is not clear but I am sure it will take awhile. It took about 24 hrs for the bleeding (period to kick in but thanks to reading post on this site I was prepared. I have lost two pounds in two days. (I do exercise and could not lose a pond for the month it was in) Thanks God the mirena from Hell is out!!! I feel much better emotionally also!

I too had have unpleasant side effects. Strange smell and now soreness . Gp wondered if it was herpes or shingles and am due a test today But am 150% certain of my partner and myself? I wondered about Marina coil as ve had an infection after insertion and bled since insertion in January only last month bleeding as been intermittent, every day for 4 months! strange smell too which thought was my imagination. Not mentioned to gp as thought he would think me odd!

This is the first time I've seen this site. I'm so glad I'm not crazy-Jeez. I am a very clean person--but since I've had the mirena( since11/07) I've been rethinking my decision. I get the brown weird stuff too. I just went to the doc about a month ago cause I have crazy discharge- sometimes it's like water and then randomly it'll be like rubber cement-ya know- when you roll it around your fingers.Hello-gross!! Also my lil lady looks like she's a baby bluish color almost(sorry if that's gross and graphic) The doc said that I have cells in my vagina that come out when your allergic to something. It can't be laundry detergent, dryer sheets,lack of water,poor diet,std(i haven't even had sex since I had my son cause I'm embarrassed about my va-j-j. It's coming out SOON!

20 pound weight gain in 4 years-ok maybe not all due to Mirena, but I am active and eat right. My mood swings were terrible since day one, but I thought it was just the stresses of life. Constant migraines-that no pain reliever cured-CAT scans discovered NADA. Anxiety and depression that I never experienced prior to insertion. Low energy and fatigue. Recurring BV-this is what helped me to decide to remove it. I loved the fact that I had no period-although it just isn't natural. Sex drive was ok, but no where near what it was.

HAD MIRENA PUT IN 06/22/2008. TAKEN OUT TODAY - 06/25/2008. THESE COUPLE DAYS WERE THE WORST IN MY LIFE - PREGNANCY AND CHILDBIRTH SEEMS LIKE NOTHING COMPARING TO HUUUGEEE AND CONSTANT: HEADACHE, NAUSEA, INSOMNIA (NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE, AT LEAST NOT SO SEVERE), BACK PAIN, CRAMPS, LEGS AND HANDS SWOLLEN SO BAD I COULDN'T TAKE OFF MY WEDDING RING (IT WAS LOOSE BEFORE!!!) OR PUT MY SHOES ON... AND BLEEDING. BAD...
NOW THAT S.H.I.T. IS OUT AND AFTER 4 HOURS I FEEL 100% BETTER - ALMOST ALL SYMPTOMS ARE GONE!

I had Mirena inserted on June 19th at my 6 week follow up from giving birth. He presented it like it was the best contraception to get, so I thought "Why not?" I had it inserted right then and it didn't quite go in right the first time, so he tried again. And, yes, it is quite uncomfortable! Well, he thought it was in there correct (99% sure) but decided to send my for an ultrasound the next day to be 100% sure. So I had some cramps the rest of the day and night, nothing I couldn't stand, and went for my US the next day. Sure enough, the IUD had been pushed through my uterine wall and was now somewhere in my pelvic cavity roaming free. I went for a CT Scan because they couldn't find it with the US, and then had to get it laparoscopically removed the same day. So much for trying to be cost efficient with the Mirena! I had some cramps that lasted a few days and continue to have some slight vaginal discharge, but at least it's out. Of course my doc said that was the first time he had encountered the Mirena going through the uterine wall. (Great to hear) Depo worked great for me before, and that's what I'm doing now.

Well Hello everyone. I am glad I came across this site, because I thought I was going crazy...I am 35 and just had my first child March 2007. I have had the Mirena for a year now. I went to the Dr. a few weeks ago and told her I was feeling sharp pains once and a while, but other than that I felt fine. She ordered an ultra sound and they found some small cysts...so I go back for a recheck 6 weeks from that date to see if it's gone away?? That did not make sense to me....she said I also had a yeast infection (which I have never had), and pre-cancerous cells which she is biopsying next week. What I thought was completely unrelated was my back pain-sharp siatica pains and my numbness in legs, feet, arms, and hands...my friend told me I should see a neurologist...and I almost started down that road....until now...I think I will have the Mirena out first and see what happens. I also have some twitching in my fingers. I will let you know how I feel after it's out. Oh and Mood Swings....I always have this feeling that I don't know what to do....everything seems like too much!

This is an update to an earlier post. I have decided to have my Mirena removed, appt is 7/2. Can't wait. Couple more side effects I have but didn't connect until reading this board are: tension like headaches, anxiety, breast from D to DD, and slurred speech occasionally. Slightly Slurred speech is the big one I had googled it before, but never thought it could be connected to the IUD.. wow.. this thing is like poison.

One week post removal:
first two days frequent diarrhea, I believe due to water retention being released, NO pimples, day 4 heavy bleeding with large clots, still spotting, bloated stomach gone, breast not heavy, mood 100% improved!

Having the Mirena taken out next Tuesday and i cant wait, been feeling really tearful, moody and depressed. Pains in lower abdomen getting slightly worse. Will keep you all posted on post removal developments.

Hi, I had mirena placed two months ago after giving birth to my 3rd child. I wish I would've seen this site before I make my decision of using Mirena. My first symptom was chest pain and it was followed by heart palpitations, lower back pain, dizziness, heart burn, etc...... I asked my obgyn and he said "IS NOT MIRENA" the cause of your symptoms. I had to see a Cardiologist because I felt that I was going to die in any minute from a heart attack. My Cardiologist said you are to young to have heart problems. I had an ekg, blood work, echo, and stress test done. nothing seems to be wrong with me "Medical terms" you are fine. But I knew something was wrong, I got my own diagnosis "MIRENA" was the cause of all my symptoms. I have it removed about two weeks ago and I finally feel normal again. No more side effects. Please ladies do your own research really good before using this or any other medication that your doctor gives you and please DON'T trust your Dr. 100%, they are not always right. Good luck to all of you.